By Blake Jackson
According to Hannah Burke, Organic Extension Intern at Penn State Extension, the Agronomic Field Diagnostic Clinic held on July 16, 2026, at the Penn State Agronomy Research Farm brought together farmers, Extension educators, and agricultural professionals for a day of hands-on learning and research demonstrations.
The event featured workshops led by Penn State researchers covering key agronomic topics, including manure management, western corn rootworm control, soil health, and digital agriculture technologies. Participants had the opportunity to explore current research findings and see practical applications in the field.
One session examined how different manure application methods influence nitrogen availability. Researchers compared low-disturbance injection, dribble bar, broadcast application, and untreated plots. Results showed that injection conserved the highest amount of inorganic nitrogen, while broadcast applications retained the least.
The findings highlighted how application methods can affect nutrient efficiency and future fertilizer needs. Participants also learned about research indicating that drag hose systems can be used in corn fields through the V4 growth stage.
Another workshop focused on western corn rootworm, a pest that has developed resistance to multiple management strategies over time.
Participants evaluated roots from untreated corn, SmartStax hybrids, and SmartStax Pro hybrids to assess damage levels and gain a better understanding of rootworm management challenges.
The clinic also introduced the Open Crop Manager, a free digital platform that allows farmers to record field observations, pest pressure, diseases, weeds, and other crop stressors using either a computer or an offline mobile application. The tool is designed to improve crop diagnostics and support data-driven management decisions.
A soil health workshop emphasized the benefits of incorporating perennial forages such as alfalfa and grasses into crop rotations.
Participants compared soils from different systems and observed improvements in soil structure, water infiltration, earthworm activity, and overall health associated with perennial crops.
"One of the greatest benefits of attending the Diagnostic Field Day was the chance to observe hands-on demonstrations and research field plots. This allowed participants to compare crop management practices as well as evaluate their effectiveness," said Erin Cuprinka, a Penn State Extension Educator.
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Categories: Pennsylvania, Crops, Corn