Nominate soybean varieties for 2012 VIPS by end of Feb.

Did you grow a high-yielding, high-quality soybean variety last year? Nominate it online by Feb.28, 2012, to be included in the 2012 Variety Information Program for Soybeans (VIPS).

Every year the National Soybean Research Lab (NSRL), the University of Illinois and Southern Illinois University Carbondale analyze hundreds of soybean varieties from numerous seed companies. The data from throughout the state is compiled online as an unbiased resource to help farmers choose varieties with the most potential for the next season. The program is funded by the Illinois soybean checkoff.

“The researchers will test the varieties you nominate in 13 plots throughout the state this year, measuring for yield, disease resistance, weather tolerance and protein and oil levels,” says Dan Farney, soybean farmer from Morton, and chair of ISA’s production committee.

“The purpose of VIPS is to identify varieties that will provide the most yield potential with the highest quality to increase Illinois soybean farmers’ profit potential, so it is important to start with a large cross-section of varieties,” adds Farney.

Help make the 2012 testing program even more valuable to your fellow Illinois soybean farmers by nominating up to six varieties. Simply pick two maturity groups relevant to your farming operations and list up to three varieties for each online at www.VIPSoybeans.org. Nominations are due by Tuesday, Feb. 28, 2012.

“VIPS is an awesome tool that helps farmers win the battle when it comes to maximizing soybean yields and profit per acre. Variety selection is typically the most important decision a soybean grower makes, and it’s important for growers to have access to information from a diversity of sources,” says Linda Lee, NSRL project coordinator of VIPS. “VIPS delivers a non-company perspective and is always available online … always at the growers’ fingertips.”

The Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is the statewide organization for Illinois soybean growers. The farmers on its board administer soybean checkoff funds to support research, promotions and educational programs designed to increase demand for Illinois soybeans, and administer legislation and membership programs. For more information visit: www.ilsoy.org.