By Andi Anderson
The Conservation Tillage and Technology Conference (CTTC) will take place on March 10–11, 2026, at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio.
The event will bring together farmers, agronomists, certified crop advisors, and industry professionals for two days of learning and networking. The goal of the conference is to help farmers discover new ideas, adopt better farming practices, and improve profitability.
This year’s keynote speaker is Monte Bottens, a fifth‑generation farmer, host of the AgEmerge Podcast, and an investor in regenerative agriculture technology. Bottens Family Farm, located near Cambridge, Illinois, practices long‑term no‑till, cover crops, and integrated livestock across 2,800 acres.
The family raises non‑GMO and food‑grade corn, soybeans, small grains, and specialty crops. Bottens and his wife operate Grateful Graze, a direct‑to‑consumer business providing pasture‑raised meats. His keynote is sponsored by Calmer Corn Heads, with Brandt also serving as a major sponsor.
The conference will feature Agronomic Crop Management sessions on both days. Speakers include Dan Quinn of Purdue University, who will discuss short‑stature corn hybrids, and Ohio State University experts Laura Lindsey and Osler Ortez, who will introduce Battle for the Belt 2.0. Nicole Fiorellino from the University of Maryland will present the science behind claims made by new agricultural products, and Simer Virk of Auburn University will address soil sampling for precision nutrient management.
Farmers interested in nutrient management can attend Tuesday’s session featuring Andrew Klopfenstein from Ohio State University, who will explain irrigation impacts on corn and soybean yields. Ohio State’s Peggy Hall will discuss carbon capture and its meaning for farmers, while Sam Mullins from the Ohio Department of Agriculture will give regulatory updates.
Soil Health, Cover Crops and No‑Till sessions will feature speakers such as Carrie Volmer‑Sanders from Field to Market, and Brian Brandt from American Farmland Trust. Linda Barrett will present digital 3D soil carbon mapping, and a panel discussion will explore equipment needed for soil health practices.
Wednesday includes Water Quality and Conservation sessions with experts like Manbir Rakkar and Vinayak Shedekar from Ohio State University.
Precision Agriculture topics include spray drone businesses and the use of artificial intelligence in managing nutrients and pesticides. Farm Management sessions will cover grain markets, economic outlooks, and farm organization strategies.
With more than 60 speakers, CTTC offers farmers numerous opportunities to learn from experts and connect with peers. The event begins Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. with award presentations, followed by four concurrent sessions. Wednesday’s sessions conclude around 4:30 p.m.
Registration is $100 before February 28 and $150 afterward or at the door. Click here to register. Registration includes access to recorded presentations beginning April 15, available through July 1, 2026. Limited discounted lodging is available at The Inn at Ohio Northern University.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fertnig
Categories: Ohio, Rural Lifestyle