A field report from MSR&PC Director of Research Sergio Cabello Leiva

As part of growing into my new role with Minnesota Soybean, in mid-May I met with Miki Miheguli, director of agronomy and research at the North Dakota Soybean Council. We had a productive conversation focused on soybean production in our neighboring states, highlighting shared challenges and opportunities.

Our discussion centered on the similarities between Minnesota and North Dakota soybean systems, from climate and soil to disease-insect pressures and grower needs. We agreed that our mission is to set clear research priorities by understanding regional challenges, engaging directly with farmers and monitoring long-term productivity.

Sergio Cabello Leiva (right) visits with the North Dakota Soybean Council during a swing through the Red River Valley.

One of our primary goals is to foster stronger collaboration between Minnesota and North Dakota by connecting researchers, growers and resources on both sides of the Red River. We share a vast, common ecoregion, and working together presents real potential to maximize the impact of our research and drive innovation in soybean production.

I look forward to continuing this important dialogue with Miki and building a lasting partnership that benefits growers in both states.

Connecting with farmers where it matters most

The following day, I had the great opportunity to visit two outstanding farmers and Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council directors in northern Minnesota: Corey Hanson and Bill Zurn.

The day began with a windy morning in Gary, Minn., where I was in the field with Corey during soybean planting. The soil moisture was ideal, and rain was on the way. We discussed the importance of maintaining soil cover, managing crop residue for soil erosion and moisture retention, and implementing other conservation practices. Corey also shared some of the key agronomic challenges he faces, including soybean cyst nematode (SCN). He emphasized the ongoing need to develop new SCN-resistant soybean varieties and the importance of increased research into iron deficiency chlorosis (IDC), especially in soils with a high calcium carbonate content, like those found in the Red River Valley.

Corey also provided valuable insights into his research priorities, including plant nutrition, weed control and other practical needs that could help drive soybean productivity in the region.

In the afternoon, I traveled to Callaway, where I met Bill Zurn while he was performing tillage. We discussed the value of new technologies and the importance of strategic crop rotation. His crop rotation includes soybeans, corn, wheat and sugarbeets, which help him effectively manage weeds, pests and diseases. As rain began to fall, Bill seized the opportunity to explain to me the benefits of the Minnesota Agricultural Water Quality Certification Program and infrastructure improvements on his farm aimed at reducing soil erosion and enhancing water management. He also expressed interest in further research on crop nutrition, inoculants and soil health.

I greatly value the time spent with experienced farmers in their working environments. These field visits provide real-time, practical insights that go beyond formal meetings. Being in the field, planting, observing and talking opens the door to meaningful discussions that shape relevant and impactful research.

I look forward to continuing to meet with farmers throughout the state, learning from their unique challenges and experiences related to various weather conditions, soil types and cropping systems. These discussions are crucial for developing a farmer-focused research strategy. Please feel free to contact me regarding any soybean-related topics or concerns.

Sergio Cabello-Leiva is director of research with the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council. For agronomic questions, comments, planting updates or to schedule an on-farm visit, contact Sergio at scabelloleiva@agmgmtsolutions.com or by calling 507-719-7645.