AMES — The past year was one of transition and new beginnings for the Research and Demonstration Farms operated by Iowa State University.
At the leadership level, Kendall Lamkey was named research farms director and associate dean for facilities and operations for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in May. Lamkey’s appointment follows the retirement of director Mark Honeyman, who retired in 2022.
Lamkey previously served as chair of the Department of Agronomy at Iowa State, and said he looks forward to showcasing the farms and the work being done by specialists.
“The research farms are a huge asset for the university and the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences,” said Lamkey. “They’re an avenue for our faculty to execute their research, teaching and extension programs, and they’re also an avenue for our demonstration projects in extension.”
Research topics
This year’s research included topics related to crop and livestock production, drought management, soil health and fertility, pasture management, fencing and grazing, as well as weed and insect management.
Iowa State held more than 100 field days at its 15 farms in 2023, with demonstrations led by specialists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach. The farms are located across the state, giving farmers and the general public the opportunity to interact with researchers and view the latest in modern agriculture.
“I see the farms as Iowa State outposts,” said Lamkey. “They are representations of what happens on campus and in the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.”
Something for everyone
Lamkey said he was especially impressed with the turnout for the field days held at the Horticulture Research Station, just north of Ames. The Fall Field Day, held in September in partnership with Iowa Public Radio, drew more than 250 people.
He said the horticulture field days are popular among producers and also members of the community who simply want to learn more about horticulture and food production.
Tim Goode, research farms manager at Iowa State, said the farms continue to be a popular destination for people of all ages and backgrounds. Several events were youth-specific, exposing youth to careers in agriculture, as well as farm safety.
“Many of our Iowa youth don’t have grandparents on the farm anymore, so the research farms are a great way to expose them to where their food comes from and the work being done by Iowa State University,” said Goode. “Hopefully the field days inspire them, and they may someday pursue an education or a career in agriculture.”
New facilities
This was the first full year that the Southeast Research and Demonstration Farm utilized its newly constructed Research and Learning Center, an 80-by-60-foot facility that will be used to maintain and repair equipment, and also for hosting educational events.
In north central Iowa, the Northern Research and Demonstration Farm is conducting a capital campaign to construct a new facility that will including a large multi-use area, offices for farm staff, a lobby and welcome area, as well as new restrooms and a kitchenette.
The Northern Research and Demonstration Farm is the oldest of the state’s research farms. This 173-acre farm conducts research that is essential to farmers and agricultural business partners across the region. Donations are still being accepted and information about how to donate is available online.
“We look forward to the many ways these new facilities will be put to use, and the improvements they will offer our staff and the public,” said Lamkey. “Agriculture continues to change, and so do the needs of society. These modern buildings will allow us to better work on and demonstrate today’s farm equipment and educate Iowans about issues that impact their lives.”
Learn more about Iowa State’s research farms on the Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms website. Information about upcoming field days for 2024 will be available in the spring.