Thomas Dykstra started a private research lab after earning 3 entomology degrees. This action placed him on a path as an independent research consultant that led to breaking the insect olfactory code and determining which insects are attracted to certain plants and why. The Gainesville, Fla.-based entomologist links relative plant health to specific insect damage, rather than grouping all insects together as mere competitors for our food. From aphids to grasshoppers, insects are important indicators of plant health and may be used to that end if you know how to interpret their presence. Relating all of this to Leaf Brix allows farmers to successfully navigate between various crops and soil amendments used in a no-till operation.

You’ll Learn: What the presence of certain insects means for crop health & how Brix measurements provide early detection of crop deficiencies.

The 33rd Annual National No-Tillage Conference returns to Louisville on Jan. 7-10, 2025. Whether you're new to no-till or refining your system, this event delivers fast-paced learning from top no-till farmers, agronomists and experts. With over 12 General Sessions, 23 expert-led Classrooms and 34 Roundtables to choose from, plus opportunities to earn pesticide recertification and CCA credits, the 2025 No-Till Conference is a must-attend event for anyone looking to enhance their no-till farming practices.

View the full speaker agenda and topics here.

For more information about the 2025 National No-Tillage Conference, to register for the event and to book your hotel room visit no-tillfarmer.com/nntc. Use code SPEAKER50 for $50 off your registration.

The Conference extends its thanks to our 2025 sponsors: Precision Planting, Ag Leader, Montag, Martin-Till, Yetter, Bio Till Cover Crops, ForGround by Bayer, Copperhead Ag, The Andersons Plant Nutrient Group, HORSCH, Titan International, and Midwest Bio-Tech.

Dr. Thomas M. Dykstra holds degrees from Cornell University and the University of Florida. He owns a private research laboratory that investigates entomological, agricultural, and bioelectromagnetic issues and has worked with farmers, both small and large agricultural companies, attorneys, insurance agencies, tech firms, and international governments.

Dykstra will also be presenting the session "Exploring Electrical Conductivity in the Soil."