Researchers from seven universities are working together to identify management options to improve soybean quality, especially soy protein levels. Ignacio Ciampitti, a professor in farming systems with K-State Research and Extension is leading the project, funded by the United Soybean Board, with the goal of exploring ways to improve the quality of soybean seeds so that the crop continues to maintain high levels of protein as crop yields increase.

“As agronomists, we are always trying to improve yields, but at the same time we want to preserve the quality of that seed because that is what the end user is buying,” Ciampitti said.