(Lewis, Iowa) –  The Wallace Learning Center, Armstrong Memorial Research Farm, near Lewis (53020 Hitchcock Ave.), will host an “Innovation to Profit Series,” on February 13th, from 10:30-a.m. until 2-p.m.  Those in attendance can expect to: receive up-to-date research opportunities to boost your profitability, productivity and sustainability; Engage with farmers to discuss challenges and opportunities in your area; and Get to know your regionally-based Iowa Soybean Association agronomists, conservation agronomists and producer services team.

The morning session will cover “Soybean Seeding Rates & Biologicals.” The presentation by Drew Clemmensen, ISA research agronomist, and Anthony Martin, ISA data analyst, will dig into the data from ISA seeding rate, long term cover crop and biological trials. Discover how seeding populations performed in different management systems to optimize seeding rates and cost savings. Attendees will take a deeper dive into the biological trial data and how it could impact local farmers.

The afternoon session is with regard to “Southwest Iowa Conservation,” and features Joseph Wuebker, ISA conservation agronomist. Crop producers will learn where they can start with conservation practices. You’ll also hear from local agronomists on the benefits, timeline planning and cost share opportunities for conservation practices specific to your area. Discussion pertaining to planting and scouting tips will follow, with fellow Southwest Iowa farmers and agronomists.

(Photo: Iowa Soybean Association / Joclyn Bushman)

The final topic is “Enhancing Nitrogen Recommendations using Data,” presented by Mitch Baum, Iowa State University postdoctoral researcher.  The Iowa Nitrogen Initiative (INI) is a public-private partnership that works directly with Iowa farmers to conduct nitrogen rate research on their farm fields. In 2023, 270 trials were conducted, a 400% increase from the pilot year in 2022. In this presentation, INI researchers and staff will give a short overview of the project and present yield response data from the 2023 trials, ending with an update on decision support tool development and trials of interest for 2024.

Register today to reserve your spot. And, if you are looking to continue your education and expand your knowledge, Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) credits for the event are currently pending.