Illinois Soybean Association Launches Agronomy Farm for Research

A new research initiative aimed at enhancing agricultural practices for soybean farmers has been officially launched by the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA). On August 25, 2023, the ISA Agronomy Farm was introduced at a media event held on approximately 98 acres of tillable land located just off Route 51, south of Heyworth, Illinois. The farm features a diverse range of crops, including soybeans, corn, wheat, double-drop soybeans, multiple cover crops, and a pollinator plot during its inaugural growing season.

Ron Kindred, a board director and immediate past president of ISA, emphasized the farm’s significance, stating, “This farm is a platform for research, demonstration, education and profitability.” He described it as a farmer-led research and demonstration site designed to generate actionable data that influences public policy. Kindred highlighted the importance of reinvesting soybean checkoff dollars to support local farmers and advance the Illinois soybean industry for future generations.

The ISA Agronomy Farm is strategically positioned to fill critical gaps in agricultural research, particularly as independent research has diminished due to budget cuts at organizations like the University of Illinois Extension. Kindred noted that while the Extension provided invaluable unbiased research for many years, budget constraints have limited their capabilities. “We’ve tried to fill that with our agronomy team,” he explained, referencing their efforts across 17 plots throughout the state.

Innovative Research and Practical Applications

Set apart from typical agricultural research, the ISA Agronomy Farm will conduct trials on larger plots, typically 10 acres or more. This approach aims to produce results that farmers can more easily relate to and apply on their own farms. “Because this land is owned, ISA can invest in long-term testing and infrastructure such as multi-year studies, tiling, or drainage,” Kindred said.

The farm will not only serve as a research site but will also act as a collaborative space for various stakeholders. It is centrally located between Chicago and Springfield, making it convenient for hosting state legislators, researchers, and industry leaders. Kindred noted, “This controlled space allows us to demonstrate policy-relevant topics like cover crop benefits and pesticide use.”

As a vital component of market development, the agronomy farm offers foreign buyers a firsthand look at Illinois agriculture’s capabilities, including its soil, climate, and technology. According to Kindred, showcasing soybean production directly in Illinois often leads to increased purchasing confidence, larger contracts, and stronger partnerships that ultimately support better market prices for Illinois soybeans.

Future Developments and Partnerships

The ISA Production Committee will oversee the annual design of the research plots. The initial season comprises corn plots at the northern end of the field, a dedicated soybean research plot, and a double-crop soybean plot. These plots will be rotated yearly to enhance research diversity. Abigail Peterson, ISA’s director of agronomy, emphasized the importance of comparative measures that remain consistent, allowing for controlled observations that can significantly impact agricultural practices.

The opening event also included contributions from various partners, including the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, Pheasants Forever, and researchers from the University of Illinois. Peterson expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative aspects of the farm, stating, “The exciting part is to have some ideas come to life and really structure what is ever changing in the ag space.”

The ISA acquired the land through a purchase agreement with a local trust, which was looking to conduct a 1031 exchange. The association had set aside funds over a year in advance for a land purchase, aligning with their goals for accessibility and convenience for staff and visiting trade teams.

The ISA Agronomy Farm represents a significant investment in the future of Illinois agriculture, with the primary aim of helping farmers improve their return on investment. “Agronomic data from this farm will inform decisions about nutrient rates, tile management and best practices that improve yields and efficiency,” Kindred concluded. As the farm begins its research journey, it stands as a testament to the ISA’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in farming.