By Blake Jackson
Successful soybean production begins with a clear understanding of the land itself. Soil composition, drainage capacity, flood exposure, proximity to streams or wetlands, and regional weather trends all shape yield potential, input expenses, and long-term management strategies.
The difficulty for many producers is that this information is scattered across multiple government platforms, each requiring separate searches and familiarity with different systems.
The Agricultural Site Assessment Tool, known as AgSite, is created to simplify that process. Developed by the University of Missouri, this free online resource compiles critical land data into a single, user-friendly report.
Farmers simply outline a field on an aerial map, select “View Report,” and receive a customized summary for that parcel. The tool works for fields in Missouri and throughout the United States, and no specialized software or technical background is needed.
AgSite pulls together soil classifications, acreage by soil type, and Crop Productivity Index ratings to help explain yield differences within a field. It also maps streams, wetlands, watersheds, and principal aquifers, offering insight into drainage concerns, irrigation potential, and conservation considerations.
Floodplain designations, including 100-year and 500-year zones, are identified to support risk management and financial planning. Long-term climate averages for rainfall, temperature, and wind are included as well, along with major storm event data useful for infrastructure decisions.
By consolidating this information into one accessible platform, AgSite helps soybean farmers make more informed choices about renting, purchasing, improving, or managing land. It enhances on-the-ground experience with reliable data, saving time while supporting smarter, lower-risk farm decisions.
Photo Credit: istock-oticki
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans, Education