Grow Your Expertise At The 2026 Soil Fertility And Nutrient Management Training

Jan 06, 2026

By Christine Charles and Teresa Crook et.al

Farmers and agribusinesses know the key to obtaining increased yields and profitability start with good soil fertility and a sound nutrient management plan. Join Michigan State University Extension for a Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management Training on February 5, 2026.

The event serves as a follow-up and expansion of the Soil Fertility and Nutrient Management Training held in 2024. That training featured Kurt Steinke, MSU Soil Fertility Specialist, with a team of MSU Extension Educators and focused on building a base level of information on nutrient management basics.

Joined by a team of speakers from MSU Extension, Steinke returns to headline the 2026 program. The workshop will offer intermediate and technical level information beneficial to farmers and agribusiness professionals who offer crop nutrient advice.

Description of individual sessions

Nitrogen – Unpredictable is one word that describes both nitrogen and the weather. In this session, learn about strategies to implement and concerns to address with the uncertainties of nitrogen.
Nutrient Interactions – Learn how nutrient interactions influence crop uptake and what that means for your farm.

Source : msu.edu

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.