Advancing Ag Research: Updates from ISA Check-off Funded Projects
Maintaining strong connections with research collaborators is a top priority at the Illinois Soybean Association. In this report, we provide progress updates from four research initiatives carried out in partnership with Southern Illinois University and the University of Illinois.
Exploring Cover Crops as a SCN Management Tool
Soybean cyst nematode poses a significant threat to soybean yields, and despite previous management successes, it has adapted to resistance. Researchers, supported by the Illinois Soybean Association, are investigating the potential of cover crops as a tool to mitigate SCN damage.
Reminder: Submit Soybean Samples for Stem Pest Survey
Dr. Nick Seiter and his team will carry out dectes stem borer counts in soybean fields across Illinois this fall. These counts, beginning during the R7-R8 growth stages, aim to gather valuable data on this stem pest and contribute to improved management strategies.
New Grazing Cover Crops Checklist Now Available!
Jennifer Jones, Illinois Soybean Association Research Agronomist, discusses the importance of integrating livestock into cropping systems to enhance soil health. Jones highlights the benefits livestock bring such as nutrient distribution and increased soil organic matter.
Illinois Soybean Association Doubles Soybean Production Research Projects for FY24
The Illinois Soybean Board and Soybean Production Committee funded 16 research projects in the new fiscal year addressing practical soybean-related topics such as cover crops, waterhemp resistance, double crop soybeans, and more, to bring valuable insights to Illinois farmers through improved researcher engagement on ILSoyAdvisor.com.
Farmers and Ag Professionals Invited to Contribute to Dectes Stem Borer Survey This Fall
Dr. Nick Seiter and his team will carry out dectes stem borer counts in soybean fields across Illinois this fall. These counts, beginning during the R7-R8 growth stages, aim to gather valuable data on this stem pest, potentially contributing to improved management strategies.
Don’t Forget: Join the Second Annual FFA Water Testing Challenge!
Participate in the ongoing Second Annual FFA Water Testing Challenge, ending on October 13th! FFA chapters will develop and test hypotheses about nitrogen movement and potential loss from various production agriculture field settings while learning about the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy.
The People Behind the Platform
Stephanie Porter and Kelsey Litchfield oversee ILSoyAdvisor.com, the go-to agronomic resource by the Illinois Soybean Association. Discover the process behind reviewing and updating timely and relevant information on a weekly basis, specifically tailored for farmers.
What the Future Holds for Illinois’ Variety Trials
Jennifer Jones, a research agronomist at the Illinois Soybean Association, emphasizes the importance of third-party soybean variety trials and collaboration between crop associations, seed companies, and university extension. These trials drive innovation and progress in the soybean industry, with crop associations, seed companies, and university extension playing crucial roles in their success.
From Minnesota Farm Boy to Plant Breeder Supporting Specialty Soybean Varieties and African Food Stability
After retiring in December 2022, Dr. Brian Diers is excited to focus more time working with plant breeders in Africa to help them develop soybean varieties adapted to the diverse environments there.
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