(ND Ag Connection) – By Scout Nelson

The annual NDSU Extension ‘Best of the Best in Wheat and Soybean Research’ meetings are set to take place on February 5 and 6, featuring cutting-edge agricultural insights. These sessions will be held at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and at the Courtyard by Marriott in Moorhead, Minnesota, starting with doors opening at 8 a.m.

“We are pleased to announce that this popular program will continue with support from the North Dakota Wheat Commission, the Minnesota Research and Promotion Council, and the Soybean Councils of North Dakota and Minnesota,” states Clair Keene, NDSU Extension agronomist.

The meetings will cover a variety of important topics. New challenges such as soybean insect pests and early-season soybean seedling diseases will be discussed alongside updates in pesticide labeling and applicator certification at the federal level.

Additionally, participants will benefit from discussions on small grain disease management and crop market outlooks provided by experts like Dr. Frayne Olson.

This year features new experts, including Dr. Ana Carcedo and Linda Johns, who will share their knowledge on broadleaf crop agronomy and pesticide safety, respectively. Dr. Jochum Wiersma will offer valuable insights into spring wheat variety selection and management.

The event also includes hands-on demonstrations where attendees can interact directly with live plant samples and pests. Topics such as iron deficiency chlorosis in soybeans, various small grain pests, grass weed identification, and root rot diseases will be covered in breakout sessions.

These practical demonstrations allow for an engaging learning environment where direct questions can be addressed by specialists.

In addition to gaining new knowledge, attendees can earn up to 4.0 Certified Crop Advisor Continuing Education Units across several categories, including integrated pest management and crop management.

This enriching experience not only updates farmers and agronomists on the latest research but also helps them manage their continuing education requirements.