Ames, Iowa — N-FACT, which stands for Nitrogen Fertilizer Application Consultation Tool, will be showcased alongside new scientific research from across Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota this fall during the 25th annual Tri-State Drainage Research Forum.
“N-FACT leverages the latest advancements in cropping systems modeling with hundreds of on-farm nitrogen rate trials conducted in partnership with Iowa farmers each year,” said Mike Castellano, ISU agronomy professor and Iowa Nitrogen Initiative lead. “This free, online tool gives farmers, crop advisers and other stakeholders direct access to the insights produced by the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative.”
Research to be discussed during this year’s forum includes drainage water recycling, nutrient-reduction strategies, automated drainage systems, new decision-support approaches and projects designed to improve the management of water both within agricultural fields and downstream.
The two-day event, co-hosted by the Iowa Nutrient Research Center (INRC), kicks off with an optional field tour at 1 p.m. on Sept. 30, 2026, at the University of Minnesota Waseca Southern Research and Outreach Center. The forum will officially begin the following morning at 9 a.m. Oct. 1, 2026, at the Bass Pro Shop in Owatonna, Minnesota.
“We are excited to co-host the 25th forum as it brings together a variety of stakeholders to discuss new opportunities and learn from one another,” said Matt Helmers, INRC director and ISU Extension drainage specialist.
Additional information, including how to register for the event, can be found at z.umn.edu/drainageresearchforum.
End of release
The Iowa Nutrient Research Center (INRC) was established by the Iowa Board of Regents in response to legislation passed by the Iowa Legislature in 2013. The center pursues science-based approaches to areas that include evaluating the performance of current and emerging nutrient management practices and providing recommendations on implementing the practices and developing new practices.
The Tri-State Drainage Research Forum is brought to you by Iowa State University, South Dakota State University, and the University of Minnesota in partnership with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.