Agronomy is the science of sustainable land management. Agronomists generate, integrate and apply science-based knowledge and principles to crops grown for food, feed, fiber, and fuel that are efficient, environmentally sound, and sustainable for future generations.
The mission of the research program is to answer corn management questions expressed
by Wisconsin farmers and industry. Although farmers are the primary clientele, the general public
ultimately benefits and pays for this program. Therefore, we consciously evaluate
impacts of this program on society and keep the public aware of how we spend their
money.
Specific objectives of this project focus on management decision-making regarding
crop productivity, quality, and production efficiency including hybrid selection,
rotation, tillage systems, and replant and yield loss damage assessments. Emphasis
is on impacts of cropping practices on grower profitability, the environment, and
natural resource conservation.
Cultural practices integrated with changing technology (i.e. plant population, planting
date, row spacing with hybrids, tillage, pest control, etc.)
Growth and development interactions with management and environment
Reactive observations and issues (primarily environmental stresses, "Opportunistic"
research i.e. frost, drought, hail)
Note: Annual weather summaries can be found in the annual Gold Book reports above.