To undertake a strategy to improve soybean production in Illinois, researchers need to understand the practices farmers are using, what factors are limiting yield and their attitudes towards adopting technology and change. To achieve this, a baseline characterization of management practices will be conducted to identify needs and to create a framework for directing applied research and technology transfer efforts. Periodic use of surveys allows creating of a database to monitor trends and to develop a communication channel with Illinois farmers. Differences in climate, topography, and soils result in different cropping systems across the state. The study will be organized around crop reporting districts.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, extension specialists