By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University (ISU) is set to showcase a wide range of agricultural research, innovative technologies, and farmer-focused resources during the 2026 Farm Progress Show, scheduled for September 1 to 3 near Boone, Iowa. The exhibit will provide farmers, agricultural retailers, and visitors with opportunities to interact directly with researchers, specialists, and extension professionals.
The university's exhibit will focus on helping producers make informed decisions through science-based tools and practical solutions. Visitors will be able to learn about emerging technologies, current production challenges, and management practices designed to improve farm productivity and sustainability.
One of the key topics featured will be artificial intelligence in agriculture. Experts will demonstrate a web-based application that helps identify pests, diseases, and weeds common across the Midwest. This technology aims to assist producers in making timely and accurate management decisions.
Additional exhibits will address crop disease management through specialized decision-support tools. Farmers will also have access to resources focused on farm well-being and stress management for farm families, highlighting the importance of both mental and physical health in agricultural operations.
Horticulture specialists will share information on vegetable production, plant and insect diagnostics, and turfgrass management. Research involving soybeans will also be showcased, including the use of plant stress sensors and robotics that can help improve crop monitoring and production efficiency.
Nitrogen management will be another major focus area. Visitors can learn about the N-FACT (Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Consultation Tool), which helps producers make fertilizer decisions based on research and field conditions. Conservation topics such as prairie strips and pollinator habitats will also be highlighted for their role in improving water quality and supporting beneficial insects.
The exhibit will feature information on mushroom cultivation as both a hobby and a potential supplemental farm enterprise. Weather-related resources, including tools from the Iowa Environmental Mesonet and precipitation reporting networks, will provide valuable data for agricultural decision-making.
Jay Harmon, Associate Dean in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and Director for Agriculture and Natural Resources with ISU Extension and Outreach, emphasized the value of connecting directly with producers. He said, “We’re always excited to exhibit at the Farm Progress Show and showcase topics that matter to the farmers attending. Some of our displays cover issues farmers are already dealing with, while others might introduce something they haven’t thought about yet. Our faculty and staff always enjoy hearing what’s on farmers’ minds — what's important to them and what they need to succeed. We’re here to serve, and we hope you’ll stop by, even if it’s just for ice cream and a visit.”
Several Iowa State-affiliated departments and research centers will participate in the exhibit, demonstrating the university's commitment to advancing agriculture through research, education, and outreach. Visitors can find the Iowa State University exhibit at the corner of Seventh Street and Central Avenue during the Farm Progress Show.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education