On August 13, 2025, the Rosemount Research and Outreach Center (Rosemount ROC) welcomed farmers, researchers, students, and community members to its annual Field Day—an event that celebrated agricultural research, sustainable practices, and the power of collaboration between the University and the wider community.
The event spotlighted a diverse range of ongoing research and practical demonstrations aimed at improving the future of farming in Minnesota and beyond. Blake Webster, Director of the Rosemount ROC, provided site statistics and updates on Advisory Council business.
Focus Areas Showcased:
- Manure Management Research: Melissa Wilson, associate professor and extension specialist at the University of Minnesota, and her team shared findings from ongoing studies that examine how manure can be used more efficiently as a fertilizer—improving soil health, reducing runoff, and helping farmers maximize nutrient use while minimizing environmental impact.
- Agronomy and Plant Genetics: Alexander Hard, Researcher 3 for the Wells Lab at the University of Minnesota, presented research exploring wide-row corn interseeded with forages. Alex’s research highlighted how corn and forages can be relayed in a field, allowing grazing land to be available post-harvest for cattle and other animals. Additional benefits of this research include weed suppression and continuous soil cover through cover cropping.
- Technology in Action – Rowbot Systems: Kent Cavender-Bares, CEO and co-founder of Rowbot Systems, and his team showcased their precision agriculture vehicle designed for in-field accessibility. This technology demonstrated how innovation can support more efficient nutrient application while reducing labor and fuel costs. This collaboration reflects Rosemount ROC’s commitment to connecting cutting-edge technology with practical, on-farm applications.
A Hub for Research, Learning, and Outreach
Rosemount ROC is more than just a research site, it’s a vital hub where the University of Minnesota connects its academic research to real-world agriculture. Rosemount ROC supports a wide range of interdisciplinary studies, from soil health and precision agriculture to water quality and climate adaptation.
For farmers, it’s a place to see and test new practices in action. For students, it’s a living laboratory where they gain hands-on experience in agronomy, environmental science, and ag engineering. And for the broader community, it's a bridge between the university and the field, demonstrating the value of science in solving real agricultural challenges.
Written by Isabella Ciarico