Producers across the Rolling Plains continue to face a common challenge: how to maintain profitability while adapting to changing weather conditions, rising input costs, evolving pest pressures, and shifting market opportunities. One of the best ways to evaluate new practices and technologies is to see research results firsthand and hear directly from the scientists and specialists conducting the work.
The 2026 Chillicothe Field Day, hosted by Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension, will provide producers with an opportunity to learn about the latest research findings and management strategies relevant to agriculture in the Rolling Plains. The event is scheduled for Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the Chillicothe Research Station.
The field day will feature research-based presentations covering cotton, peanuts, alternative crops, agricultural economics, and forage production. Participants will learn about the agronomic, economic, and management challenges impacting agricultural operations throughout the region and explore solutions developed through ongoing research.
Cotton Research Focuses on Profitability and Resource Management
Cotton remains a cornerstone crop for many Rolling Plains producers, and several presentations will focus on improving production efficiency while managing risk.
Topics will include conservation systems and cover crops, weed, pest, and disease management, soil fertility and nutrient dynamics, soil health, planting configurations, seeding rates, and variety performance. Attendees will also learn about irrigation management strategies designed to help producers make effective use of limited water resources.
These sessions are designed to provide practical information that producers can use to evaluate production practices, manage inputs, and improve long-term sustainability.
Alternative Crops and Peanuts Offer Diversification Opportunities
As producers continue evaluating ways to diversify crop rotations and manage risk, the field day will include updates on peanut breeding efforts and research examining the potential of cowpeas and guar as rotational crops for dryland production systems.
Alternative crops can provide opportunities to spread risk, improve soil health, and enhance operational flexibility. Research presentations will focus on how these crops may fit within existing production systems in the Rolling Plains.
Participants will also hear about efforts to develop intelligent cropping systems tailored to the unique production challenges of the Texas Rolling Plains.
Economic Considerations Remain Critical
Production decisions often have significant financial implications, making economics an important part of the discussion.
Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about rainfall insurance and how risk management tools can help producers navigate weather uncertainty and volatile market conditions. Understanding available risk management strategies is increasingly important as producers work to protect profitability and manage production risks.
By combining agronomic research with economic decision-making tools, producers can better evaluate the potential costs and benefits of management changes before implementing them on their operations.
Forage, Small Grains, and Livestock Technology Updates
Livestock producers and forage managers will benefit from updates on perennial cool-season forage options and wheat variety selection. These sessions will provide insight into forage production opportunities and variety considerations that can help improve productivity and support livestock operations across the region.
Additional presentations will address sensor technologies and Internet of Things applications in beef cattle production, highlighting emerging tools that may improve management efficiency and support data-driven decision-making.
An Opportunity to See Research in Action
Field days provide a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between research and application. Rather than reading about results after the fact, producers can interact directly with researchers, ask questions specific to their operations, and see ongoing work that may influence future management decisions.
The 2026 Chillicothe Field Day will run from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. Donuts and refreshments will be available during registration, lunch will be provided, and three CEUs will be offered for participants.
Whether your interests are cotton production, alternative crops, forage management, agricultural economics, or emerging technologies, the Chillicothe Field Day offers an opportunity to learn about the latest research and management strategies designed to improve productivity, profitability, and resilience in Texas agriculture.
Help Us Plan: Submit Your RSVP
To assist with meal planning, educational materials, and event logistics, producers are encouraged to submit an RSVP before attending the field day. While there is no cost to attend, advance responses help organizers ensure adequate accommodations and provide the best possible experience for participants.
Those planning to attend can RSVP online at tx.ag/26RollingPlainsFieldDay.
Whether you are interested in cotton production, alternative cropping systems, forage management, agricultural economics, or emerging technologies, submitting an RSVP is the best way to stay informed and help us prepare for a successful event.