September 2-3, 2026 | Jackson, Tennessee
The University of Tennessee is proud to host the 2026 Southern Soybean Breeders Tour. For the first time since 2012, we invite the breeding community to the Volunteer State for an in-depth look at the research, innovation, and production strategies shaping the future of soybeans in the Mid-South.
This year’s tour builds on over a decade-long tradition of excellence, offering a comprehensive look at:
- Advanced Breeding & Genetics: Insights into high-yielding lines and genetic gains
- Disease & Pest Resistance: Field-side discussions on managing nematodes and late-season pathogens
- Agronomic Innovation: Real-world applications in weed management and soil health
- Interactive Field Tours: Direct access to UT’s latest trials and production landscapes
This annual event, held for more than a decade, draws breeders, agronomists, students, and industry stakeholders together for an engaging look at the host state’s soybean research and production landscape.
The 2025 tour, hosted by the University of Georgia under Dr. Zenglu Li, set a strong benchmark for future events. Tennessee aims to build on that success with a program covering soybean breeding, genetics, agronomy, plant pathology, and other aspects of crop production in Tennessee and the Mid-South.
Registration is OPEN!
Photos
Main Location
Program
3:00 PM – 5:30 PM
Breeders Tour Registration Opens
7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
Breeders Tour Registration
8:00 AM
Welcome – Chris Wyman
8:20 AM
Bus to AgResearch and Education Center at Milan
9:00 AM
Group A: West TN Agricultural Museum Tour
Group B: Milan Station Overview
9:45 AM
Group A: Milan Station Overview
Group B: West TN Agricultural Museum Tour
10:30 AM
Coffee Break
11:00 AM
RECM Field Tour
Using data to do more – disease monitoring and management with new technologies
Dr. Heather Kelly, Dr. Elias Zuchelli, Shiksha Sherma, and Lucas Marques
Soybean Insect Management in Tennessee
Dr. Sebe Brown
UT Soybean Breeding and Genetics
Dr. Chris Wyman
12:00 PM
Lunch Provided
1:00 PM
Bus to Tosh Farms
1:45 PM
Tour of Tosh Farms
Henry, TN
3:45 PM
Bus to West Tennessee Research & Education Center
5:00 PM
Dinner Provided
6:30 PM
Graduate Student Social
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Breeders Tour Registration
8:30 AM
WTREC Field Tours
UAS Imagery and Plant-Soil Sensors for Monitoring Soybean Water Dynamics Under Variable Weather Conditions
Charles ‘Munga’ Muiruri and Dr. Avat Shekoofa
Boosting Soybean Cyst Nematode (SCN) Resistance Through Soil Health
Dr. Alemayehu Habteweld USDA
Impact of planting date on disease incidence, severity, and soybean yield
Dr. Jake McNeal & Shiksha Sharma
Soybean Scout School
Dr. Sebe Brown Students
Herbicide-Resistant Weed Management
Dr. Larry Steckel & Students
10:30 AM
Coffee Break
11:00 AM
WTREC Field Tour
USDA Southern Uniform Test Tour
Tennessee State Variety Trial Tour
12:30 PM
Lunch Provided
2:00 PM
Adjourn
Hotel Information
We have a block rate available at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel Jackson for $139/night. Additionally, we have a block rate available at the Hyatt Place Jackson for $135/night.
Additionally, here are a few nearby hotels:
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jackson 1770 US-45 BYP, Jackson, TN 38305
- Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Jackson 1335 Vann Dr, Jackson, TN 38305
Thank You
We would like to thank the United Soybean Board for their partnership with this event.