Conservation Reserve Program to Row Crop Demonstration

The demonstration project was designed to examine one way of preparing Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land for row crop production. Many producers have successfully converted CRP land for this purpose; additionally, there was an opportunity for the research farm to gain experience in this area. The goal of the project was to document one way of going through the process.

On-farm Cooperator Trials 2011: Effect of Extended-duration Row Covers on Muskmelon and Winter Squash on Bacterial Wilt and Yield

Susceptible cucurbit crops are difficult to grow in Iowa because of bacterial wilt, caused by Erwinia tracheiphila. Striped and spotted cucumber beetles transmit bacterial wilt. Other insect pests such as squash vine borer and squash bugs may also have an economic impact on yield, particularly in squash.

Evaluation of Narrow Row Soybeans

Producers continue to look at different management practices to increase corn and soybean yields. One area of interest is planting corn and soybeans in narrow rows. Traditionally, these crops have been planted in row widths of 30 to 38 in. Planters on the market today have the capability to plant corn and soybeans in 15- and 20-in. rows, as well as in twin rows that are spaced eight inches apart. This study was set up to evaluate the yield impact of planting soybeans in 15-in. rows versus the traditional 30-in. row spacing.