Introduction

When you consider historical crop yields and prices, farmers have remained competitive by increasing yields. These increases are a result of improved genetics, advancements in technology and more efficient cropping practices. Growers, agribusiness professionals and researchers are constantly seeking out new ways to improve crop production and ultimately enhance profitability. Historical trends show us that over time we have been very successful in making the necessary advancements/adjustments. However, when one scrutinizes the data more carefully, some trends appear.

Wheat, corn and soybeans are the states largest crops by volume. Over the past 10 years, crop yields have increased by 17.4 (35.1%), 9.4 (8.4%) and -3.2 (-8.7%) bushels per acre for wheat, corn and soybeans respectively. Soybean yields have decreased in Michigan, contrary to the national average (increase of 6.8%).

The impact to the soybean industry is compounded by the fact that soybean acreage statewide has increased by 450,000 (30%) acres over the past 10 years. With the onset of new insect and disease pressures like soybean aphid and soybean rust, a renewed effort in managing the soybean crop is a must if soybean growers are to remain profitable.

There could be a number of reasons, both agronomic and economic, for the decline in yields including late application of herbicides, not getting the crop planted on time, insect or disease pressure, improperly calibrated equipment resulting in uneven emergence and poor stand, failure to identify and plant high producing varieties, lagging genetic performance, etc. There is some sound scientific research to address many of these concerns, but maybe not all of them. Another problem could be that the information is not being communicated properly with the growers. Some growers are consistently above average and some are below.

A survey was conducted to identify what practices are being followed by the growers that consistently produce high yields. Grower’s attitudes and perceptions were identified. The purpose of the survey was to compile this information and use it to make decisions about how to proceed with future research and educational programs. Researchers have spent a great deal of time and energy identifying solutions to many of the problems growers face. Perhaps we need to spend more time disseminating the information we already have or quantifying the impact of a particular mis-management decision in dollars and cents.

A working group was organized to identify and address the issues being faced by the soybean industry in Michigan. This group includeed representatives from Michigan Farm Bureau, MSU Extension, Michigan Department of Agriculture, Michigan Soybean Promotion Committee, Michigan Agri-Business Association and growers.