More Illinois specialty crop growers are planting in high tunnels to extend their growing season, increase crop diversity, achieve higher yields, and improve quality. Learn about high tunnel production and how research studies on biological insect control are benefiting both the agricultural community and the environment during a free program on July 17 as part of the Summer Twilight Series.
The program will take place at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center, where participants can tour three commercial high tunnels, with one tunnel set up for hydroponic production and the other two utilizing permanent in-ground raised beds.
Since 2021, the on-site high tunnels have also served as a test site for research studies on biological insect control. Specialty Crops Entomologist Kacie Athey will discuss lessons learned from the four-year study, as well as insect identification and integrated pest management options for insect pests in high tunnels.
Local Foods and Small Farms Educator Bronwyn Aly will share observations from three years of no-till cover cropping ahead of tomato and pepper transplanting in high tunnel production, along with basic high tunnel vegetable production practices. The campus farm robotics team will be onsite to demonstrate robotic harvesting and discuss other ways to use robotic technology in a controlled environment production system.
Participants are invited to meet on Thursday, July 17, at 6 p.m. at Dixon Springs Agricultural Center at 354 IL-145, Simpson, IL 62985. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required. To register, visit go.illinois.edu/twilightseries or call 618-695-2441.
If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any upcoming events, please contact Bronwyn Aly at baly@illinois.edu. Early requests are strongly encouraged to allow sufficient time to meet your needs.
WRITER: Heather Willis, regional media communications coordinator, University of Illinois Extension, hdwillis@illinois.edu, 217-300-3972
ABOUT EXTENSION: Illinois Extension leads public outreach for University of Illinois by translating research into action plans that allow Illinois families, businesses, and community leaders to solve problems, make informed decisions, and adapt to changes and opportunities.
