This project will deliver multiple things to multiple distinct groups of people:
To soybean producers: we will provide free SCN sampling, sample analysis and individualized research-based management recommendations. As a result, this will be a hyper-local way for communities to see first-hand the value the soybean check-off provides to farmers.
To soybean producers and ag service providers alike: The ‘30,000 foot view’ of incidence and severity of SCN in farm fields sampled as part of this program will be shared with soybean producers and other agricultural professionals in-person at winter meetings (ex. Prairie Grain Conference, Best of the Best in Wheat and Soybean Research Conferences, etc.), in print in the “On-farm Cropping Trials Northwest & West Central Minnesota and Minnesota Research Review” booklet available to producers by mail and at the Prairie Grains Conference. Results will also be shared digitally through posts in the Cropping Issues in Northwest Minnesota and Minnesota Crop News online newsletters and mailing lists.
To FFA teachers and students: We will develop and provide a free SCN curriculum and sample collection kit to participating FFA chapters. We will provide guidance as teachers and students participate in an applied research project and learn how to contextualize and share sample results and recommendations with participating farmers. Students that participate in the Minnesota SCN Squad program will also receive a digital certificate of participation that they can print and display or use when applying for awards and scholarships.
To other community members: Community members will be informed about this project, the semi-local results of this project, FFA student-involvement and the Minnesota Research & Promotion Council as funders through press-releases printed in local papers.
To potential future employers of these students: We will help these future workers develop hands-on skills as they collect soil samples and interpret and communicate SCN sample results to soybean producers.