By Erin Hodgson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach and the ISU College of Agriculture and Life Sciences will host the 36th Annual Integrated Crop Management Conference, set for Dec. 10–11 at Prairie Meadows in Altoona. This premier event will provide crop production professionals with the latest information, cutting-edge research updates and tools to prepare for 2026.
“The ICM Conference has always been a great opportunity for farmers, industry, ag retailers, agronomists and educators to network with each other and interact with their university specialists,” said Erin Hodgson, professor and extension entomologist at Iowa State University. “We are excited to offer a great program full of new information to prepare for 2026, including a strong slate of invited speakers. This year we are trying something new and starting each day with a keynote presentation.”
This year’s conference features 33 workshops covering crops, pests, nutrients and soil and water management topics. Hodgson noted that Prairie Meadows offers updated facilitates, an on-site hotel and short distances between sessions, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for attendees. Attendees can also expect to enjoy time to network, visit with sponsors and view exhibits.
Invited speakers
- Ashleigh Faris, assistant professor of entomology and plant pathology at Oklahoma State University, will discuss integrated pest management for corn leafhopper and corn stunt disease.
- Laura Lindsey, professor of soybean and small grains at The Ohio State University, will talk about whether to prioritize corn or soybean planting in the spring.
- Bill Chism, chair of the Endangered Species Committee of the Weed Science Society of America, will provide information on the label changes occurring as a result of the Endangered Species Act and implications for management.
- A panel of experts will discuss and field questions about the Endangered Species Act. Panel members are Bill Chism, WSSA; Mike Kelly, Nationwide Agribusiness; Wesley Everman, Iowa State University; and Gretchen Paluch, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
Source : iastate.edu