Understanding Surfactants: A Key Partner for Effective Weed Control
Herbicides require specific surfactants to achieve optimal performance. Why does this matter? In this blog, IL Soy Envoy Karen Corrigan explains how the right surfactant can enhance an herbicide's effectiveness in controlling targeted weeds. Using the correct surfactant can prevent many herbicide failures.
Crop/Livestock Integration In Practice: Farms Share Their Experiences
During this field day in Iroquois County, the integration of crops and livestock will be showcased, highlighting the grazing of crop residues, cover crops, and annual forages. Host farmers will demonstrate how livestock integration operates on their farms and discuss its benefits for both soil health and the balance sheet.
Does Late Planting Mean Delayed Yields?
The 2024 planting season has been marked by significant variability, especially in planting dates. This raises the question: should soybean fields planted in mid-May be managed like those planted in April? According to IL Soy Envoy Drew Beckman, the answer is yes, and he provides reasoning in his latest blog.
ISA Mentorship Program Builds Confidence in ICC Students’ Career Aspirations
Andrea Knack, an Illinois Central College student, recounts her journey in Illinois Soybean Association’s mentorship program, where she found a passion for soil conservation at the Natural Resources Conservation Service.
Register for Good Idea Shop Talks
Want to connect with other producers using conservation practices? Join the Good Idea Shop Talks, a free virtual meet-up series where you can share ideas and learn information on enhancing soil and water resources, as well as overcoming on-farm challenges.
Post Dicamba June 12th Cutoff & 85 Degree Temperature Reminder
The application cutoff date for dicamba use over-the-top of soybeans is June 12th, and the projected forecast for much of the state shows elevated temperatures for the week. IFCA understands the pressure ag retailer members face to control weeds with available crop protection products, but violations of the cut-off date, temperature restriction, or recordkeeping requirements will be considered willful violations of the Illinois Pesticide Act, so it is crucial to discuss label requirements with customers to ensure compliance.
Crop Scouting During the Awkward Junior High Stage
In a "normal" year, Stephanie Porter's focus would be on scouting V7 corn and R1 soybeans. However, with corn planted at varying intervals this year, it's essential to approach each field with a different mindset. Read on to see her photos and observations from the field.
Soil Saturation Sorrow
Southern Illinois has experienced significant rainfall recently. How does this excess moisture affect the soil? Kelly Robertson from Precision Crop Services LLC and IL Soy Envoy provides some observations.
Seven Recipients of Good Idea Mini-Grants to Implement Edge-of-Field Practices on Midwest Farms and Share Their Stories
Seven teams of farmers and farm advisors have received funding from Good Idea Mini-Grants. Each team was granted up to $8,000 to implement edge-of-field practices aimed at reducing soil erosion and nutrient runoff from farm fields into local waterways.
Soybean Phytophthora Stem and Root Rot Resistance Genes Have Become Less Effective
Managing soybean Phytophthora stem and root rot starts with variety resistance. A recent study led by Michigan State University determined that previously relied upon resistance genes are failing and there is a need for soybean breeders to incorporate new sources of resistance.
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