Kansas State University will host the inaugural Kansas Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) awards banquet on January 18 at 5 p.m. at Boot Hill Casino and Resort in Dodge City. The event celebrates agricultural innovation and sustainable irrigation management, welcoming farmers, industry leaders, educators, and community members.

The banquet will announce the 2024 TAPS competition winners in four categories: Most Profitable, Most Profitable at or Below Q-Stable, Highest Input Use Efficiency, and Greatest Grain Yield. Cash prizes will be awarded for the 2024 Sprinkler Irrigated Corn Farm Management Competition.

Launched in October 2023, TAPS is a hands-on competition that uses data-driven insights for real-world farm management decisions. The program attracted 34 teams and 98 participants from eight states.

K-State will also announce plans to expand TAPS in 2025, including a new competition site in Garden City. The program addresses water management challenges and promotes sustainability.