Managed Research Areas

The primary goal of the Illinois Soybean Checkoff's investment in research is to increase soybean farmer opportunities for greater yields, better pest and disease control, and expanded market options. About 40% of the Checkoff's budget is invested in research, more specifically, managed research that aims to solve specific production problems while increasing collaboration among researchers.

Through managed research, the Checkoff is able to focus its funding on issues ranging from weed management to swine nutrition in order to make progress quickly. Checkoff directors target research needs based on farmer priorities, so researchers are focused on the challenge at hand.

After the study topics are chosen, farmers, researchers, and advisors familiar with national and state programs then form a research team. One or two scientists serve as team leaders. Together, team leaders and members study the priorities, set the team's objectives, and tailor the studies to meet the objectives.

Managed research currently encompasses the following areas: