Innovation Grants Drive On-Farm Results
From variable-rate fertility trials to on-farm soil health demonstrations, Minnesota Corn’s Innovation Grant program puts farmer ideas to work across the state. In 2024, participating farmers hosted field days and shared results with more than 125 growers, agronomists, and local partners. These farmer-led projects, supported by university and agency collaborators, combine practical experience with scientific analysis to test new tools, practices, and technologies.
– Peter Anthony (Anthony Farms, Nicollet County) partnered with Dr. Yuxin Miao (UMN) to evaluate variable-rate nitrogen management in manure-applied corn fields, finding that precision N strategies improved profitability by up to 15% and boosted nitrogen-use efficiency while reducing overall fertilizer rates.
– Les Anderson (Goodhue County) tested Pivot Bio as a nitrogen replacement in corn production, seeing a 4–12 bushel yield advantage across multiple fields, especially under wet conditions that favored nitrogen retention.
– Dr. Kirk Stueve (Stueve Ag Enterprises, Traverse County) partnered with Dr. Yuxin Miao (UMN) to evaluate variable-rate sulfur application across multiple on-farm sites, identifying site-specific yield and profit gains and demonstrating the value of precision sulfur management for improving efficiency.
– Blair Hoseth (Mahnomen County) compared manure and commercial fertilizer treatments in corn production, finding comparable yields with lower input costs—saving up to $70 per acre on manure-applied ground. Hoseth also hosted a field day to share results and discuss opportunities for farmers to improve nutrient efficiency.
– Vance Johnson (Wilkin County) completed the fifth year of on-farm tillage comparisons evaluating conventional, strip-till, and no-till systems. Despite weather extremes, the site continues to show improving soil structure and infiltration under reduced tillage.
– Mikayla Tabert (Trinity Creek Ranch, Red Lake County) completed a six-year Innovation Grant study on long-term cover cropping, tracking soil health and economics across a corn–soybean–wheat–sunflower rotation. Results showed limited yield benefits and higher seed costs, but soil tests revealed greater microbial activity and potential $4 per acre nitrogen savings from improved nutrient cycling.
We extend appreciation to the farmers, researchers, and local partners who made these projects possible. Their willingness to test new ideas and share results continues to drive progress for Minnesota corn growers.
