Strengthen farm management decisions by attending the Oglesby Agronomy Summit
University of Illinois Extension is holding the annual Oglesby Agronomy Summit this winter to provide producers with the latest agronomic research updates and equip them with information that will empower them in their farm decision-making.
Continuing education units are available for Certified Crop Advisers at this in-person event. The event will be held at the Illinois Valley Community College, Room CTC-124/125. The cost to attend is $30, and registration is required. Registration includes all presentations, light refreshments, and lunch.
For questions or to request accommodations, contact Emily Hansen at emhansen@illinois.edu or 815-224-0896.
Oglesby Agronomy Summit Presentations
Bio-what? Biostimulants, Biologicals, Biofertilizers: Reviewing the Market and Tips to Their Use - Connor Sible, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- The bio-product market space has expanded rapidly in recent years, with each company selling a unique bio-based product “perfect for your farm’s needs.” After nine years of trials with different product types utilized in corn and soybean systems, the session will review how these products and terminology differ, what we now know about using these products in the field, and what the key questions are to ask before implementing a product on a farm.
Agricultural Mental Health: Extension Resources for Individuals and Communities, Josie Rudolphi
- Learn about current research related to agricultural mental health and resources available through Illinois Extension for individuals and communities.
Pesticide Regulatory Update for Illinois Farmers, Corey Lacey
- Significant changes are coming to pesticide regulations. This session will discuss those changes and how farmers can prepare. Review the EPA’s herbicide and insecticide strategies, explain how updated Endangered Species Act labels are influencing on-farm decisions are, and outline expected changes to the applicator license renewal through continuing education. Learn and discuss more about the regulatory landscape in Springfield, and any insight Illinois farmers need to know.
Nitrogen and Sulfur Management Update, Giovani Preza Fontes
- This presentation will review past and current research on nitrogen and sulfur fertilizer management in Illinois.
Dealing with Wind and Water in Illinois, Trent Ford
- The session discusses the 4 "Ds" of wind and water extremes in Illinois: derechos, dust storms, drought, deluge, and highlights soil and water management strategies to deal with these impactful events.
About Agronomy Summits
Expanding from one event in northern Illinois to now eight, Illinois Extension Agronomy Summits are touring throughout the state in winter 2026. Attendees can expect sessions filled with the latest research updates from crop science experts at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, Illinois Extension, as well as additional university and industry professionals.
Additional 2026 Agronomy Summit Locations
- Peoria Agronomy Summit | Jan. 12
- Southeastern Agronomy Summit | Fairfield, Jan. 22
- Northwest Illinois Agronomy Summit | Freeport, Jan. 28
- Southwestern Agronomy Summit | Waterloo, Feb. 3
- Joliet Agronomy Summit | Feb. 10
- Springfield Agronomy Summit | Feb. 17
- Clark County Agronomy Summit | Feb. 24