Business : Organic Field Day Set for Aug. 26 at Neely-Kinyon Research Farm in Greenfield

Organic growers and those interested in transitioning to organic production can learn more about the latest research from the Iowa State University Organic Ag Program during a field day on Aug. 26 near Greenfield.

The event will be held at Iowa State's Neely-Kinyon Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm, located at 2557 Norfolk Ave. in Greenfield, from 4 to 6 p.m., and will include a light meal featuring local and organic foods.

Researchers from Iowa State University and the United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service will discuss best practices for producing organic corn, soybeans, wheat and rye. The topics will include fertilization, weed management and the use of different crop rotations in organic systems.

"We have had a very challenging season, with excess rain and cooler than average temperatures," said Kathleen Delate, extension organic specialist at Iowa State. "All corn and soybean fields were replanted in June because of poor emergence in the cold spring. This was the first time in the 27-year history of the Long-Term Agroecological Research site that the trial was replanted. With that hurdle behind us, the crops look really good, and we hope for a good harvest."

The Neely-Kinyon Long-Term Agroecological Research site enters its 27th year of experimentation, which was started in 1998 to examine suitable crop rotations that provide high yields, grain quality and adequate soil fertility for organic farmers.

At the field day, Sabrina Ruis, USDA soil scientist, will share her findings from soil analyses she conducts annually in the LTAR. Organic farmer, Ron Rosmann, of Rosmann Family Farm in Harlan, will share about the resilience of organic systems through diversification, including small grains and livestock.

Participants will also learn about the USDA National Organic Program's Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program, which will help producers overcome technical, cultural and financial shifts during and after organic certification. Anyone interested in transitioning to organic production can receive free mentorship through this program.

To reach the farm, begin by heading 2 miles south on Highway 25 after the intersection with Highway 92 in Greenfield. Then, turn left onto 260th Street and continue east for 1 mile until you reach Norfolk Avenue. Turn right onto Norfolk Avenue and head north for half a mile. The farm, marked by a red barn, will be on your left.

This event is supported through a grant from the USDA National Organic Program Transitioning to Organic Partnership Program.

This event is available at no cost to those who wish to attend, but online registration is requested.

For more information, contact Kathleen Delate at kdelate@iastate.edu or 515-294-7069.