by Rebecca Vittetoe and Erin Hodgson
Winter provides an opportunity to evaluate lessons learned from the 2026 season and make management decisions before the 2027 crop year begins.
The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach crops team is offering a winter program lineup full of research-based information and practical strategies to help farmers, crop advisers, agribusiness professionals and agency staff prepare for the upcoming growing season by:
- improving profitability
- managing risk
- enhancing productivity
- addressing conservation and water quality goals
The four programs are:
1. Integrated Crop Management Conference. This is Iowa's premier crop production education event. It brings together farmers, crop advisers, agronomists, industry professionals and researchers to discuss emerging challenges and management strategies shaping the upcoming growing season.
Attendees gain access to the latest university research, practical recommendations and expert perspectives on crop production, pest management, nutrient management, soil health, water quality, conservation and agricultural technology. This year’s conference is Dec. 9-10 in Altoona, Iowa.
Early-bird registration is $260 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Nov. 16. Regular registration is $300 and ends at 11:59 p.m. Dec. 3. On-site registration is also available for $350.
Registration includes a refreshment break, lunch, access to exhibits and continuing education units for certified crop advisers. The program also is approved for Iowa commercial pesticide applicator continuing education in categories 1A, 1B, 1C and 4 for an additional fee.
2. Crop Advantage Series. This program will help producers and agricultural professionals make informed management decisions by delivering current, research-based information tailored to local growing conditions and production challenges.
Topics at 12 meetings across Iowa in January are tailored to local growing conditions, production challenges and emerging issues affecting each region. They may include crop production, pest management, nutrient stewardship, conservation practices, water quality and emerging agronomic issues.
Topics provide practical information participants can use to improve efficiency, reduce risk and protect profitability heading into the 2027 growing season.
Registration is $75 until one week prior to the meeting date. Late and on-site registration is $100. Registration includes refreshments and lunch, certified crop adviser credits, and access to resources. Private pesticide applicator recertification will be available at each location for an additional $30, which will be collected on-site.
3. Planter University. Planter performance has a season-long impact on emergence, stand establishment and, ultimately, yield potential. Planter University is an interactive workshop that helps participants understand how planter maintenance, adjustment and operation influence planting success.
It also provides real-world experience to improve equipment performance before the planting season begins.
Attendees leave with greater confidence in diagnosing planter issues, evaluating field conditions, and making adjustments that can help maximize planting efficiency and crop performance.
This program will be offered from Feb. 1-5 at five locations across Iowa. Space is limited to accommodate hands-on demonstrations that include high-speed and traditional row unit demo stands and furrow boxes. Registration is $150 and opens Jan. 5.
4. CropsTV. For those who prefer flexible learning opportunities, CropsTV brings timely crop management information directly to producers and agricultural professionals. The on-demand format allows subscribers to stay current on emerging crop production, pests, nutrient management, and soil and water topics without having to leave the farm or office.
Episodes are designed to help subscribers stay ahead of emerging issues, evaluate management options, and make informed decisions that support both profitability and environmental stewardship.
A subscription to CropsTV Season 7 is $125 and includes access to all episodes, certified crop adviser credits and supporting resources. Subscribers can opt in to receive text message updates on CropsTV. Viewing of CropsTV Season 7 will be available from Jan. 5 through April 15.
More information available
Whether you are looking to earn continuing education credits, stay informed on the latest research, improve profitability, address conservation and water quality goals, or prepare for the next growing season, the ISU Extension and Outreach crops team offers educational opportunities to fit a variety of needs and schedules.
For more information about any of these programs, email the crops team at crops@iastate.edu, visit go.iastate.edu/cropsevents, or contact your regional ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist.
Vittetoe is an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach field agronomist. Hodgson is an ISU Extension entomologist.