Field Advisor

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.

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.

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/

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.