The 2026 Crop Advantage Series will take place at 12 locations across the state Jan. 6–29. Each meeting will feature tailored topics selected based on local growing conditions and challenges, presented by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach specialists.

The meetings are designed to provide farmers and crop production professionals across the state with the latest research-based information to help them make informed decisions for the upcoming growing season. Topics on this year’s agendas include crop market and climate outlooks for 2026, nitrates and drinking water, profitable nutrient management, southern rust, transition planning, robots and drones and more.

Dates and locations for the 2026 Crop Advantage Series are:

• Jan. 6 – Sioux Center         
• Jan. 7 – Storm Lake
• Jan. 8 – Burlington  
• Jan. 9 – Mason City
• Jan. 13 – Estherville
• Jan. 15 – Waterloo  
• Jan. 16 – Davenport
• Jan. 21 – Ankeny
• Jan. 22 – Atlantic     
• Jan. 27 – Iowa City 
• Jan. 28 – Le Mars   
• Jan. 29 – Carroll

“Our goal is always to prepare producers to manage potential issues when they arise, or even before they arise, by sharing the most up-to-date scientific knowledge from Iowa State University researchers,” said Josh Michel, field agronomist with ISU Extension and Outreach. “Each location’s program is unique as content is driven by local needs and production issues.”

Early-bird registration pricing is $75 until the week before each meeting. Late or on-site registration is $100. Registration includes refreshments and lunch, certified crop advisor credits and access to resources. Private pesticide applicator recertification will also be available at each location for a separate fee of $30, which will be collected on-site.

Registration and additional information is available on the Crop Advantage Series registration site.

For more information on the 2026 Crop Advantage Series meetings, contact crops@iastate.edu or your regional ISU Extension and Outreach field agronomist.