PANA, Ill. — To help area agricultural producers learn about the latest research on water quality, conservation practices, and related topics, the Dudley Smith Initiative is hosting a research plot tour this June with University of Illinois Extension. The guided tour is a rare opportunity to see the technology and methods used in collecting research data up close. Topics discussed will include tile drainage, water quality, use of bioreactors, and field-scale conservation management and implications for water quality.
The 2026 Summer Field Day will be Wednesday, June 17. Sign in begins at 9 a.m., and the walking tour will start at 9:30 a.m. Dudley Smith Farm is located at 2200 E. 600 North Rd., off Route 29 between Taylorville and Pana. The tour will be on the northeast side of the farm, so attendees should park along E. 700 North Rd.
The event is free and open to the public; light refreshments will be provided. Registration is required by Friday, June 12. Find the full agenda, speakers, and registration at go.illinois.edu/DSFFieldDay26. As this is a walking tour, seating will be limited. Attendees may bring a lawn chair and should dress appropriately for the weather and walking.
The Dudley Smith Initiative supports innovative University of Illinois research and outreach that advance its fundamental goal of invigorating Illinois' agricultural system. Research projects at the Dudley Smith Farm embrace technological advancements while also addressing the long-term stewardship and sustainability of agricultural practices.
If you have questions or need a reasonable accommodation to attend this program, contact the Christian County Extension Office at 217-287-7246 or email Cassie O’Connell at coconne@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet access needs.
University of Illinois Extension develops educational programs, extends knowledge, and builds partnerships to support people, communities, and their environments as part of the state's land-grant institution. Extension serves as the leading public outreach effort for University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences in all 102 Illinois counties through a network of 27 multi-county units and over 500 staff statewide. Extension’s mission is responsive to eight strategic priorities — community, economy, environment, food and agriculture, health, partnerships, technology and discovery, and workforce excellence — that are served through five program areas — 4-H youth development, agriculture and agribusiness, community and economic development, health and community wellness, and natural resources, environment, and energy.