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Field Advisor

Field Advisor, funded by the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Checkoff Program, provides the latest agronomic information and on-farm research from local experts to help Illinois soybean producers improve yield and profitability.

  1. 82

    Strongest El Nino on Record? Weather Update with Matt Reardon

    In this episode of Field Advisor, atmospheric scientist Matt Reardon of Nutrien Ag Solutions breaks down a volatile spring across Illinois, including record tornado activity and a rapid shift from drought to excess moisture that has delayed planting. He explains what drove April’s extreme weather, what to expect through May, and how a developing El Niño could influence summer conditions.

  2. 81

    From Planting Progress to Problem Spots: An IL Crop Update

    In this episode, IL Soy Envoys Matt Montgomery, CCA, with Beck’s Hybrids and Scott Krone with GDM Seeds join Illinois Soybean Association agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA, to provide a regional crop update across Illinois. The discussion covers current planting progress and how recent weather patterns are influencing field conditions, including frost events and the potential for early-season soybean injury.They also evaluate replant considerations in saturated soils, outlining key agronomic factors such as stand and population. Additional discussion includes early-season weed control strategies and wheat crop conditions as the season progresses. Tune in for a timely, field-driven update tailored to Illinois farmers and agronomists. 

  3. 80

    Beans Are Up in Southeastern Illinois!

    In this episode, Mike Wilson, CCA, specialty products marketing manager with Wabash Valley Service Company, joins Kelsey from southeastern Illinois with a boots-on-the-ground update from the field. He discusses emerging soybeans, current drought conditions, and how weather is influencing planting progress across the region. Mike also shares perspective on fertilizer prices, cautions against cutting key agronomic inputs, highlights important considerations for the season, and offers timely safety reminders as farmers navigate the pace of spring fieldwork.

  4. 79

    Managing Tillage and Spray Applications in Unpredictable Weather Conditions

    In this episode, Sunrise FS agronomist Eric Beckett, CCA, examines how increasing weather variability is reshaping agronomic decision making across the Midwest. He discusses the need to reassess traditional tillage and nutrient application strategies to improve efficiency, soil health and risk management under windier conditions. Beckett also addresses the rapid adoption of drone-based application and urges a measured approach as the technology continues to evolve. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how these systems are being operated, including application setup, carrier volume, flight parameters and data transparency, and encourages farmers to have informed conversations with applicators to ensure adequate coverage, label compliance and overall performance in the field.

  5. 78

    Setting Up Soybeans for Success in 2026 with Tight Margins & Dry Conditions

    In this episode, Illinois Soybean Association Agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA, discusses current field conditions and drought concerns, along with considerations around soybean seed quality, input costs and the economic factors shaping on farm decisions. She also covers soybean planting recommendations, seeding populations, seed treatments and weed management strategies for the 2026 growing season.Here's the link to the Crop Protection Network's Fungicide Efficacy for Management of Soybean Seedling Diseases.  

  6. 77

    Which PRE Herbicides Increase Injury Risk in Early-Planted Soybeans?

    Early soybean planting can boost yield potential, but it also brings added risk. This episode features Logan Miller, research specialist in weed science at the University of Illinois, discussing his IL Soybean checkoff-funded research evaluating which preemergence (PRE) herbicides are more likely to cause crop injury in early planted soybeans.Miller explains how cold, wet conditions impact herbicide metabolism, what his multi-year field research shows across different products and active ingredients, and why PPO based herbicides tend to carry more early season risk. He also shares practical takeaways for farmers, including how to balance weed control with crop safety and what factors such as weather, field conditions, and seed treatments matter most when making herbicide decisions.See all updates and read more about this project by visiting Field Advisor - https://fieldadvisor.org/which-preemergence-herbicides-are-more-likely-to-cause-crop-injury/

  7. 76

    Is Relief Ahead for Illinois’ Drought Conditions?

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Matt Reardon, senior atmospheric scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions, discusses what Illinois farmers can expect as winter transitions into spring. He breaks down ongoing drought conditions, the 14-day outlook for rainfall, and how El Niño may influence weather patterns throughout the growing season. The conversation also covers severe weather preparedness, whether there is concern of dust storms, and what these changing conditions could mean for field decisions in the months ahead.

  8. 75

    Is “FOMO” Driving Decisions on Your Farm?

    In this episode of Field Advisor, Kelsey sits down with Wisconsin-based crop consultant Kyle Stull of Stull Agronomy to discuss how today’s marketing environment is influencing on-farm decision making and return on investment.With constant exposure to new products, free trials and influencer recommendations, how can growers separate what truly pays from what is simply popular? Kelsey and Kyle explore how marketing and accessibility can shape adoption and offer practical ways to test new practices without putting the whole farm plan at risk.They also touch on current drought conditions in the Midwest, expectations for 2026 corn and soybean acres, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in crop consulting.

  9. 74

    Dicamba Is Back — Here’s What the New EPA Decision Means for Illinois Farmers

    New dicamba rules. Farm Bill uncertainty. And a packed legislative agenda in Springfield. In this episode of Field Advisor, Kevin Johnson (KJ), director of government relations and strategy at the Illinois Soybean Association, joins Kelsey Litchfield to break down the latest dicamba news from the EPA, pesticide legislation to watch in Springfield, and other policy issues Illinois farmers should be paying attention to. What’s changing, what’s concerning, and what comes next.

  10. 73

    In Conversation with Dr. Matthew Vann – Illinois Extension’s Newest Director

    Dr. Matthew Vann, associate dean and director of University of Illinois Extension, stopped by the Field Advisor Podcast booth at the Farm Progress Show to talk about the path that led him to Illinois. A native of rural Florida and graduate of NC State, Dr. Vann shares how his upbringing and academic journey shaped his career and what inspired his move to Illinois. Hear his perspective on leadership, outreach, and the opportunities ahead for Illinois Extension.

  11. 72

    How ISAP Helps Illinois Farmers Find the Right Resources

    How can Illinois farmers more easily find clear, reliable information about conservation programs and practices? In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, guests Jean Brokish and Kris Reynolds, CCA, discuss how the Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership (ISAP) helps farmers connect to resources and peer-to-peer learning opportunities. The conversation also highlights the mission of American Farmland Trust and provides an update on Illinois’ Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy. 

  12. 71

    Cover Crops – How Can I Make That Work on My Farm?

    John Pike joins this Field Advisor episode to share his recommendations for getting started with cover crops. He offers practical examples, discusses the early benefits farmers often see, and explains how to think about cover crops as part of the corn-soybean system.

  13. 70

    Let’s Talk About 2025 (Briefly), Then Move On to 2026

    In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys break down the current state of harvest across Illinois, sharing yield reports, regional trends, and how ongoing drought conditions are shaping results. They also provide updates on cover crop seeding (and no, not the “free kind” already growing in the field!) and discuss fall burndown along with the challenges of applying anhydrous ammonia in dry soils.The conversation wraps up with reflections on the 2025 growing season and advice for farmers planning ahead to 2026—highlighting the importance of efficiency, adaptability, and smart management decisions.Featured IL Soy Envoys in this episode include:Mike Wilson, CCA, Specialty Products Marketing Manager, Wabash Valley Service CompanyHaley Brokate, CCA, Key Account Manager, Sunrise FSByron Hendrix, CCA, Senior Sales Agronomist, Stepan CompanyTorey Colburn, CCA, Midwest Conservation Agronomist, American Farmland Trust

  14. 69

    Red Crown Rot: The Soybean Disease That Keeps Raising Questions

    Red crown rot is increasingly recognized as a serious issue in soybean production, but many questions remain. In this Field Advisor episode, Syngenta’s Dale Ireland, University of Illinois plant pathologist Boris Camiletti, and Illinois Soybean Association outreach agronomist Stephanie Porter discuss early detection, management strategies, environmental influences, varietal responses, and how soil movement contributes to the disease’s spread. The conversation underscores the need for continued research and collaboration to manage this challenging pest.This podcast was recorded at the 2025 Farm Progress Show in Decatur, IL. Red crown rot photo courtesy of Darby Danzl, Illinois Soybean Association

  15. 68

    Soybean Cyst Nematode: How Much Yield Are You Leaving in the Field? (More Than You Think)

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, released in recognition of National Nematode Day, host Kelsey Litchfield sits down with three experts to tackle one of the biggest threats to soybean yields: soybean cyst nematode (SCN). Joining the conversation are Dr. Horacio Lopez-Nicora, assistant professor of soybean pathology and nematology at The Ohio State University; Dr. Dylan Mangel, extension/research plant pathologist at the University of Nebraska; and Illinois Soybean Association Outreach Agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA.Together, they break down why SCN remains the “silent yield robber,” how to test and manage it, and the role of crop rotation, resistant varieties, and seed treatments. They also share updates from the SCN Coalition and practical research aimed at helping farmers stay ahead of this pest.The message is clear: farmers should get their fields tested (Illinois Soybean checkoff offers a free program – click here to learn more) and then use the SCN Profit Check tool at www.thescncoalition.com to see how much SCN could be costing them.

  16. 67

    The Battle for Conservation Funding in Illinois

    Eliot Clay, executive director of the Association of Illinois Soil and Water Conservation Districts, and Andrew Larson, director of government relations and strategy at the Illinois Soybean Association, join the Field Advisor podcast to talk about the critical role of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) in Illinois. Together, they explore the history and importance of local conservation efforts, the ongoing challenges of securing state funding, and the need for stronger education and advocacy with legislators. Hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, this conversation emphasizes how building connections with policymakers helps ensure conservation remains a priority in state funding and policy.

  17. 66

    September Scouting Report – Harvest Begins!

    IL Soy Envoys Matt Montgomery, CCA, of Beck’s Hybrids, Seth Wiley of Babson Farms, and Byron Hendrix, CCA, of Agronomy 1st LLC join the podcast to share harvest updates from across Illinois. They dig into the biggest headlines from the field—including how 2025 shaped up as a strong fungicide response year, with some corn fields showing 20–30 bushel yield advantages where foliar fungicides were applied. The group also discusses southern rust in corn, red crown rot in soybeans, the surprising lack of four-bean pods this season, the impact of recent drought conditions, and more. 

  18. 65

    Phantom Yield Loss, Test Weight and Harvest Decisions

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, Dr. Connor Sible, research assistant professor in the crop physiology lab at the University of Illinois, discusses his team’s recent work on sulfur trials in soybeans, tissue testing and their impact on crop yield and management. The conversation covers phantom yield loss in corn, harvest challenges and biologicals. Sible also outlines future research priorities and emphasizes the role of farmer involvement in shaping research initiatives.

  19. 64

    Dicamba Decisions, Glyphosate Debates, and the MAHA Report

    Dr. Aaron Hager from the University of Illinois, Kevin “KJ” Johnson of the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association, and Dr. Corey Lacey with the Illinois Soybean Association discuss the latest surrounding pesticide regulation. They break down the current status of dicamba and glyphosate, what the new rules may mean for farmers, and the role of applicator training in ensuring compliance. The discussion also highlights the impact of the MAHA report on pesticide use and underscores why clear communication within the agricultural community is essential for navigating today’s regulatory environment. The discussion also turns to harvest preparations and the challenges of navigating fertilizer markets.This episode was recorded on August 27, 2025 at the Farm Progress Show in Decatur, IL. 

  20. 63

    This Harvest Season is Shaping Up to Be Another Dry One

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, Matt Reardon, Senior Atmospheric Scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions, breaks down the weather trends shaping agriculture right now. He discusses whether harvest conditions could mirror last year’s dry fall, the impact of current weather on crop health, updates on the ongoing hurricane season, and soil moisture deficits. Reardon also shares his forecast for the rest of September and an update on Mississippi River levels.

  21. 62

    Standability Will Be Huge This Year With Harvest Approaching

    At the Farm Progress Show, IL Soy Envoy Byron Hendrix, CCA, and ISA Outreach Agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA, shared crop updates and observations as harvest approaches. Corn is in good shape thanks to cooler weather, but standability and grain fill remain key concerns. Soybeans are healthy overall, though SDS is showing up in spots, and many fields could use one more rain. Disease pressure is mixed—southern rust is hitting later-planted corn, while tar spot continues to be a major threat. Looking ahead, both stressed the importance of taking notes from the combine to guide future seed and management decisions. Cover crops are proving valuable for weed suppression, and conversations continue about potential dicamba use in 2026 and fall 2025 burndown programs. 

  22. 61

    Cover Crops: Another Mode of Action

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, IL Soy Envoy Torey Colburn, Midwest Conservation Agronomist with American Farmland Trust, shares an update on crop conditions in Northern Illinois. He discusses soil moisture, disease management, and the approaching window for cover crop seeding. Torey also explores the challenges and advantages of aerial seeding and highlights how cover crops can play a key role in weed suppression.

  23. 60

    Disease Pressure Builds as the Crop Races to Maturity

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, experts from across Illinois share an inside look at early August crop conditions. Byron Hendrix, CCA, of Agronomy 1st LLC; Stephanie Porter, CCA, of the Illinois Soybean Association; Seth Wiley of Babson Farms; and Mike Wilson, CCA, of Wabash Valley Service Company discuss how weather, disease pressures, and market trends are shaping the 2025 growing season. From fungicide effectiveness and waterhemp challenges to emerging disease pressures like red crown rot, white mold, and sudden death syndrome in soybeans—and tar spot, common rust, and southern rust in corn—our panel provides timely information for Illinois farmers navigating the heart of the growing season.

  24. 59

    Is Intense Rainfall the New Norm?

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield, Stephanie Porter, and Matt Reardon of Nutrien Ag discuss the complexities of weather patterns affecting agriculture in Illinois. They explore the challenges posed by unpredictable rainfall, the impact of heat and moisture on crop health, and the current state of drought and soil moisture. The conversation also explores into the significance of upcoming weather changes, the influence of tropical storms, and the increasing frequency of intense rainfall events.  As mentioned in the episode, here’s the link to Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford’s article, “Staying Ahead of Intense Precipitation in Illinois.”

  25. 58

    “We’re in the Garden Spot Right Now”

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, Brandon Hall, CCA and location operations manager at West Central FS, shares an update on crop conditions across Knox County and the West Central Illinois region. He breaks down how timely rains have supported crop growth, while also emphasizing the need to stay ahead of diseases like tar spot. Brandon offers practical advice on fungicide timing, assessing soybean health, and watching for emerging disease threats. The discussion also touches on wheat harvest, managing double-crop soybeans, effective weed control, and how cover crops can fit into your system.

  26. 57

    Scouting for Soybean Diseases with Stephanie Porter

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey talks with Illinois Soybean Association Outreach Agronomist Stephanie Porter, CCA, about the soybean diseases farmers should watch for in their fields this growing season. They cover scouting tips, weather impacts, and the importance of timely fungicide applications. Stephanie highlights key diseases such as frogeye leaf spot, septoria leaf blight, red crown rot, and sudden death syndrome (SDS), emphasizing accurate diagnosis and the role of research in managing these issues. The conversation also touches on insect management — particularly Japanese beetles — and other lessons from this growing season. For more information on diseases and other tools, visit the Crop Protection Network. SDS Image Credit - Daren Mueller, Iowa State University, Bugwood.org

  27. 56

    Breaking Down Fungicide Decisions: Timing, Products, and ROI

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield is joined by IL Soy Envoys Seth Wiley (northern Illinois) and Mike Wilson, CCA (southeastern Illinois), for a scouting update on crop and field conditions across the state. They break down the agronomic impact of recent weather extremes—from saturated soils to isolated drought stress. The discussion dives into pest pressure trends and fungicide strategies, including comparisons between generic and branded products and the economics of one-pass versus two-pass applications. They also discuss how growers are adjusting in-season management amid ongoing market volatility.

  28. 55

    Excessive Rainfall Strains Growing Season for Southern Illinois Farmers

    Host Kelsey Litchfield talks with Kelly Robertson, certified crop adviser and owner of Precision Crop Services, LLC, about the severe rainfall crisis in Southern Illinois. The episode addresses delayed planting, poor crop emergence, increased disease pressure, and crop insurance. The discussion also covers economic strain, mental health concerns among farmers, and the challenges of wheat harvest. 

  29. 54

    Weather Trends to Watch: Illinois Rain Events and Drought in June

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield speaks with Matt Reardon, senior atmospheric scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions, about current weather patterns affecting Illinois. They discuss the frequency of rain events in Southern Illinois along with ongoing drought concerns in the north. The episode also explores the potential influence of tropical systems on regional weather and severe storm outbreaks, and includes a global outlook on drought risks, particularly in Eastern Europe.

  30. 53

    June Scouting Report: Weather Swings, Weed Pressure and What’s Ahead

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield is joined by Illinois Soy Envoys Torey Colburn, CCA, with American Farmland Trust; Haley Brokate, CCA, with Illini FS; and Byron Hendrix, CCA, with Agronomy 1st LLC, for an early June agronomic roundtable. The discussion focuses on statewide crop conditions and dives into timely topics including cover crop termination lessons, postemergence weed control, and weather-induced variability in crop development. The group also addresses emerging pest and disease pressure, highlighting the critical role of in-field scouting and data-driven fungicide decisions as the growing season progresses.

  31. 52

    Crop Talk with The Short Bald Agronomist

    In this episode, Kelsey Litchfield talks with Matt Montgomery, also known as The Short Bald Agronomist and Agronomy Education Lead at Beck’s Hybrids, about agronomy education, soybean management strategies, and navigating information overload. Topics include disease education (e.g., red crown rot), the role of mentorship, personal branding, people skills, and the integration of emerging technologies like drones in modern ag practices.

  32. 51

    Pesticide Policy Update: The Latest from D.C. and Springfield

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, Kelsey Litchfield chats with Kevin Johnson from the Illinois Fertilizer & Chemical Association and Corey Lacey from the Illinois Soybean Association. They break down what farmers need to know about the latest fertilizer and chemical trends, the EPA’s final herbicide and insecticide strategies, Illinois applicator licensing updates, and potential Illinois laws that could impact your farm.

  33. 50

    IL Planting Progress: Smooth Sailing or Still Waiting…

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield checks in with Illinois Soy Envoys Seth Wiley in northern Illinois, Matt Montgomery in central and west-central Illinois, and Mike Wilson in southeastern Illinois. They provide updates on soybean and corn planting progress, which varies widely across the state — with some farmers finished and others still waiting to begin. The conversation covers replanting considerations, the importance of scouting for weeds, and why farmers should stay committed to their management plans while adjusting to changing field conditions.

  34. 49

    Mike Wilson on Biologicals, Sulfur, and Smarter Soybean Management

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield chats with Mike Wilson, CCA and Specialty Products Marketing Manager at Wabash Valley Service Company, who brings years of experience in soybean production. They explore the evolving role of biologicals, why sulfur matters in soybean management, and lessons learned from decades of experience. Mike offers practical recommendations on managing yields, specialty products, and why it’s important for farmers to focus on their own fields—not someone else’s. He also reflects on the value of family, staying curious, and always improving.

  35. 48

    IL Soy Envoy Spotlight: Haley Brokate

    Tune in to this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast as Kelsey Litchfield chats with 2025 IL Soy Envoy Haley Brokate, CCA, from Illini FS to talk agronomy and what’s really happening in the field. From tackling herbicide resistance and staying ahead on weed control to navigating labor shortages, Haley shares her perspective on these issues. They also dig into soybean management strategies, seed placement, and how tech tools like drones are changing the game in scouting and yield estimation. 

  36. 47

    Your Agronomy Questions, Answered

    The Illinois Soybean Association Agronomy Team hosted a live Q&A session to discuss the 2025 growing season. Abigail Peterson, CCA, Stacy Zuber, PhD, and Stephanie Porter, CCA, discussed what to watch for this season in terms of nutrient management, weed control, cover crops, and much more. 

  37. 46

    7 Rainy Sundays? A Look at the Spring Forecast and Summer Outlook

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield gets a weather update from Matt Reardon, senior atmospheric scientist at Nutrien Ag Solutions. They discuss how this year’s weather patterns are impacting planting season, along with the latest spring forecast, including rainfall, severe weather, and drought risks for the upcoming summer. Plus, Reardon explains the unusual wind patterns we’re seeing in 2025.

  38. 45

    IL Soy Envoy Spotlight: Byron Hendrix

    In this episode of the Field Advisor Podcast, host Kelsey Litchfield talks with Byron Hendrix, CCA, owner of Agronomy 1st LLC and 2025 Illinois Soy Envoy. Byron brings his boots-on-the-ground perspective on weed control, herbicide resistance, and soybean management. He also shares why working with a Certified Crop Adviser could be helpful on your farm. 

  39. 44

    Tissue Testing: Is It Worth the Effort?

    On this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield chats with Connor Sible, PhD, research assistant professor at the University of Illinois, about what tissue testing in soybeans can tell us—and whether it's worth the time and money, especially with today’s tighter margins.Connor shares what he’s learned so far from the first year of Illinois soybean checkoff-funded research looking at the best time to tissue test soybeans to get a clearer picture of nutrient needs and increase yields. He talks about some of the challenges with tissue testing, how soybeans move nutrients through the plant, and how farmers and researchers working together can turn data into practice on their fields. If you’ve ever questioned the value of tissue testing, this episode offers practical information to help you decide what works best for your farm.

  40. 43

    This Week on Field Advisor: Spring Storms, Soybean Planting, Cover Crop Termination and More

    This week on Field Advisor, Kelsey Litchfield shares the latest blog updates, including the spring weather outlook, soybean planting recommendations, 2024 soybean disease loss data from the Crop Protection Network, and timely cover crop termination tips.

  41. 42

    Soybean Planting Playbook

    In this episode of Field Advisor, Kelsey Litchfield and Stephanie Porter, CCA, discuss soybean planting season. They cover the risks associated with early planting, the considerations for no-till planting, adjustments in seeding rates, weed control challenges, seed quality concerns, and crop scouting. 

  42. 41

    Midwest Weather Trends: What’s in Store for Spring?

    In this episode of the Field Advisor podcast, Kelsey Litchfield speaks with Matt Reardon, a Senior Atmospheric Scientist at Nutrient Ag Solutions, about the current weather patterns affecting the Midwest, particularly Illinois. They discuss the recent severe storms, the implications for the upcoming growing season and the importance of being prepared for severe weather events. Matt explains the trends in severe weather, including derechos and tornadoes, and provides analysis into the upcoming spring weather forecasts and seasonal outlooks. The conversation also touches on soil moisture concerns, the impact of snow and freeze-thaw cycles, and the role of AI in weather forecasting.

  43. 40

    Weeding Out The Bias in Ag Retail & Crop Consulting

    In this episode of Field Advisor, host Kelsey Litchfield discusses the upcoming 2025 growing season with agronomists Eric Beckett and Karen Corrigan. They explore the critical role of agronomists in providing unbiased information to farmers, the biases that exist within agricultural recommendations, and the importance of data-driven decisions in crop consulting. As they prepare for the upcoming spring planting season, they emphasize the need for good agronomy practices and the importance of safety in the field.

  44. 39

    Did Spring's Mistakes Come Back to Haunt Yields?

    In this final growing season update, the IL Soy Envoys recap the top agronomic challenges of 2024 and share primary concerns for farmers heading into 2025. They discuss how early-season stressors influenced harvest yields, weed control issues, the yield hit of late spot spraying, and the challenges of fall soil testing. The Envoys also address rising fertilizer costs, the effects of corn aphids on yields, and concerns about dry conditions and warm temperatures for fall anhydrous applications.  The guests in today’s podcast include Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids; Shelby Weckel, Ehler Bros; Eric Beckett, Illini FS; Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Science; Karen Corrigan, McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics; Kelly Robertson, Precision Crop Services, LLC; and Stephanie Porter, Illinois Soybean Association. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association. Watch the video version of the Field Advisor podcast on YouTube or subscribe on all major podcasting platforms.

  45. 38

    Harvest Highlights & Concerns

    In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys share yield reports from their regions, highlighting a wide range of results in both soybeans and corn, with many areas seeing strong yields overall. They also cover important fall topics, including soybean header loss, soil pH and lime application, the impact of planting dates on yield, soil moisture and dryness concerns, a disease update, and more. Links Mentioned in This Episode: “The Hidden Power of Lime: Why pH Matters to Production” by Kelly Robertson, CCA, Precision Crop Services, LLC  The guests in today’s podcast include Eric Beckett, Illini FS; Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Science; Karen Corrigan, McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics; Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids; Shelby Weckel, Ehler Bros; Kelly Robertson, Precision Crop Services, LLC; and Stephanie Porter, Illinois Soybean Association. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association. Watch the video version of the Field Advisor podcast on YouTube or subscribe on all major podcasting platforms.

  46. 37

    How are Yields Shaping Up?

    In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys examine the current conditions of soybean and corn crops, highlighting how recent rains have enhanced moisture levels in soybeans. They review yield reports, noting variability in both corn and soybeans, with some areas experiencing lower yields due to seasonal stresses, along with reports of cercospora leaf blight and ear rot disease. The conversation also covers 2025 input planning for fertilizer and weed control.Links Mentioned in This Episode: ·      “The Bronzing Effect of Cercospora Leaf Blight” by Shelby Weckel·      Free SCN Egg Count Sampling funded by Illinois Soybean Checkoff program·      “2025 Input Planning: Phosphorus and Potassium Applications” by Eric Beckett·      “2025 Input Planning: Weed Control” by Eric Beckett·      On-Farm Trialing Network with Illinois Soybean AssociationThe guests in today’s podcast include Shelby Weckel, Ehler Brothers Seed; Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids; and Eric Beckett, Illini FS. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association. Watch the video version of the Field Advisor podcast on YouTube or subscribe on all major podcasting platforms.

  47. 36

    Winning with Wheat and Double-Crop Soybeans

    In this episode, Kelsey Litchfield is joined by John Howell, a farmer from Monroe and Randolph counties in Illinois and president of the Illinois Wheat Association. They start by examining the 2024 winter wheat crop and the challenges it presented this year. Despite strong yields, they were slightly lower than those in 2023. John also shares his perspective of why Illinois wheat growers are seeing steady improvements in winter wheat yields.  The discussion shifts to double-crop soybeans, highlighting John’s experiences growing them after winter wheat and current crop conditions. He also explains his systems approach to growing corn, wheat, and double-crop soybeans, detailing how this method integrates different crops for optimal results. To wrap up, John highlights a major new initiative from the Illinois Wheat Association, urging all Illinois wheat growers to get involved.

  48. 35

    Will It Be a Long Harvest?

    In this episode, the IL Soy Envoys discuss early harvest reports and plans for the next growing season. Soybeans are maturing quickly, and while some harvests have started with strong early yields, concerns about dry beans and a long season persist. There are reports of white mold, stalk rot, and anthracnose, but tar spot isn’t a major issue. The IL Soy Envoys seeing a wide range of yields, and despite some wet areas, a big crop is expected. Questions around lime, fertility, and soil tests are increasing, and they emphasize the importance of using and calibrating yield monitors to diagnose problems this season. The guests in today’s podcast include Shelby Weckel, Ehler Brothers Seed; Eric Beckett, Illini FS; Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Science; Karen Corrigan, McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics; and Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association. Watch the video version of the ILSoyAdvisor podcast on YouTube or subscribe on all major podcasting platforms.

  49. 34

    Must-See Crop Moments from the 2024 Growing Season

    They say a picture is worth a thousand words—so let’s dive in! The IL Soy Envoys share their most intriguing photos from the 2024 growing season, discussing what’s happening in each shot and the lessons learned. Plus, they bring you the latest weekly crop report straight from the field. If you'd like to see the photos from today's episode, click here to watch here on YouTube. The guests in today’s podcast include Eric Beckett, Illini FS; Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Science; Karen Corrigan, McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics; Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids; Kelly Robertson, Precision Crop Services, LLC; and Stephanie Porter, Illinois Soybean Association. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association. Watch the video version of the ILSoyAdvisor podcast on YouTube or subscribe on all major podcasting platforms.

  50. 33

    A Record Crop During a Wet Year?

    USDA-NASS forecasts yields of 225 for corn and 66 for soybeans in Illinois, but are the IL Soy Envoys seeing this potential in their fields? Listen as they share crop conditions, discussing the possible need for a second fungicide pass, and addressing reports of tar spot, SDS, white mold, and more. The guests in today’s podcast include Craig Grafton, Bayer Crop Science; Karen Corrigan, McGillicuddy Corrigan Agronomics; and Drew Beckman, Beck’s Hybrids. Today’s podcast was hosted by Kelsey Litchfield, Agronomic Outreach Specialist for Illinois Soybean Association.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Field Advisor, funded by the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Checkoff Program, provides the latest agronomic information and on-farm research from local experts to help Illinois soybean producers improve yield and profitability.

HOSTED BY

Illinois Soybean Association

Produced by Kelsey Litchfield

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Field Advisor have?

Field Advisor currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Field Advisor about?

Field Advisor, funded by the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Checkoff Program, provides the latest agronomic information and on-farm research from local experts to help Illinois soybean producers improve yield and profitability.

How often does Field Advisor release new episodes?

Field Advisor has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Field Advisor?

You can listen to Field Advisor on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Field Advisor?

Field Advisor is created and hosted by Illinois Soybean Association.
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