Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference

High input costs coupled with low grain prices anticipated in 2016 means that growers have to make smarter, calculated choices to grow profitable crops this year. Also important is the need to build and maintain healthy soils to help ensure good water quality, said Randall Reeder, a retired Ohio State University Extension agricultural engineer and organizer of the Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference.

The conference will offer the latest research, insight, tips and techniques on precision fertility, cover crops and manure, water management, technology and equipment, nutrient management, and advanced cover crops. The program includes a “Corn University” and “Soybean School.” Certified Crop Adviser continuing education credits are available, with an emphasis on soil and water and nutrient management hours.

Corn University topics (March 2) include:

• corn yield forecasting
• new molecular methods for insect control
• nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium management highlights for corn
• taking a second look at hybrid performance and technology
• crop-effective and environment-responsible nutrient placement in strip-till and no-till corn

Soybean School topics (March 3) include:

• Ohio soybean limitation survey results
• managing weeds in soybeans
• fertility management
• managing soybean insects
• future of soybean breeding
• top 10 ways to improve yield without breaking the bank

The Corn University and Soybean School are just two of a total of eight concurrent sessions. More than 900 participants are expected to attend the event, which is organized by OSU Extension and the Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center, with assistance from USDA and SWCDs.

The full schedule and registration information can be found online. Participants may register by mail through Feb 21 or online through Feb 26 for $65 for one day or $85 for both days. Walk-in registration is $80 for one day or $105 for both days. Information is also available from county offices of OSU Extension.

Other conference sponsors include the Ohio Corn Marketing Program, Ohio Soybean Council, Farm Science Review, John Deere, Ag Credit, Seed Consultants and the Ohio No-Till Council.