Michigan soybean growers can access timely crop- and pest-management information throughout the growing season via the Michigan Soybean Hotline, a toll-free phone service sponsored by Michigan State University (MSU) Extension and the Michigan Soybean Checkoff Program.

The hotline will go into operation April 24 and can be accessed at 888-201-9301. Growers will hear a recorded greeting directing them to select from six subject areas: insects, diseases, weeds, agronomic information, soybean cyst nematodes and the Michigan Automated Weather Network. The updates and recommendations for each topic area will be recorded by MSU Extension specialists.

Messages will be updated as needed to provide Michigan soybean growers with up-to-date information for improving soybean yields and farm profitability. When pests or diseases affect the soybean growing season, frequent updates will provide information on the latest scouting and control recommendations.

The hotline will be updated through fall harvest. Growers requiring additional or more in-depth information can call any county MSU Extension office at 1-888-678-3464.