Soybean Sustainability Metrics: Preliminary Results from Illinois Field Trials

This multi-year project funded by the Illinois Soybean Association checkoff program is assessing soil health, water quality and climate footprint metrics across the state’s growing regions (south, central, north) and cropping systems (soy-corn, double-crop wheat-soy with corn rotations). It will help inform practice-based recommendations that protect soil health and water quality, as well as provide insights farmers can use as they explore ecosystem credit programs.

Dr. Andrew Margenot presents data collection information and preliminary findings from two growing seasons of Illinois field trials.

This presentation was recorded at the Field Advisor Forum on January 16, 2025 in Champaign, IL.

Dr. Andrew Margenot is a soil scientist and associate professor at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He joined the Illinois agricultural scene in 2017, where he leads a 40 plus research team that evaluates nutrient biogeochemistry in our state and the greater North Central US region. Dr. Margenot’s research focuses on phosphorus management, soil health, and carbon crediting, with the goal of supporting efficient use of nutrients for crop productivity that support environmental quality.

About the Author: Kelsey Litchfield

Kelsey Litchfield is the Agronomic Outreach Specialist for the Illinois Soybean Association. In her role, she manages Field Advisor's media platforms and assists the agronomy team with events and field days. A native of Rio, IL, Kelsey earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in 2017 where she double majored in Agricultural Communications and Broadcast Journalism.