Today’s farm challenges the hot topic at the 10th Annual Monty’s Farm Forum

More than 100 farmers and dealers from around the country gathered for Monty’s 10^th annual Farm Forum the week of the 2016 National Farm Machinery Show. The forum provided educational sessions and lively discussions by leading experts from around the country.

The theme of this year’s meeting, held on February 11 and 12, was “We are on a Roll!” – which was a reflection of Monty’s ongoing growth and success over the years. The forum featured seasoned industry experts discussing issues that growers and dealers face in today’s complicated market and industry. Guest speakers included Steve Blanford, distinguished USDA State Soil Specialist; Joe Dedman, Monty’s Vice President of Agronomy; Dr. Ron Heiniger, North Carolina State Department of Crop Science; Dr. Dewey Lee, Professor of Crop and Soil Sciences at the University of Georgia; and Ray Tucker, an experienced Kentucky farmer.

The program commenced with a presentation by Steve Blanford on the impact soil health has on crop production, water management and water quality. Blanford focused on soil structure and how to restore good structure and health to depleted soils. He described the ability of well managed soils to sustain their intended use: maximizing the soils’ potential to grow crops.

Next, Joe Dedman, who has more than 20 years of experience as a certified crop advisor, gave growers tips on how to maximize their yield by nourishing their soil. He spoke not only about problems in the soil, but solutions as well – especially the importance of maintaining a healthy soil.

When asked about the event, Dedman observed: “This year’s Farm Forum was a fantastic opportunity for our growers and dealers to come together and discuss issues from the field. In this our 10^th year, everyone had a great time networking and benefiting from the educational presentations.”

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Dr. Heiniger’s presentation was focused on precision agriculture and remote sensing. He advised growers on how to conduct successful wheat and corn trials to maximize yields. This was based on his own trials conducted in North Carolina.

Dr. Dewey Lee discussed growing 500-bushel corn and higher yielding crops. His area of study is in crop physiology and management for corn and wheat producers. “It takes a good environment and lots of inputs and hard work to yield almost twice the national average,” Lee said. “However, with wise decisions, good soils, good timing and a good environment, this is happening in some fields all over the United States.” Lee then walked growers through how he has been able to have so much success on his farm.

The final presentation was given by Ray Tucker, a grower from Shelbyville, Kentucky, who has experienced unprecedented results on his farm. Tucker attributed much of his success to Monty’s products and testified to the difference those products have made over the past five years.

The next morning Joe Dedman hosted a session on humic substances and their use in agriculture. This was an opportunity for growers and dealers to learn more about humics and soil health, ask questions, and have one-on-one discussions regarding humic based products.

Growers who attended the event also found it to be a very enriching experience. “From our hotel room, meals, meeting, and fellowship, you showed us exceptional hospitality,” said an attendee. “Not only did you do everything in your power make us feel welcome, your meeting was also very informative. It is a rarity today to see a company show appreciation not only to their employees, but to their customers as well. Your employees are a reflection of your company, Monty’s will definitely be a company that we continue to buy from.”

Click below to see more of  2016 Farm Forum photos.

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