Soil testing is an essential tool for managing phosphorus (P), potassium (K) and other nutrients. In Iowa and many states, the units reported in a soil test are expressed in parts per million (ppm) of the elements (not oxides P₂O₅ or K₂O, as in fertilizers) of dry or moist soil depending on the test. Different test methods can be used for a specific nutrient.

Join us for the 36^th Integrated Crop Management Conference, which brings together a range of topics related to crop production, crop protection, nutrient management, and soil and water management. The event features experts sharing research updates and practical recommendations. Don’t miss this key opportunity for networking and education!

When: December 10 and 11, 2025

Where: The Meadows Events Center in Altoona, Iowa

It may have felt like summer was hanging on through October, but this morning’s frost on rooftops and the need for a heavier jacket was a clear reminder, fall is here. And with fall comes frost, which can bring serious concerns for some forage species.

Why Is Frost a Concern for Sorghum?

A practical guide for ag professionals, surveyors, and GPS users in the field.

Big changes are coming in 2026 to the geodetic reference systems “datums” behind GPS and if you're using GPS for precision ag, surveying, or construction, these changes may affect your A-B lines, boundaries, and other mapped data.

The National Geodetic Survey (NGS) will officially replace two outdated reference frames:

This year’s wet conditions have disrupted many hay cutting schedules across Iowa, leaving many producers uncertain about when or whether to take a final alfalfa harvest. As we move into fall, it’s important to start preparing perennial hay fields for winter. A key consideration is timing your final cutting to support winter survival and minimize winter kill risk.