By Scout Nelson
University of Minnesota Extension and NDSU Extension have announced that registration is now open for the 2026 Soil Management Summit (SMS) and Dakota Innovation Research and Technology (DIRT) Conference. The event will take place on January 14–15, 2026, at the Delta Marriott Hotel in Fargo, North Dakota, and will feature both in-person and virtual participation options.
The Soil Management Summit and DIRT Conference bring together researchers, agricultural advisors, and land managers to focus on the latest in soil health and management strategies. The event is designed to combine local research with practical know-how, offering attendees both academic perspectives and hands-on experiences.
Topics on the agenda include covering crops, tillage practices, nutrient management, soil biology, livestock integration, and the economics of soil health. Sessions will feature presentations, Q&A opportunities with experts, sponsor insights, and informal networking discussions. Attendees typically include ranchers, landowners, ag advisors, conservation staff, and others working directly with soil and crop management.
The conference schedule begins with a preconference dinner on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, offering participants an opportunity to meet speakers in a smaller setting. On Wednesday, January 14, programming runs from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. with lunch included, followed by the “Beer and Bull Social” from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Thursday’s program on January 15 will run from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., including both breakfast and lunch.
The Soil Management Summit and DIRT Conference highlight the value of balancing research with practical experience to improve soil stewardship and sustainability across the region. Participants will gain tools and strategies to improve soil productivity while addressing environmental and economic challenges.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-alotofpeople
Categories: Minnesota, Crops, General