(March 31, 2007)--The government says between demand for ethanol and strong exports, this will be the biggest year for corn planting in the US since the 1940's.

The Agriculture Department says corn planting will rise 15 percent this year over last to more than 90 million acres.

The USDA says farmers are switching over from soybeans, cotton and rice.

The figures are based on inquiries regarding planting intentions made of more than 86,000 farmers during the first two weeks of March.

Texas corn production totaled $561 million in 2006, according to the USDA.

Experts say that figure could increase dramatically this year because of the jump in demand.

"I expect to see a corn crop we haven't seen in a while," said Dr. Travis Miller, Extension program leader for soil and crop sciences.

"There's rains in the Plains (region) today and the (Central Texas) Blacklands. If people have got it planted, that's perfect timing."

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