Ames, Iowa, USA
September 21, 2010
Thirty-two percent of conventional farmers wish their seed company offered more non-GMO options, according to the Farm Journal Summer 2010-on-line poll of readers in May of this year. But where are improved non-GMO corn hybrids available? Come learn and connect with seed salesmen, farmers, and corn breeders who are increasing the number of non-GMO (conventional and organic) corn hybrid options in the market today at a Practical Farmers of Iowa and US Testing Network field day on Thursday, September 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Ames, IA.
The US Testing Network, or USTN, coordinates a rigorous testing program to evaluate public and private corn germplasm. The USTN is primarily concerned with the evaluation of germplasm being developed for the organic and non-transgenic grain industry. To reach that purpose the USTN’s members provide corn to be tested, provide locations for testing and/or financial support. The USTN is a membership organization founded in 2009.
This field day is free and the public is invited. Lunch will be provided. RSVP is suggested to Sarah Carlson at sarah@practicalfarmers.org or (515) 232-5661.
Attendees will have the opportunity to view the newest conventional and organic corn hybrids, listen to a USDA research grant update, participate in a Corn Disease and Corn Insect I.D. workshop, and hear presentations from seed retailers, production specialists, and other exhibitors involved in the non-GMO marketplace.
Directions: From Hwy 35 in Ames, travel West on Hwy 30 for 5 miles to the ISU Agronomy Research Farm. Turn left (South) on U Ave. Look for signs to the turquoise Morton Building.
Thank you to the following 2010 Practical Farmers of Iowa field day sponsors: Sysco, Albert Lea Seed House, Iowa State University, American Natural Soy, Seed Savers Exchange, Leopold Center, Midwest Organic & Sustainable Education Service (MOSES), Iowa Forage and Grassland Council, Organic Valley & Organic Prairie CROPP Cooperative, Featherman, Blue River Hybrids, Iowa Farmers Union, Wheatsfield Cooperative, Wallace Chair for Sustainable Agriculture, and ATTRA.
Practical Farmers of Iowa includes a diverse group of farmers and nonfarmers. Corn, soybeans, beef cattle, and hay are the top enterprises for PFI farmers, although many have a variety of other operations, including fruits and vegetables. PFI’s programming stresses farmer-to-farmer networking through research and demonstration, field days, conferences, and more. For more information, call (515) 232-5661 or visit www.practicalfarmers.org.
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