By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will host a Strip-Till Field Day on July 30 at the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm in Crawfordsville.
The event offers farmers a chance to see different strip-till bars in action and learn about soil health and conservation practices.
“Each year, Iowa sees more acres adopting strip-tillage,” said Rebecca Vittetoe, ISU extension field agronomist. “This event helps raise awareness of strip-till benefits, like reduced erosion, improved soil health, better water quality, and compatibility with cover crops.”
Participants will observe multiple strip-till machines during live demonstrations on wheat residue. Supporting ag industry partners will also have static equipment displays for attendees to explore.
The event will feature two identical demo sessions — one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Morning registration begins at 8:30 a.m., with field demos from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. During lunch, Levi Powell of ISU’s Digital Ag Innovation Lab will speak on “Being Successful with Strip-Till.”
Afternoon registration opens at 12:30 p.m., with demos from 2 to 4 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to pre-register online by July 23 to ensure enough meals and space for everyone.
The event will take place just before the National Strip-Tillage Conference in Iowa City (July 31–Aug. 1), though both events are separate.
The field day is free and offers 2.5 Soil and Water CCA credits. It is supported by ISU Extension, NC SARE, local conservation districts, and numerous equipment sponsors. Signs will direct parking at 3115 Louisa-Washington Road.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education