By Blake Jackson
The Kentucky Corn Promotion Council (KYCPC) Research Committee recently convened at the Hardin County Extension Office to evaluate and approve funding for various agricultural research projects.
These initiatives aim to enhance corn production and profitability for Kentucky farmers. Approximately 20% of the checkoff funds are allocated annually to research efforts that tackle key issues such as pest control, sustainability, soil health, and market opportunities in the corn industry.
This year, researchers proposed 10 projects targeting specific challenges in corn farming across Kentucky. Collaborating with the University of Kentucky (UK), the studies focus on diverse topics, including weed management, soil nutrient deficiencies, and technological advancements.
Highlights of the projects include:
- Assessing Italian ryegrass control methods in corn fields
- Screening herbicide-resistant weeds using molecular markers
- Testing single and dual-mode-of-action insecticides for effectiveness in Bt and non-Bt corn varieties
- Investigating sulfur deficiencies in corn production
- Utilizing innovative technology to measure soil bulk density variability
- Evaluating long-term carbon sequestration benefits of no-tillage systems
- Examining the impact of barley and legume cover crops on nitrogen use efficiency
- Ground-truthing drone-applied fungicide effectiveness
- Determining how delayed nitrogen applications affect yield potential
Dr. John Grove, a plant and soil sciences professor at UK, also presented updates on the AGR-1 Lime and Fertilizer Recommendations.
This guide helps Kentucky farmers optimize nutrient applications for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The research aims to improve crop yields while supporting environmental sustainability.
These projects represent Kentucky Corn’s commitment to advancing the state’s corn industry both nationally and globally. Insights from the studies are expected to directly benefit farmers, enhancing their productivity and profitability while fostering sustainable agricultural practices.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Crops, Corn