By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, along with the ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab, will organize an educational event called ISU Hay Day. This program is specially designed for hay producers to improve their farming practices and equipment management. The event will take place on July 13, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Field Extension Education Laboratory in Boone.
The main aim of the event is to help farmers maintain healthy crops and ensure that their equipment works efficiently. Healthy plants and reliable machines are essential for successful hay production. The program is free of cost, making it accessible to all interested farmers.
The morning sessions will focus on plant health and alfalfa stand management. Farmers will learn how to evaluate crop productivity, identify pest problems, and avoid common planting mistakes. This knowledge will help them improve crop quality and yield. Another key topic will be the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, also known as drones, for monitoring field conditions. These tools can help farmers quickly assess plant health and detect issues early.
After lunch, the focus will shift to equipment maintenance, especially balers. Proper maintenance is necessary to keep machines running smoothly during busy seasons. The session will also include a review of drone images collected earlier in the day, helping farmers connect field observations with practical decisions.
Luke Fuhrer, precision ag engineer with the ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab, emphasized the importance of equipment care. “Knowing your equipment is invaluable to keeping it running well,” said Luke Fuhrer. “When you make hay, this equipment is run multiple times throughout the year — that kind of use demands regular attention and maintenance to avoid costly downtime during the season.”
Farmers are encouraged to register in advance to help with lunch arrangements, although walk-ins are also welcome.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Hay & Forage