Farmers Set to Explore Innovations at UNL’s Field Day on August 7
Farmers from the region will gather on August 7, 2023, for the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s South Central Agricultural Laboratory (SCAL) Field Day, an event designed to provide practical insights into modern agricultural practices. Scheduled to run from 08:30 to 15:10 at the SCAL research farm headquarters near Harvard, Nebraska, the event promises a full day of valuable information and networking opportunities for local growers.
Situated on the south side of U.S. Highway 6, the SCAL is easily accessible, located just 13 miles east of Hastings and 4.5 miles west of the Clay Center corner. Attendees can expect a complimentary lunch, and Continuing Education Credits will be available for those seeking further professional development. To ensure adequate planning for meals, pre-registration by July 31 is encouraged.
Key Topics and Presentations
The agenda includes a variety of timely topics crucial for contemporary farming. Sessions will cover strategies for irrigation scheduling, management of corn and soybean diseases such as tar spot and white mold, and the use of cover crops for effective weed management. In addition, attendees will learn about insect management in crops and view tours of conservation features in prairie strips. An innovative highlight will be the demonstration of sensor-guided fertigation for real-time nitrogen management.
A standout feature of the event will be the introduction of the “See-N-Till” robot, an advanced autonomous field robot designed to enhance weed management. This innovative technology can detect and differentiate weeds while performing shallow tillage, representing a significant advancement in sustainable farming practices.
Expert Insights and Networking Opportunities
The keynote speaker for the lunch session will be Dan Snow, director of laboratory services at the University of Nebraska Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute. His presentation will focus on nitrate challenges in groundwater, drawing on findings from a collaborative study with the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. This research examines nitrate and agrichemical levels in the vadose zone across 12 water quality management zones, providing essential insights for farmers working to manage their environmental impact.
In addition to expert presentations, the lunch talks will feature a panel discussion with local farmers, offering attendees the chance to engage with their peers and share experiences. This combination of expert insights and peer networking makes the SCAL Field Day a vital event for farmers seeking to enhance their agricultural practices.
For those interested in attending, registration is available online at go.unl.edu/scalfieldday. Further inquiries can be directed to 402-762-3536 or via email at [email protected].
