In Minnesota, producer interest in conservation tillage increases each year. This accelerating interest also generates many questions. Will this type of tillage work when corn follows corn? How do I handle the residue of high-yielding corn? Is there a yield penalty if I use conservation tillage? How do I fertilize in conservation tillage systems? These are a few of the many questions that revolve around this planting system.

Crop producers and ag professionals have an excellent opportunity to learn more about this way of farming on January 30 and 31, 2007. That’s when the Midwest Conservation Tillage Conference will be held at the Ramkota Inn in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The program starts mid-morning on January 30 and ends at noon on January 31.

The program features presentations by farmers who practice conservation tillage (no-till, strip-till, ridge-till). In addition, University faculty from four states will bring the latest research based ideas. The educational sessions are combined with commercial exhibits, another source of information.

There isn’t a better opportunity to learn about conservation in the Midwest. For More details, consult a recent issue of Corn and Soybean Digest or contact George Rehm (507) 263-9127 or rehmx@frontiernet.net.