The NDSU Dickinson Research Extension Center will host two major field days on July 8 and July 14. Field days are part of a continuing effort to help agricultural operators find solutions to production practices.
"The events will focus on innovative cropping systems research being conducted at the Dickinson Research Extension Center headquarters, ranch and off-site locations," says Frank Kutka, assistant director of the center. "For more than 100 years, the Dickinson Research Extension Center has maintained close relationships with area producers. These field days are opportunities for us to network our center with the producers, public and fellow scientists who are seeking methods and information about agricultural advancements."
The July 8 event is the traditional field day hosted by the center. The event features presentations and research on conventional agricultural practices. The Dickinson Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Committee and more than 100 businesses in southwestern North Dakota co-sponsor the field day. More than 1,200 people have attended this event each year.
Research on cropping systems and variety trials will be presented.
"We are conducting research in many areas and with many variations to find real solutions to issues producers face," says Kris Ringwall, center director. "This is our major open house of the year."
In an effort to continue to reach out to producers and consumers, the center will host an inaugural organic field day on July 14. The event is a cooperative venture involving researchers and producers from across the United States, according to Pat Carr, Dickinson Research Extension Center agronomist.
Researchers from universities and private institutions in Iowa, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, Wisconsin and North Dakota will present data during the event. Organic producers also will present data from their own operations.
"We expect to have presentations and participation from producers who are at the forefront of the learning curve," Carr says. "The organic field day will provide information that will be useful for organic and conventional growers."
For more information, contact the Dickinson Research Extension Center at (701) 483-2348.
June 1, 2009