Jeff Davis – Soybean Research Profile
Jeff Davis, Professor, Austin C. Thompson Distinguished Professor, Department of Entomology, Louisiana State University AgCenter
Why did you decide to pursue a career that includes soybean research?
I grew up on a farm and I believe in the land grant system. My job is to help farmers grow more food sustainably both for the environment and for their operations. I want to help farmers do what they do even better. Soybeans are an important crop, and one where I can make a difference.
What research topic have you completed in the past or are working on now that could have or has had the most significant impact on soybean production?
Efforts to find more tools for integrated management of stink bugs is the most important work I am doing. Stink bugs are a challenge for farmers throughout the Mid-South and the Southeast, and they are becoming a bigger issue in the Midwest.
How has the Soy Checkoff enhanced your ability to find answers to production problems for farmers?
Without Soy Checkoff support, I would not be able to do the research I do. Grants from the USDA are not as focused. The Soy Checkoff allows me to do the work that makes the most difference for farmers.
Within your area of expertise, what are the top two or three general recommendations you would offer farmers to improve their management practices?
- Scout early. Scout often. Farmers need to see what is going on in their fields and be actively looking for insects to know if they have a problem.
- Use integrated pest management strategies to manage insects. Variety selection, planting timing, row spacing and other practices have a major impact on insect management.
- Remember that universities provide unbiased information to help farmers address challenges.
Within your area of expertise, what do you consider to be critical soybean research needs that can impact the profitability of farmers in the future?
For the overall industry, I think we need research on new uses for soybeans, to ensure demand. I also think ongoing breeding research will be critical for future soybean production. For insect management, I believe we need researcher on defoliators, including lepidoptera, aphids and stink bugs. As soybeans get planted earlier and weather patterns shift, insects are moving. The problem insects currently in the Mid-South and Southeast could become bigger issues in the Midwest in the future, so this type of research can equip farmers to manage them.
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