Chris Gaesser tests new practices to build a resilient operation

July 1, 2026 | Kriss Nelson

Chris Gaesser doesn’t shy away from trying something new. In fact, the Lenox farmer has built his operation around it. That mindset recently earned him recognition as the Iowa Soybean Association’s Innovator in Production Research award winner.

Gaesser’s approach to farming is rooted in observation and adaptation. Each season brings new variables, from weather to input costs, and he views each as an opportunity to learn. That perspective has helped shape a farm built not just on production, but on continuous improvement.

Curiosity drives change

Known for his curiosity and willingness to test new ideas, Gaesser has been deeply involved with the ISA’s Research Center for Farming Innovation since he began farming. Whether it’s evaluating long-term cover crops or participating in the Iowa Nitrogen Initiative, he’s often among the first to step forward when new on-farm trials are available.

Through RCFI, Gaesser has hosted multiple side-by-side trials, comparing practices under real-world conditions. These trials help evaluate what works on his soils and within his management system. From nutrient management to conservation practices, the data he collects helps guide his decision making. For Gaesser, innovation isn’t just about trying the latest practice. It’s about finding ways that help improve farm management.

“Honestly, a part of it is I just enjoy testing new things,” Gaesser says. “I like the challenge of figuring things out, but also determining if it can add value to the business, help us be more profitable, more time efficient or just reduce stress. If you want to improve, you can’t be afraid to try new things.”

That willingness to experiment comes with a measured approach. Gaesser emphasizes the importance of patience when evaluating results.

“You need to try something for more than a year to make a change,” he says. “It’s hard to know what really works in just one season with all the real-world variability we have.”

Testing with purpose

Trying new practices doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks. Gaesser approaches innovation with intention, often testing practices on a smaller scale before expanding across more acres. That strategy allows him to manage risk while still moving the operation forward.

Some of those trials have led to meaningful changes on his farm. One example is how he manages nitrogen.

“One of the biggest changes was splitting my nitrogen application, so I don’t do it all preplant,” he says. “By applying in-season, I can adjust my nitrogen based on weather and seasonal expectations and reduce the chances of leaching nutrients.”

Beyond profitability, Gaesser also keeps a close eye on soil health, viewing it as a long-term investment in the farm’s future.

“Improving soil health is maintaining an asset,” he says. “Resilience is a big factor, but it can be hard to quantify. Some of the improvements, like getting back into the field faster, holding more water or greater soil biology, are hard to put an exact value on. But maintaining or improving soil health is important for economic stability.”

Sharing results

Gaesser’s approach doesn’t stop at his own fields. He and his family have been active in sharing what they’ve learned, participating in ISA’s Innovation to Profit events, contributing to ISA’s Pods of Potential podcast and The State of Soy. He’s hosted a Shop Talk to share his experience with small grains and cover crops with other farmers. By sharing both successes and failures, he helps other farmers make more informed decisions.

For those hesitant to try something new, his advice is simple.

“Start small,” Gaesser says. “It doesn’t need to be the whole field or a big area. Get used to keeping track of the trials and doing your best to get good data.”

That mindset sets Gaesser apart as the recipient of the ISA Innovator in Production Research award. His willingness to test, evaluate and share results reflects a broader commitment to improving not just his own farm, but the industry at large.

About the Innovator in Production Research award

Presented by John Deere, this award recognizes an individual or organization leading the way in the use of precision agriculture technology who discovers, validates and manages practices to improve soybean profitability.

Written by Kriss Nelson.

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