By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University's Horticulture Research Station in Ames will host the 2025 Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day on Wednesday, Aug. 20.
Now in its eighth year, the event is a collaboration between Iowa State University and Practical Farmers of Iowa. It offers farmers a unique opportunity to explore weed management tools and practices designed for both row crops and specialty crops.
“This event is in the top tier of educational field days in our region,” said Dan Fillius, horticulture and commercial vegetable field specialist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “I’ve attended in the past and have been impressed with the assortment of cultivation demonstrations on display.”
The event begins with a morning exposition and tradeshow, where attendees can view weeding tools, interact with manufacturers from the U.S., Europe, and Japan, and network with other farmers. Trade booths will feature agricultural supplies and support services.
Educational sessions include topics such as Cultivation 101 and stale seedbedding techniques, aimed at helping farmers start or improve mechanical weeding. Walk-behind tractors and hand tools will also be showcased for vegetable growers.
A complimentary lunch will be provided at noon. The afternoon includes live field demonstrations of robotic cultivators and belly-mounted tractors operating on corn, beets, and brassicas.
Manufacturers presenting tools include Buffalo/Henke, Treffler, Garford, Bayshore Sales, T&H Cultivators, Unverferth, Tilmor, Small Farm Works, BCS, and Farm-ng.
Registration is $85. Walk-ins are allowed, but early registration is encouraged to ensure access to lunch and materials. To register, contact Crystal Stilman at crystal@thelandconnection.org or 217-840-2128.
The station is located at 55519 170th Street, Ames, Iowa.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education