By Brent Pringnitz and Joshua Michel
The 2024 Crop Advantage meetings will give producers a solid foundation of current research-based crop production information to help make smart, informed decisions for their farming operation.
The meetings are an opportunity for farmers and crop advisers to hear current research and crop production information from Iowa State University. Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists will travel to 12 locations around Iowa from Jan. 3-30, providing updated management options and recommendations on crop production issues facing Iowa growers.
Meetings include continuing education credits for Certified Crop Advisers and pesticide applicator recertification. All sites offer private pesticide applicator continuing instruction as well, for an additional fee.
“This program series allows Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists to meet with farmers across the state. We’re excited to provide the quality, in-person education farmers have come to expect,” said Josh Michel, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach.
Over 1,500 individuals attended one of the Crop Advantage meetings across Iowa in 2023, representing all 99 Iowa counties and surrounding states. Approximately 85% of attendees said information from Crop Advantage would likely save them between $5 and $20 per acre.
“Our goal is always to prepare producers to manage potential issues when they arise, or even before they arise, by sharing the most up-to-date scientific knowledge from Iowa State University researchers,” said Michel. “Each location’s program is unique as content is driven by local needs and production issues.”
Program topics vary by location and are selected for regional issues. Topics on this year’s agenda include crop market outlooks for 2024, nutrient management updates, soybean gall midge, climate outlooks, corn and soybean disease management updates, weed management issues and many more. For locations, times and program details visit www.aep.iastate.edu/cas.
Early registration for each location is $75; late registration made fewer than seven days prior to the meeting, or on site, is $100. Registration includes lunch, refreshment breaks and CCA credits. Online registration and additional information are available at www.aep.iastate.edu/cas. For more information, contact ANR Program Services at 515-294-6429, or anr@iastate.edu, or contact your regional ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist.
2024 meeting dates and locations
- Jan. 3 – Sheldon.
- Jan. 4 – Storm Lake.
- Jan. 5 – Mason City.
- Jan. 10 – Ankeny.
- Jan. 11 – Burlington.
- Jan. 16 – Cedar Falls.
- Jan. 18 – Atlantic.
- Jan. 19 – Davenport.
- Jan. 23 – Okoboji.
- Jan. 24 – Templeton.
- Jan. 25 – Coralville.
- Jan. 30 – Le Mars.
Source : iastate.edu