ISA plans Farmer Research tour

     The unveiling of localized soybean production data, tips for managing new and emerging pests and strategies for optimizing soil health and fertility to boost yields will be the focus of Iowa Soybean Association’s (ISA) 2019 Farmer Research Tour.

     Departing from the traditional format of one centrally located annual conference, ISA is taking the show on the road to engage farmers and industry partners. The stop closest to Monticello will be Feb. 12 at the Hotel at Kirkwood Center in Cedar Rapids.

     Other tour stops include Storm Lake, Feb. 5 at King’s Pointe Resort; and Ames, Feb. 7 at the Gateway Hotel.

     Chris Gaesser, an ISA member from Corning, said the research conferences are a can’t-miss for farmers seeking a competitive edge during a challenging economy.

     “The sharing, comparing and discussion of on-farm soybean production research data is invaluable for farmers wanting to make the most of every acre,” said Gaesser, a frequent conference attendee. “While the information is always valuable, this year’s approach promises to be even more effective as farmers will benefit from research trials conducted in closer proximity to where they live and farm.”

     Each conference location will feature the ISA Analytics, Environmental Programs and Services and the On-Farm Network teams presenting results from 2018 projects.

     Roundtables and breakout sessions will facilitate the tailoring of topics to each region and the local needs of farmers. Other topics will be tailored to fit each location’s regional needs.

     “This new approach to our annual conference will save farmers some travel and meeting expenses while delivering presentation topics that address more localized challenges and opportunities,” says Ed Anderson, ISA senior director of research.

     Just as important as producing soybeans is finding a market for them. Al Kluis, commodity trader, chartist, author and producer of the Al Kluis Report, will keynote all conferences, helping attendees identify sale opportunities during a period of volatile markets.

     “We are proud to share with farmers the data and information that will help them to be more profitable and competitive in the short and long-term,” Anderson says. “This tour showcases research that has been accomplished with soybean checkoff dollars and other matching grants and corporate partner funds.

     Registration includes lunch and refreshments. Farmers participating in ISA research trials can attend at no cost. The cost is $25 for ISA farmer members not participating in research trials with ISA. Non-members are welcome to attend for $50. Continuing education credits will be available. To register and learn more about each conference, go to www.iasoybeans.com.