Wyffels Hybrids, in collaboration with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, is gearing up for the first installment of the Between the Rows – In Field Edition event series for the 2026 growing season. Hosted at Wyffels’ production facility in Ames, Iowa, this first session continues the mission of delivering cutting-edge agricultural insights through hands-on experiences and expert-led field observations.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with the latest university research and explore timely, field-based topics that blend Wyffels’ innovations with Iowa State’s academic expertise. As with previous events, the gathering is open to the public, and while registration is encouraged, it’s not required.
A complimentary grilled meal will be served at the end of the event.
June 23 Event Discussions:
Eyes in the Sky: Scaling Ag Decisions with Drone Imagery w/ ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab Team
Drone imagery is shifting from a futuristic novelty to an essential tool in the agricultural toolbox. This session explores how farmers, agronomists, and researchers are using UAVs to scout large acreages in minutes. Watch drones in action and learn how this high-resolution data can be leveraged to make more accurate, proactive in-season decisions.
Spray Drones Taking to the Skies of Iowa Presenter w/ ISU Digital Ag Innovation Lab Team
After a wet 2025 growing season highlighted gaps in traditional application methods, spray drones stepped in to help fill the void. But how do these platforms perform under varying field conditions? This session covers the fundamentals of spray drones, compares their deposition patterns to conventional application equipment, and shares practical considerations for ensuring application quality. Whether you’re interested in operating your own drone or working with a custom applicator, this session will give you the insights you need and a chance to see these drones in action.
Corn Rootworm Identification and Management Options for 2026 w/ Dr. Erin Hodgson, Iowa State University Entomologist
Corn rootworm remains one of the most destructive pests in Iowa corn production. Effectively scouting and managing CRW requires multiple methods. In this session, Dr. Erin Hodgson will discuss current management strategies and demonstrate how to identify and assess rootworm damage throughout the growing season.
Yield Isn’t Just Built at Pollination…It’s Built All Season Long w/ Andrew Swanson, Wyffels Area Agronomy Manager
It’s easy to think that once a crop is sprayed, yield potential is set until pollination, but that’s not the case. Corn growth and development throughout June and July play a critical role in determining final yield. In this session, you’ll learn how Wyffels approaches yield development through key growth stages and components across the season. Understanding what’s happening in the plant during this critical window can help you make management decisions that maximize yield potential through the remainder of the season.
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Andy Swanson is a Wyffels Hybrids Area Agronomy Manager for eastern Nebraska and southwest Iowa. Andy grew up on a farm raising hogs and row crops, and graduated from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He's spent his career in retail sales, management, and agronomy.

Dr. Erin Hodgson started working in the Department of Entomology, now the Department of Plant Pathology, Entomology and Microbiology, at Iowa State University in 2009. She is a professor with extension and research responsibilities in corn and soybeans. She has a general background in integrated pest management (IPM) for field crops