Iowa Ag Connection - Crop Management Clinic Provides Training in Drastically Impacted Season

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Crop Management Clinic Provides Training in Drastically Impacted Season
Iowa Ag Connection - 06/20/2018

With Iowa's planting season drastically impacted by cold and wet weather earlier this spring, now more than ever it is important to make sure crops are efficiently managed to ensure the best yields possible.

people kneeling in field scouting crops.Many factors, including weather, pests, crop prices, input costs and crop growth and development, can have negative impacts on crops, potentially harming yields during harvest. Adequately prepare for this season by brushing up on crop management skills with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach researchers, management specialists and field agronomists.

Iowa State University's Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL) will host the Summer 2018 Crop Management Clinic, July 12 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The clinic provides interactive workshops and discussions to give patrons the best tools, resources and means-tested strategies to make the best crop management decisions in their corn or soybean fields.

"We have many demonstration plots that are set up to exemplify current research outcomes and mirror different management practices. Seeing some of these issues and management solutions in person is invaluable," said Warren Pierson, coordinator of the Field Extension Educational Laboratory. "We encourage participants to go into these plots and dig or cut plants up to get a better idea of what is happening. Integrated crop management is important to make crop production and management decisions that are economical, and don't result in negative consequences on the environment, and the future use of management tools."

This event is open to anyone who has an interest in crop production and management. ISU Extension and Outreach will have a variety of agronomic professionals teaching the importance of water quality, pest and nutrient management and factors affecting yield that can occur in corn and soybean fields. As an intermediate level course, some of the topics covered will be geared toward crop management for future seasons, such as nematode management, full season weed control, and hybrid and seeding rate decisions. Other topics will benefit the attendees this summer and fall with decisions about fungicide applications, nitrogen management decisions, and soil health and indicators of soil health.

For a complete list of topics and instructors, visit the clinic website at www.aep.iastate.edu/feel/management.

FEEL is located at 1928 240th St. near Boone. Plan to arrive at 8:30 a.m. for registration with opening comments beginning at 8:55 a.m.

Advance registration is required to attend this event. Early registration is $125 and must be completed before midnight, June 29. Late registration is $150 until midnight, July 6. Registration includes refreshments, lunch and course materials. Additional information and online registration is available at http://www.aep.iastate.edu/feel/management. For any additional questions please visit the website above and take advantage of this growing season in crop management. This clinic qualifies for six continuing education credits for Iowa Certified Crop Advisers, subject to board approval, in the following categories: 1.0 nutrient management, 2.5 pest management, 1.5 soil and water management, 1.0 crop management.

For assistance with registration, receipts, cancellation or questions on the status of your registration contact ANR Program Services at 515-294-6429 or anr@iastate.edu.

A Field Diagnostic Clinic will take place the day prior, July 11, at FEEL. Attendees of this session receive a 50 percent discount on the purchase of "A Farmers Guide to Corn Diseases" discount (a total cost of $15). Visit www.aep.iastate.edu/feel/diagnostic if interested in attending the Field Diagnostic Clinic.

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