The Iowa Learning Farms (ILF) conservation webinar taking place July 19 at noon CDT will feature Brook Wilke, associate director for agronomy and science: Kellogg Biological Station, Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (KBS LTAR). Wilke oversees agronomy and science activities for KBS LTAR and conducts research on agronomic innovations that enhance efficiency and sustainability of cropping systems. He has extensive experience in agricultural systems ranging from organic vegetables and local markets to pasture-based livestock and cropping systems, including educational activities related to these systems.

In the webinar, “Designing Cropping Systems for Efficiency, Environmental Performance and More Profit,” Wilke will discuss the success and challenges identified through the Long-Term Agroecosystem Research (LTAR) program implementation in southwest Michigan. He will provide insights into measurement approaches used to evaluate performance of an aspirational cropping system in comparison to prevailing practices in the area. Wilke will also highlight some agronomic challenges identified through the project which could present obstacles for broad adoption.

“There are clear economic and environmental advantages of implementing a regenerative and efficient cropping system in the upper Midwest, but these practices do come with layers of challenges that require precision and attention to detail in order to optimize performance and minimize risk,” said Wilke. “I hope that by sharing our experiences and lessons learned from the KBS LTAR project, farmers throughout the region will gain insights and confidence in utilizing more of these tools that can help improve the sustainability of their cropping systems.”

Shortly before noon CDT, click the link below or type this web address into your internet browser: https://iastate.zoom.us/j/364284172