Minnesota agriculture took center stage in July 2026, as soybean Extension specialists from across the country got an up-close look at the state’s diverse cropping systems. During a three-day Science for Success meeting, the group visited Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council (MSR&PC) Director Pat Sullivan’s farm in Renville County to gain insight on soybean agronomic challenges and observing a diverse cropping system.  

“It was great to see more than 20 Extension agronomists interact with our farmer leaders and learn directly from those who are implementing these practices in the field,” Minnesota Soybean Director of Research Sergio Cabello Leiva said. “These types of meetings are important because they give scientists the opportunity to visit farms, meet farmers firsthand and have conversations with the people who are driving agriculture forward. Those conversations can lead to new ideas and collaborations.” 

Science for Success is a team of more than 20 soybean Extension specialists from across the country who collaboratively deliver research-based best management practices into the hands of U.S. soybean farmers, funded by the soy checkoff. 

“They were very generous hosts – Pat, Joe and Tim Sullivan were great tour guides for our group,” said University of Minnesota Professor and Extension Agronomist Seth Naeve. “I thought we should take advantage of being in Minnesota and I wanted our agronomists to become more familiar with our cropping systems here.” 

Throughout the farm visit many questions were asked by the soybean Extension specialists covering topics from Iron Deficiency Chlorosis (IDC), soybean cyst nematode, water drainage and other factors affecting the soybeans in Minnesota.  

“Most of these folks haven’t seen yellow soybeans,” Naeve said. 

The discussion surrounding IDC was especially meaningful for Cabello Leiva. As growers continue to ask questions about the issue this season, Cabello Leiva recently authored an article exploring IDC and its impact on soybean production.  

“Another special part of this meeting was having local Pioneer representatives join us and provide a direct connection between our council directors, Extension specialists and an agronomy company,” Cabello Leiva said. “Building those communication lines helps strengthen partnerships and creates opportunities to share knowledge across the industry.” 

Many contacts were shared between attendees through this farm visit. Everyone came with a common theme, sharing knowledge, collaboration and strengthening the industry of agriculture.  

“It was a great opportunity to host the Science for Success group and share our operation with them,” Sullivan said. “The group asked great questions, and it was valuable to sit down and discuss the research and trials they’ve been conducting in their states. Hearing what they’re seeing in the field and comparing it to what we’re experiencing here gave us ideas that we can take back and apply on our own farm.”

Science for Success is excited to announce a 2026 national webinar, “Soybeans Down the Stretch – Managing Late-Season Challenges,” addressing some of the most pressing late season challenges facing soybean producers. This single-day virtual webinar will feature leading experts from across the United States discussing strategies and the latest research to help get your soybean crop across the finish line.