Kristen P. MacMillan

Research Agronomist
Soybean and Pulse Crop Agronomy and Cropping Systems
Department of Plant Science

Room 113 Plant Science
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 CANADA
kristen.macmillan@umanitoba.ca
(204)-474-9884 
Twitter: @kpmacmillan

Research Interests

The Soybean and Pulse Agronomy Lab focuses on soybean and dry bean agronomy and optimization of soybean and pulse cropping systems. The goal of my research program is to study and develop best management practices and cropping systems that optimize agronomy, profitability and sustainability for farmers in Manitoba and western Canada. I also bring leadership in the area of applied science, extension and teaching and integration of those processes. 

• Soybean and dry bean agronomy
• Cropping systems
• Pulses and special crops
• Integrated crop and soil management
• Extension and training

What is agronomy?

Agronomy is the study of soils and plants, the practice of field crop production, and the management of land and water resources. 

- U of Manitoba 

Mission

Study and develop best management practices for soybean and pulse cropping systems through agronomic research, extension and training. 

Funding acknowledgements

Education

M.Sc. Plant Science (Cropping Systems), Department of Plant Science, 2013, University of Manitoba

B.Sc. Agriculture (Major: Agronomy, Minor: Soil Science), 2011, University of Manitoba

Agriculture diploma (General), 2008, School of Agriculture, University of Manitoba

Professional designations

Professional Agrologist, Manitoba Institute of Agrologists 

Certified Crop Advisor 

Background

Kristen joined the Department of Plant Science in 2016 through a grassroots initiative led by the Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers in partnership with the University of Manitoba to increase capacity to conduct applied agronomy research focused on soybeans, dry beans and field peas in Manitoba. The agronomist-in-residence initiative also aims to enhance the student experience and prioritize extension.
Prior to joining the U of M, Kristen was the first Production Specialist and Director of Research & Production with Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers from 2013-2016 during the major soybean acreage expansion. Kristen developed the first Research & Production Strategy for the organization which included the Bean Report, field scouting network, targeted research investments, expansion and branding of the On-Farm Network, disease survey and a suite of production resources. She met many farmers, agronomists and industry advisors along the way. 

Current projects 

• Soybean seeding depth assessment (2017-continuing)
• Exploring soybean and pulse relay and intercropping (2017-continuing)
• Evaluation of fungicide product and timing in soybean
• Evaluating soybean seeding windows in Manitoba (2017-continuing)
• Optimizing nitrogen fertility rates for dry beans in Manitoba (2017-continuing)
• Exploring soybean iron deficiency chlorosis (2017-continuing)
• Effect of preceding crop and residue management on dry bean (2017-continuing)
• Evaluating the effect of simulated hail damage on soybean maturity, yield and quality in western Canada (2015-2019)
• Effect of delayed seeding date, cultivar and environment on soybean yield components and seed quality (2015-2018) 

Teaching

DAGR 0630 Soybean Field Agronomy - New field-based experiential learning course developed and delivered in 2018 

PLNT 0410 and PLNT 0760 - Guest lectures and case studies 

Presentations and Publications

MacMillan K.P and R. H. Gulden. 2020. Effect of seeding date, environment and cultivar on soybean seed yield, yield components, and seed quality in the Northern Great Plains. Agronomy Journal; 1-13. (Download)

2018 Annual Report