Editor’s note: Ron Litterer has assumed the office of National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) president. He shares his thoughts about the opportunities and challenges corn growers face over the next 12 months.

There’s no doubt the last year has been a watershed for corn growers. We answered the market’s demand to produce enough corn to supply the world with both food and fuel. In doing so, record production and strong prices helped invigorate both agriculture and rural America.

After such an amazing year, it might be tempting for us to sit back and catch our breath. But this is not the time to be complacent. We’ve overcome many obstacles to get where we are today, but we still face many long-term challenges.