The Kentucky Corn Promotion Council (KYCPC) Research Committee met at the Hardin County Extension Office to review and approve funding for a slate of agricultural research projects aimed at boosting corn production and profitability for Kentucky farmers. Each year, approximately 20% of the checkoff contributions are allocated to fund research that addresses challenges in production, pest management, sustainability, and market opportunities for Kentucky’s corn industry.
A total of 10 projects were proposed by researchers, and each was designed to address specific needs in Kentucky corn farming. These projects, in partnership with the University of Kentucky (UK), cover a wide range of topics from pest management to soil health. Examples include studies on weed control, insecticide efficacy, sulfur deficiencies, and innovative technology for determining soil bulk density.
Presented projects:
- Continuing to Evaluate Italian Ryegrass Control in Corn
- Herbicide Resistant Weeds Rapid Screening with Molecular Markers in Kentucky
- Efficacy of Single & Double-MoA Insecticides against Lepidopteran in Bt and Non-Bt Corn & Evaluating Lures
- Understanding Sulfur Deficiencies in Kentucky Corn Production
- Innovative Technology for Assessing Soil Bulk Density Variability to Enhance Corn Production in Kentucky
- How Long Do No-Tillage Systems Benefit Kentucky Corn Growers in Sequestering Carbon in Soil?
- Understanding the Need for Sulfur in Kentucky Corn Production
- Using Barley and Legume Cover Crops to Reduce the Nitrogen Penalty to Corn: YEAR 2
- Ground-truthing Drone Fungicide Efficacy.
- Split/Delayed N: How Late and Still Maintain Maximum Yield Potential?
Dr. John Grove, professor of plant and soil sciences at UK, also provided an update on the AGR-1 Lime and Fertilizer Recommendations, a resource for Kentucky farmers on nutrient management. This ongoing research will continue to refine recommendations for optimal nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) application, with the goal of maximizing crop yields while maintaining environmental sustainability.
As these research initiatives begin, KY Corn remains committed to advancing Kentucky’s position in the national and global corn market. The findings from these studies will provide insights that directly benefit farmers, potentially increasing both their productivity and profitability.