The University of Minnesota Extension along with North Dakota State University Extension Service is hosting the 2017 Conservation Tillage Conference on Dec. 5-6 in Willmar, Minn.

Roll up your sleeves for some practical, hands-on information that will save you soil, time, fuel, and money. This conference emphasizes proven farmer experience and applied science. Straight from the fields, learn how heavier, colder soils aren’t necessarily the challenge they’re made out to be. Hear from long-time no-till and reduced tillage farmers as they share their experiences, so you can be spared the same hard-learned lessons.

"Whether you are a novice crop consultant or experienced in conservation tillage, this conference is for you," says Jodi DeJong-Hughes, U of M Extension Educator.

She adds, "The schedule includes a variety of speakers, including experienced growers, agronomists, and academic experts. With the extensive panel of speakers, participants will learn about nearly every aspect of improving soil health and productivity."

Conference highlights include:

Weed species shift and control
Nutrient management in high-residue systems
Reduced till and cover crop strategies straight from veteran farmer practitioners
Proven cover crop strategies for your system to anchor nutrients, manage moisture extremes and provide free nitrogen
Soil health improvements with reduced till systems
Climate trends and soil resiliency
Vendor Sessions: Learn about new equipment, products and technology
Informal table talk sessions will follow to allow time to interact with speakers and industry. On day two, a farmer panel will discuss using multiple methods to improve soil health and their bottom line as well as "tricks" they’ve learned over the years.

The 2 day conference will open with a provocative keynote speech from Jerry Hatfield, Director of the ARS National Laboratory for Agriculture and the Environment. Jerry will discuss how to improve soil resilience to best manage climate extremes and how good soil enhances crop productivity and yield stability. The closing keynote speaker is the meteorologist for Valley News Live and Ag Director for Ag News 890, Mick Kjar. Mick will discuss his farm visits across the Upper Midwest and the creative farmers he has met over the years.

More than 20 vendors representing equipment, and providing educational information will be on-site throughout both days. Attendees who stay for the entire conference will be offered seven continuing education units (CEU).

Early bird fee is $140 for the full conference. Prices will rise to $180 after November 21, 2017. Register online at DIGtheCTC.com or call 320-235-0726 x2001.

Visit DIGtheCTC.com for more information on the agenda, lodging, program speakers and to register.

Originally posted by the University of Minnesota Extension.