Weekly Update: 03.23.23

ILLINOIS BROADBAND CONNECTIONS LISTENING TOUR 

The Illinois Office of Broadband and the University of Illinois recently hosted a series of listening sessions to better understand rural residents’ experiences, needs, and priorities when it comes to broadband access. The feedback collected will help to build upon previous surveys on broadband access in the region.  

SECOND ANNUAL FFA WATER TESTING CHALLENGE 

IL Corn and ISA have teamed up to offer the second annual FFA Water Testing Challenge, where participants can learn about the Illinois Nutrient Loss Reduction Strategy and conservation practices that can be implemented to reduce nutrient loss. If you are interested in participating, contact Megan Dwyer at mdwyer@ilcorn.org. 

ISA SEES BAYER SOYBEAN RESEARCH IN PUERTO RICO 

This week, members of the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) Executive Committee are visiting one of ISA’s corporate partners, Bayer, at their site in Puerto Rico. There, they had the opportunity to visit the soybean greenhouse, seed processing area, and open field to learn about Bayer’s processes and day-to-day operations.

ILLINOIS NREC SEEKING RESEARCH PROPOSALS 

The Illinois Nutrient Research and Education Council (NREC) recently announced that they are accepting research proposals until May 15. NREC’s priority is to fund projects that advance the science of products and practices that increase the efficiency of nutrient use while maintaining productivity goals. 

The soybean cyst nematode is one of soy’s most challenging enemies. Jason Bond, a plant pathologist at Southern Illinois University and ISA partner researcher, has focused his research on nematology and fungi. ISA recently funded one of Bond’s projects that explores another way to support SCN management.