(KIWA Staff Photo)Sioux Center, Iowa (Sioux County Radio) — Dordt University is inviting the public to explore the latest advancements in agricultural research during an open house at its Agriculture Stewardship Center this Thursday, September 10th, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. The facility is located just north of Sioux Center on Highway 75.
In a recent interview, Dordt senior plant science majors Ava Van Groningen and Lauren Huizinga said the university is shifting to an open-house format designed for the entire community.
The showcase will feature five research initiatives blending crop science, livestock management, and emerging agricultural technology. Demonstrations include:
- Premier Communications’ smart-farm Wi-Fi network
- Dairy management software from VAS
- Crop Voice camera-based early weed detection
- An animal-health feeding trial targeting yeast and mold reduction, conducted by Van Beek Natural Sciences and Dordt students
Attendees will also see student-led field trials. Van Groningen, Huizinga, and classmate Gregory are conducting a year-and-a-half-long study on a 2.2-acre test plot examining an addition intercropping system that pairs standard corn populations with red clover.
Beyond agronomic advantages like weed suppression and soil fertility, the team is evaluating the trial’s economic viability and potential for cattle grazing after harvest.
Presentations will repeat three times throughout the evening, allowing attendees to visit multiple sessions, tour the test fields, and enjoy complimentary ice cream sponsored by Premier Communications.
