By Andi Anderson
Logan McCrea has been named the new field agronomist for Iowa State University Extension and Outreach in South-Central Iowa.
Based out of the Mahaska County office, he now serves nine counties, helping farmers, landowners, and agricultural retailers with crop management and education.
A Monroe County native, McCrea grew up on a family farm and always knew he wanted a future in agriculture. He completed multiple industry internships and is currently pursuing his master’s degree in agronomy to expand his skills and knowledge.
Rebecca Vittetoe, another extension agronomist, welcomed McCrea to the team, highlighting his deep local knowledge and passion for helping the community. McCrea believes that understanding diverse farming needs is key. “I enjoy being in the field and answering all types of questions,” he said.
McCrea has several summer programs already planned. These include a herbicide roundtable with weed specialist Wesley Everman and crop staging presentations with Vittetoe to help identify corn and soybean growth stages.
A Crop Scout School will also take place in mid-May at the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm, teaching participants how to check stands, identify weeds and pests, and improve herbicide and insecticide use.
Another focus for McCrea is helping producers understand new herbicide labeling requirements linked to the Endangered Species Act. He plans to meet with farmers directly to explain what steps are needed now and in the future.
McCrea also wants to support young and new farmers, especially those preparing to take over family farms. With a high number of older farmers in Iowa, McCrea sees this as a chance to help ease the transition to a new generation.
In his free time, McCrea enjoys helping on his family farm, attending Cyclone games, and refereeing football.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, General