Mark Bomleny, crop specialist for Ag View FS headquartered in Princeton, volunteered to lead the project for not one but two teams in District 1 of the statewide competition. Ag View FS, under his leadership, sponsored both teams during the season long project. Bomleny was involved in canvassing potential growers, educating them regarding the protocols, performing many hours of due diligence with field work such as soil testing and tissue sampling, and finally gathering the yield data and submission to ISA.

“It was a busy schedule with two diverse teams, covering over five counties, but the task was worthwhile, even if we hadn’t won,” Bomleny said. “Our participating growers learned and shared together production protocols that added profitable yield. The fact that our teams placed first and second in the district was just a bonus.”

ISA‘s press release indicated that farmers and sponsors who participated were recognized for outstanding achievements as they explored different ways to boost soybean yields. A special achievement announcement was held in conjunction with the recently held Illinois Commodity Conference in Bloomington on Nov 20. At this event Bomleny accepted the certificates for his two winning teams. Cash awards will be forthcoming to all the team members of Ag View North, the first place team; and Ag View South, the second place team, from the Illinois Soybean Association.