2010 Yield Challenge Offers Incentives

If looking for ways to increase soybean yields isn’t enough persuasion to enter the 2010 Yield Challenge, perhaps the participation incentives and final rewards will be.  Participants can expect not only agronomic recommendations, but also cash prizes for their top ideas.

“Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) leaders know farmers have great ideas for increasing yields.  Now participating teams can test and share those ideas and win up to $500 for top yields, as well as be recognized for novel practices, economic development and data collection,” says Mike Levin, ISA director of legislative affairs and special projects.  “The 2010 Yield Challenge provides an exciting path for channeling excitement into soybean production.”

“The 2010 Yield Challenge is a unique and aggressive program to collect innovative ideas and solid data on how farmers can enhance soybean yields across the state,” adds Jim Nelson, Yield Challenge coordinator.  “Giving soybean production procedures more attention is an important step in bringing greater yield and profitability to Illinois farmers.”

Nelson adds that future global needs for soy are fueling not only the need for improved yields and efficiencies, but also a need for more awareness of soybean production possibilities, more attention to the role of soybean profitability and sustainability, the need to generate more crop science graduates from Illinois colleges and universities, and the need for growers to re-examine how soybean production fits their crop planning.

“While research results are the driving force behind the 2010 Yield Challenge, there are many other benefits,” he says.  “Being part of this unique program is enough to motivate many to participate in the 2010 Yield Challenge.  But to keep the program interesting and fun – and to add value – we will have other incentives for farmers and students.”

The 2010 Yield Challenge will ask participants for soil samples to set a baseline for data evaluations and provide farmers with new and valuable information about their fields.  An independent private lab will conduct tests for key macro- and micro-nutrient elements.  The lab also will do soybean cyst nematode (SCN) egg counts and type testing.  Even if farmers have prior knowledge of cyst presence, the analysis could provide new direction to combat SCN.  Nelson says the tests are expensive, but reveal more about intensity and tolerance to commonly used cyst resistance sources in many Illinois soybean varieties.

“Grain quality tests will also be offered on harvest grain samples.  We can evaluate yield responses, as well as whether those practices enhanced grain quality and value,” he says.

Cash prizes for winning teams in each of nine districts will be awarded to farmers.  Statewide winners in FFA and college competitions will have awards presented to their school’s agricultural program.  Special prize categories also will be offered.  Recognition will be made through various media sources, publications and field signs and more.  Additional information can be found at www.soyyieldchallenge.com.

“It is a privilege to participate in a challenge that offers excellent opportunities to contribute to the ongoing research efforts of the ISA,” Nelson says.  “Participants will work with other farmers, agribusinesses and experts to develop yield-enhancing plans and learn in a synergistic atmosphere.  We trust everyone will see immediate and long-term benefits to their farms, businesses and careers.”

*Content Funded by the Soybean Checkoff