The Fall Agronomy Tour at the University of Illinois Ewing Demonstration Center is set for Thursday, September 11 at 9 a.m.

"Rain has been kind to our late-planted crops, so there will be plenty to see," says Dennis Epplin, U of I Extension crop systems educator. "The complete agenda is still being developed, but two items of particular interest will be the no-till plot and QUALISOY soybeans."

Ewing Field is home to the oldest continuous no-till plot in the state. Those attending the field day will hear about the plot's performance after 40 years of no-till. The original planter modified and developed for no-till by George McKibben will also be on display.

"The second topic of interest will be the improved trait development in QUALISOY™ soybeans and what it means for future production," says Epplin.

QUALISOY is a collaborative soybean industry effort to help market the development and availability of healthier soybeans and soy oil, reduce environmental impacts of livestock production through improved soybean meal, and improve the global competitiveness of the U.S. soybean industry.

Following the field day, a complimentary lunch will be served at the Franklin-Jefferson 4-H Fairgrounds. No advance registration is needed. Watch the Southern Illinois Agriculture website, http://web.extension.uiuc.edu/regions/ag for a complete program agenda as topics are finalized.

The Ewing Demonstration Center is located approximately 12 miles northeast of Benton, Illinois. From Illinois Route 37, turn east on Ewing Road and watch for signs. If weather conditions are questionable, call 618-242-9310 before traveling to the field day.