By Scout Nelson
North Dakota State University Extension is organizing the 2026 Oakes Crop Shop Talks to provide farmers, agronomists, students, and crop scouts with valuable information about crop production and crop protection. The event will take place on March 17 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. CT at the NDSU Oakes Irrigation Research Site located about 4.5 miles south of Oakes along U.S. Highway 1 South.
The program focuses on improving field knowledge before the growing season begins. Participants will learn about crop management practices, pest identification, fertilizer use, and current research related to major crops grown in the region.
Morning refreshments and lunch will be provided for participants through the support of several agricultural organizations. Sponsors include General Irrigation and Dewatering, Hoffman Irrigation, CHS Dakota Plains Ag, AgTegra Cooperative, Four Star Ag, and BankNorth. Visitors attending the event will also have an opportunity to view the new headquarters building that is currently under construction at the research site.
The event will feature presentations from North Dakota State University Extension specialists and graduate students. These speakers will share research findings and practical examples from field studies. The program begins with welcome remarks from Dr. Thomas Miorini, Agronomist and Site Manager at the Oakes Irrigation Research Site.
Several important crop topics will be discussed during the event. Presentations include the history of the Robert Titus Irrigation Farm, canola agronomy practices, and research on biological products used to control white mold in soybean crops. Other sessions will focus on evaluating nitrogen fertilizer applications, identifying tar spot disease, and understanding fungicide research in corn production.
A technology demonstration session will also be included. Dr. Wade Webster will demonstrate tools such as NDAWN predictive models and a white mold soybean return on investment tool that helps farmers evaluate crop management decisions.
The event will conclude with lunch and an open discussion session moderated by Dr. Jeff Stachler from the NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center.
A report on Agricultural Research and Extension in Central North Dakota (Dec 2025), including crop variety comparison data from the 2025 season in Oakes, will be available for interested attendees. The program will also provide the 2026 North Dakota management guides for insects, diseases, and weeds.
Individuals who cannot attend in person may join the program through a virtual option by registering online. For additional information, interested participants may contact Barbara Nilles (barbara.nilles@ndsu.edu).
The event offers a valuable opportunity for farmers and young crop professionals to strengthen their knowledge before the upcoming planting season.
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Education