A one-of-a-kind agricultural event is making its way to Iowa this summer, and it’s drawing farmers from across the country who want to see the latest in weed control technology up close and in action.
The 8th annual Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day will take place Wednesday, August 20, at Iowa State University’s Horticulture Research Station in Ames. The event has grown into the largest field day in the U.S. focused exclusively on mechanical weed control, and for good reason—it’s where farmers can “kick the tires” on the newest tools, see them run in real soil, and learn from experts and each other.
The idea began with Sam Oschwald Tilton, an independent agronomist who helped launch the field day nearly a decade ago while pursuing his master’s degree in horticulture at Michigan State University.
“We thought it would be a one-time thing,” Oschwald Tilton told WRMJ’s Terry James during a recent interview on Focus. “But farmers came from all over the Midwest, and the response was overwhelming. It grew from there—Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio—and now Iowa.”
What Makes This Field Day Different?
While many agricultural trade shows and winter expos showcase new equipment under bright lights and on red carpets, the Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day stands out by putting those tools to the test—literally.
“This is all about real-time, high-quality field demonstrations,” Oschwald Tilton said. “Farmers get to see how different cultivators, tine weeders, and camera-guided systems perform in the soil. It’s about learning what works, what doesn’t, and why.”
The event brings together a wide range of equipment manufacturers—from major players in Europe to emerging companies in the U.S.—to demonstrate dozens of weed control tools. Farmers can observe their performance, compare features, and talk with both company reps and other producers who’ve used them.
“There’s no substitute for seeing a tool at work in your type of soil or in similar conditions,” he added. “Some of these tools cost $50,000 to $80,000. This is your chance to research before you buy.”
The Future of Weed Control Is Mechanical—and Smart
As the agricultural landscape evolves and herbicide resistance continues to rise, mechanical weed control is gaining new ground—even among conventional growers.
“Even companies like Syngenta support what we’re doing,” Oschwald Tilton said. “They know herbicides alone can’t solve everything.”
This year’s event will also highlight the role of technology and autonomy in modern weed control. From camera-guided cultivators that use artificial intelligence to improve accuracy, to autonomous machines that can operate around the clock, farmers will see how innovation is changing the game.
“Whether you’re considering upgrading next season or just want to be ready for what’s coming in five years, this is where you can learn about the cutting edge,” Oschwald Tilton said.
A Full Day of Learning, Networking, and Discovery
The day will begin with a large trade show featuring manufacturers, seed companies, fertilizer dealers, university researchers, and service providers involved in sustainable weed control. Educational sessions will follow, including:
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Matt Saddleburg from Bayshore Sales, speaking on camera-guidance system setup and performance.
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Dale Stumpf from Buffalo, with more than 30 years of experience in cultivation, discussing high-residue strategies—an increasingly important topic for no-till and soil-health focused growers.
The afternoon is dedicated to field demonstrations, where attendees will see more than a dozen machines in action—everything from tine weeders and finger weeders to spider weeders and autonomous units capable of running day and night.
“There’s no other event like this,” Oschwald Tilton said. “Last year we had farmers come all the way from Quebec. Whether you’re an organic vegetable grower or a row crop farmer looking to diversify your weed control, there’s something for everyone.”
Space Is Limited—Register Early
Attendance is capped at 200 participants, and the event typically sells out. Registration is required in advance.
To reserve a spot, visit www.thelandconnection.org and search for “Midwest Mechanical Weed Control Field Day.” WRMJ will also share the registration link on its website and Facebook page.