A combine harvesting a field.

November 18, 2025

Sign up now for the 57th annual Fertilizer and Pesticide Conference Nov. 25

by Christi Mathis

CARBONDALE, Ill. — The Southern Illinois Fertilizer and Pesticide Board’s 57th annual Fertilizer and Pesticide Conference will take place Tuesday, Nov. 25, at the Doubletree Inn, 222 Potomac Boulevard, Mount Vernon, and Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Events and Outreach is still accepting registrations.

The conference will feature a variety of special presentations highlighting the most current research and practical application updates, special awards and much more. Continuing education and certification hours will be available.

Sign up in advance

The registration fee is $60 and covers lunch and sessions. SIU students pay $20.

Sign up online. Walk-in registration is allowed, but organizers encourage early registration so they can adequately plan.

Highlights of the day

A diverse array of presentations will take place throughout the event, which begins at 8 a.m. after 7:30 a.m. registration. The welcome address will come from Susan Graham, senior director of development for SIU’s College of Agricultural, Life, and Physical Sciences.

Guest speakers include:

  • Karla Gage, associate professor of weed science and plant biology at SIU, “Understanding the EPA’s Herbicide Strategy.”
  • Greg Kruger of Rosen’s Inc., “Drone Spray Applications: Future or Fantasy and What Does It Take to Get There.”
  • KJ Johnson, president of the Illinois Fertilizer and Chemical Association, “Input Industry Update for 2025-2026.”
  • Carl A. Bradley, extension professor of plant pathology at the University of Kentucky, “Research Updates on Red Crown Rot of Soybean: Are We Making Progress?”
  • Abigail A. Peterson, director of agronomy for the Illinois Soybean Association, “Illinois Soybean Production Updates.”
  • Amir Sadeghpour, associate professor of soil fertility at SIU Carbondale, “Improving Soil Through Best Management Practices.”

Albert Allen of the Midwest Agricultural Scholarship Fund and Karla Gage will also present a variety of awards and recognitions.

For additional information and details, as well as participant and vendor registrations, visit the website.

Call 618-536-7751 with questions or to register by telephone.