Register now to attend March 11-12 No-Till Oklahoma Conference

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Agricultural producers interested in exploring how no-till practices may benefit their operations should register now to attend the seventh annual No-Till Oklahoma Conference set for March 11-12 in Norman.

“No-till management has proven to be a success in most crop rotations in the Southern Plains, especially where water is the primary factor limiting crop productivity,” said Jason Warren, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension soil and water conservation-management specialist. “Think of the conference as one-stop shopping, with discussions and educational sessions providing insights that should prove useful to beginning and experienced producers alike.”

The conference will take place at the National Center for Employee Development, located at 2801 East State Highway Nine on the south side of Norman. Cost is $115 per participant if registering by Feb. 25 and $140 thereafter.

“Although we will be accepting registration at the door, we ask everyone to pre-register if possible as it greatly aids in our planning and helps ensure sufficient numbers of conference materials, meals and break refreshments are available,” Warren said.

Registration forms and agenda information are available online at http://www.notill.okstate.edu through the OSU Division of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

Conference sessions will be led by experienced no-till producers and agricultural specialists from industry, academia and applicable government agencies.

Session topics will include the latest science-based practices and information relative to intensive wheat management, soil health, nutrient management, new RMA rules for cover crops, cover crop water use, growing and maintaining a canola stand, the yield potential of grain sorghum in crop rotations, rotational considerations for plant disease in canola and wheat systems, the impact of gypsum and lime on no-till soil pH and aluminum toxicity, the economics of no-till versus conventional tillage practices, among others.

“No-till is most successful when a systems-based approach is used that actively considers various factors including residue management, pest management, crop rotation, soil fertility and health, in addition to profitability,” Warren said. “The conference can provide insights into each of these important aspects.”

Lodging expenses at the center are not included in the conference registration fee. Reservations may be made by calling the center’s hotel at 405-447-9000, extension zero.

Anyone needing additional information about the March 11-12 No-Till Oklahoma Conference should contact Janelle Malone of the OSU Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at 405-744-3669.