By Scout Nelson
The 2025 Central Dakota Ag Day, hosted by North Dakota State University Extension, will take place on December 19 at the Carrington Research Extension Center in Carrington, North Dakota. The annual event brings farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals together to learn about new research, technology, and practical tools for improving operations.
A major focus this year is cybersecurity. Chris Sherman, principal owner of Tech Support Farm, will deliver the keynote presentation titled “Cyber: U.S. Ag’s Next Big Storm.” His message will help farmers understand how cyberattacks can affect agricultural technology, equipment, and business systems. Sherman will also lead a breakout session on steps producers can take right now to strengthen their cybersecurity.
Event organizers say cybersecurity awareness is becoming essential as farms rely more on digital tools. They want producers to learn how to protect sensitive data, machinery, and financial information from growing online threats.
Along with the keynote, the full-day event includes 15 concurrent seminars covering agronomy, livestock, and agricultural life. Topics include nutrient management, soybean diseases, robotic weeders, fungicide use, wheat weed management, food preservation basics, feed tag information, cattle herd rebuilding, avian influenza concerns, multigenerational farming, and mental health resources. Sessions also highlight orchard research and best practices for manure use on fields and pastures.
Frayne Olson, NDSU Extension crops economist, will end the program with a general session titled “Discipline and Patience: 2026 Crop Market Outlook,” offering insights into future market trends.
Central Dakota Ag Day begins at 9:30 a.m. with coffee and donuts. No registration is required, and lunch will be provided. Certified crop advisers can earn continuing education units for several sessions.
The event is organized by NDSU Extension agents from seven counties and staff from the Carrington Research Extension Center. The goal is to give producers timely, research-based information to help them make informed decisions.
More details are available at ndsu.ag/CentralAg25.
Direct further questions to Gale at 701-652-2581 or jeff.gale@ndsu.edu.
The Carrington Research Extension Center is located 3.5 miles north of Carrington on U.S. Highway 281.
Photo Credit: north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Soybeans, Wheat, Livestock, Beef Cattle, Rural Lifestyle, Farm Safety