Check back often as more event details become available!
1. Conference Overview
This year’s conference will be a dynamic experience designed to address each facet of your Ag Spectrum business including agronomy, marketing, research, and customer service. Addressing advancements in agriculture will enable you to put the science behind the Maximum Farming System to work, and provide your customers with what they need to achieve optimum production, profits, and success.
Come prepared to advance your career with Ag Spectrum by utilizing new technologies and marketing strategies while reinforcing your understanding of the Maximum Farming System. Celebrate accomplishments with good friends, and network with others in the Ag Spectrum family.
Please join the conference’s Facebook group to connect with fellow attendees before and during the conference.
Hearing Assistance
New this year at the conference will be a hearing assistance tool called “Listen Everywhere”. This app-based tool allows you to connect to the audio system in the meeting room to hear the presenters through headphones on your device. If you think this tool may be of help to you or your guests, please download the Listen Everywhere app on your smartphone now and bring headphones to the conference. Additional instructions will be available in the meeting room.
Preliminary Schedule
2. Speakers
Dr. Erich Grotewold – Corn’s Responses to Nitrogen Form and Rate
Dr. Grotewold is a Professor and former Chair of the Department of Biochemistry at Michigan State University. He is a globally recognized expert in plant biochemistry specializing in the elucidation of gene regulatory networks. Much of his research focuses on the biosynthesis and metabolism of plant secondary metabolites involved in plant adaptation to environmental stresses. He will be presenting research describing how plant genetics and environmental variables interact to determine health and yields in corn.
Dr. Ryan Haden – Optimizing Soil Conditions for Soybean Emergence and Vegetative Growth
Dr. Haden is an Associate Professor at The Ohio State University’s Agricultural Technical Institute where he teaches practical courses in soil science and agronomy. He currently maintains an active and collaborative research program in the field of soil fertility. While he publishes his fundamental research findings in peer-reviewed journals, he also translates those results into practical guidance for farmers with a variety of technical presentations. He will be presenting research related to the influence of Ag Spectrum’s liquid and dry fertilizers on soil salinity and soybean growth in different soil types.
Dr. Stuart Grandy – Nitrogen and Phosphorus Cycling in Soils, Implications for Fertilizer Management
Dr. Grandy is a Professor of Natural Resources and the Environment at the University of New Hampshire. He is an internationally recognized expert in soil ecology and biogeochemical cycling in soils. Using a combination of chemical, molecular, and microbiological approaches, he studies the relationships between plants, soils, and microbes to discern how they regulate nutrient cycling and organic matter turnover. He will be presenting research describing how soil microbes cycle nitrogen and phosphorus in the root zone and the significance of their roles in supplying those two nutrients to crop plants.
3. RESORT DETAILS
Check-In Time: 4:00 p.m.
Check-Out Time: 11:00 a.m.
Contact Information
Address: 3800 W Starr Pass Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85745
Phone Number: (520) 792-3500
Website: https://bit.ly/3QnmDN9
Amenities
- Complimentary Luggage Assistance (Gratuity covered by Ag Spectrum. Please self-identify as part of the group so they receive their gratuity.)
- Wireless internet access in guestroom
- Mini Refrigerator
- Cable TV
- Hairdryer
- Iron and ironing board
- Bottled water each day in guestroom
- Self-parking
- 15% off all gift and clothing purchases at the Resort, Hashani, and Golf shops
- Unlimited golf driving range
There are incredible experiences on-site and near the hotel. From hiking trails, multi-tiered pools, the day spa, and golf courses, to Saguaro National Park and Old Tucson, enjoy dozens of kid-friendly things to do at the resort and around Tucson.
Lazy River, Waterslide & Pools
Lazily drift along the Starr Canyon River, brave the Monsoon Falls Water Slide, lounge by the Reflection Pools or play in the Dancing Springs.
Hashani Spa & Fitness Center
Indulge in treatments that combine the latest beauty and health technology with the ancient healing techniques and traditions inspired by the indigenous people of the region, using the healing properties of the revered Saguaro cactus, also known as Hashani. Make a reservation.
Starr Pass Golf Club
Sharpen your game by playing a round on all three of the resort’s nine-hole golf courses. Tee off with red-tinged Arizona desert scenery and looming mountains in the background at the Starr Pass Golf Club, designed by legendary Arnold Palmer.
Hiking
Explore four scenic mountain ranges – Tucson, Tortolita, Santa Rita and Santa Catalina. The trail-head for several hiking and biking runs can be found at the resort.
Mitakuye Oyasin (Mee-Tah-Kay Awe-Sin)
Join each morning on the Salud Terrace to participate in a traditional Native American ceremony and unique Sonoran Desert experience.
Tequila Toast
Gather on the Salud Terrace to watch the sunset and experience the resort’s nightly tradition – the Tequila toast. Join for this unique experience where they feature one of our more than 150 artisan tequilas and a complimentary toast: “Arriba, Abajo, al Centro, al Dentro, Salud!” (Up, down, out and in).
Food & Beverages
Savor International cuisine in one of the onsite restaurants featuring authentic Mediterranean dishes and classic Mexican fare. In addition to the information below, more details can be found here, including reservation availability. No food or beverage purchased outside of the hotel is allowed in the meeting/banquet facilities.
Signature Grill – Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Experience Southwestern cuisine boasting flavors honed from rich, local cultures at Signature Grill. The menu features classic Native American and Mexican dishes prepared with locally grown, farm fresh produce and custom spices.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Daily 6:30 a.m.-9:00 p.m.
Catalina Barbeque Co. & Sports Bar – Lunch & Dinner
Expect a dynamic combination of award-winning barbeque and a casual sporting environment at Catalina Barbeque Co. & Sports Bar.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Daily 11:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Salud – Dinner
Dine below the stars near mesmerizing fire pits on Salud’s outdoor terrace. Take in the captivating views of downtown Tucson, while enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine, hand-crafted cocktails and fine tequilas from an extensive list of selections.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Sunday-Thursday 3:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.
- Friday-Saturday 3:00 p.m.-12:00 a.m.
- Nightly tequila toast at 5:30 p.m.
Passaggio – A Sonoran Trattoria – Dinner
Sharing the natural beauty and warmth of the serene landscape while delivering the flavors of a modern trattoria by using the hidden bounty of the Sonoran Desert.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Daily 5:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.
Plunge Poolside Dining – Lunch & Cocktails
Lounge next to the shimmering outdoor pool with refreshing drinks and appetizing cuisine in a rejuvenating environment at Plunge Poolside Dining. Our casual restaurant and bar offers tasty dishes, a great kids’ menu and easy take-out options.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Daily 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.
JW Market – Lunch & Dinner
Satisfy your cravings at JW Market, an on-the-go marketplace restaurant with locally inspired cuisine, specialty snacks and products from Tucson’s finest purveyors as well as regionally inspired artisan sandwiches and salads to go.
- Dress Code: Casual
- Sunday-Thursday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
- Friday-Saturday 11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
4. TRANSPORTATION DETAILS
Airfare and ground transportation are the responsibility of the Associate. Tucson International Airport (TUS), located just a short distance from JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, offers rental car and shuttle options.
If you choose to rent a car, here are some recommendations:
- Self-parking is complimentary at the hotel – Upon arrival, visit the front desk first to get a ticket to enter and exit the parking garage. It is recommended to leave your luggage at the bell desk at this time since the parking garage is a decent distance from the guest rooms.
- There are many options within and near the Tucson International Airport that can be found here.
- It is advised to make rental car arrangements early as the rental companies often run out of cars during this season.
If you choose not to rent a car, the resort does offer a local shuttle for $35. Call them for more information. Utilizing private rental services like Uber and Lyft is also an option.
Tucson International Airport (TUS) Airlines
5. Meals & Attire
A variety of meals will be provided throughout the conference; however, there will be opportunities for guests to enjoy the fresh and flavorful dishes that the resort and area restaurants have to offer. We invite you to enjoy breakfast each morning of your stay, which is included in the package. No food or beverage purchased outside of the hotel is allowed in the meeting/banquet facilities.
Contact us at meetings@agspectrum.com with any special situations or food allergies that you did not already include during registration so we can help make your stay as safe and comfortable as possible.
Layers are recommended throughout the conference as both indoor and outdoor temperatures may vary. The Welcome Banquet on January 12 will be a casual gathering allowing you to come as you are from traveling. All meetings will be business casual, except the Awards Banquet on January 16 which will be formal/business professional.
6. Top Places to Eat & Things to Do
Top Places to Eat
Charro Steak & Del Ray – $$$
188 E Broadway Blvd • Dinner
American, Steakhouse • (520) 485-1922
Hub Restaurant & Ice Creamery – $$
266 E Congress St • Lunch & Dinner
American, Dessert • (520) 207-8201
Prep and Pastry – $$
2660 N Campbell Ave • Breakfast & Lunch
American, Cafe • (520) 326-7737
Tiny’s Saloon & Steakhouse – $
4900 W Ajo Hwy • Lunch & Dinner
American • (520) 578-7700
Penca – $$$
50 E Broadway Blvd • Dinner
Mexican, Southwestern • (520) 203-7681
LaCo Tucson – $$
201 N Court Ave • Lunch & Dinner
Southwestern • (520) 622-0351
El Charro Cafe – $$
311 N Court Ave • Lunch & Dinner
Mexican • (520) 622-1922
Caruso’s – $$
434 N 4th Ave • Dinner
Italian • (520) 624-5765
Reilly Craft Pizza and Drink – $$
101 E Pennington St • Dinner
Italian • (520) 882-5550
Brooklyn Pizza Company – $
534 N 4th Ave • Lunch & Dinner
Italian, Pizza • (520) 622-6868
Obon Sushi Bar Ramen – $$
350 E Congress St • Dinner
Japanese • (520) 485-3590
El Berraco – $$
2960 N 1st Ave • Dinner
Seafood, Southwestern • (520) 620-9828
Top Things to Do
Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum2021 N Kinney Dr
(520) 883-2702
Children’s Museum Tucson200 S 6th Ave
(520) 792-9985
Pima Air & Space Museum6000 E Valencia Rd
(520) 574-0462
Titan Missile Museum1580 W Duval Mine Rd, Green Valley
(520) 625-7736
Reid Park Zoo3400 E Zoo Ct
(520) 791-3204
San Xavier del Bac Mission1950 W San Xavier Rd
(520) 294-2624
Mount Lemmon12856 N Sabino Canyon Park, Mt Lemmon
(520) 576-1468
Saguaro National ParkEast: 3693 S Old Spanish Trail – (520) 733-5153
West: 2700 N Kinney Rd – (520) 733-5158
Sabino Canyon5700 N Sabino Canyon Rd
(520) 749-7711
Catalina State Park(520) 628-5798
Tombstone Historic District395 E Allen St, Tombstone
(520) 457-3929
7. Weather Forecast
Weather Forecast
Daily high temperatures range between 55°F and 77°F with 68°F being average in January. Lows can fall to the 30s.
8. Pricing & Eligibility
9. Registration, Changes & Cancellations
Registration costs must be paid in full with registration by check or ACH. Registration must be completed on Dealer Tools.
If your registration is completed after October 31, 2022:
- Hotel availability and pricing are not guaranteed
- Dealers may not be eligible for awards
We will attempt to accommodate reasonable special requests, if possible. Be specific in the notes regarding your registration and provide the best method to reach you with any questions regarding your registration. We will contact you with questions and any available options if we are unable to accommodate your request.
Once your registration is complete, any changes must be communicated in writing. This can be done via email to meetings@agspectrum.com or by mail at PO Box 215, DeWitt, IA 52742. All verbal changes and cancellations must be followed by a written directive and action will not be taken until the written directive is received. This would include, but is not limited to, additions or deletions of persons in your party, MFCC planned attendance change, not able to secure a commitment for MFCC from a customer or prospect, or a complete cancellation for extenuating circumstances.
You will be responsible for costs incurred and change fees up to the date we receive your change or cancellation. This is due to contractual commitments with the hotel. Depending on the date on which the change or cancellation occurs, you may be eligible for a full refund or no refund of the registration fees.
If you qualify for the first-year dealer incentive and change or cancel, you will be responsible for the costs described previously.
10. Post-Conference Survey
Post-Conference Survey
Thank you for attending the 2023 National Dealer Seminar with Ag Spectrum Company. We hope you enjoyed the seminar, speakers, and all the resort and Tucson area had to offer.
It is our goal to improve this seminar each year, so we welcome your feedback by means of the following survey. If you attended both National Dealer Seminar and Maximum Farming Club Conference, try to limit your responses to the NDS part of the meeting: January 12 – 17, 2023. You will also receive a survey following the MFCC portion of the meeting. The survey should take about 5-10 minutes to complete.
Thank you for your time, and we hope you have a wonderful year in 2023!
Submit Survey Here
11. Emergency Contact
In case of emergency please contact your immediate supervisor, or email our meeting coordinator, Robin Petersen (meetings@agspectrum.com).
12. Maximum Farming Club Conference Information for Associates
Invitations
Request personalized invitations before October 1, 2022
Final acceptance deadline is October 31, 2022
Associates who wish to invite current and prospective customers must request an invitation through Dealer Tools. When your sales management team approves the request, Ag Spectrum will mail a customized invitation for you to deliver personally to the invitee.
Once a farmer has confirmed their attendance, the Associate must either submit their signed and completed acceptance card or invite the customer to accept the invitation online by providing them with a unique code. The appropriate payment must be sent to the Ag Spectrum office at the same time as the acceptance. The personalized invitation is not transferable.
The package for the Maximum Farming Club Conference includes six days and five nights of accommodations, breakfast every day, lunch on Wednesday and Thursday and two banquets.
Space is limited and reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis. Please secure acceptances before the final deadline, October 31, 2022. After this date, confirmed acceptances will be honored if space is available. Pricing is not guaranteed after October 31.
Eligibility
Leading Ag Spectrum farmers, Maximum Farming Certified Customers, and prospective customers are eligible to attend.
It is highly recommended for the Associate to host the invited grower at the conference. If an Associate cannot attend, prior arrangements must be made to leave clients in the hands of their management team.
An Ag Spectrum Associate must either be sponsoring a guest who is attending or be in his or her first year as a dealer to be eligible to attend.
Changes & Cancellations
Once a registration is complete, any changes must be communicated in writing. This can be done via email to meetings@agspectrum.com or to our mailing address at PO Box 215, De Witt, IA 52742.
All verbal changes and cancellations must be followed by a written directive. Action will not be taken until the written directive is received. This would include, but is not limited to:
- Additions or deletions of persons in your party
- MFCC planned attendance change
- Non-secured commitment for MFCC from a customer or prospect
- Complete cancellation for extenuating circumstances
You will be responsible for costs incurred and change fees up to the date of written receipt of your change or cancellation. This is due to contractual commitments with the hotel. Depending on the date on which the change or cancellation occurs, you may be eligible for a full refund or no refund.
Pricing & Qualifications
- Ag Spectrum Associate
- Associate: $2,400
- First-Year Associate: $2,400
- Certified Customer – PLEASE NOTE: Customers must be certified on Dealer Tools by December 31, 2022 to be eligible for subsidized registrations. No extensions or exceptions. The hosting Associate starts the certification approval process. Those who are certified have total program usage on 95% of applicable acres. Dealer and Management Team must verify eligibility.
- Non-Certified Customer – A non-certified customer is responsible for payment unless other arrangements have been made. Sales teams may choose to subsidize the fees for their guests, however, the company does not participate in these subsidies. If a non-certified customer becomes certified within the next year, the company and management will contribute their share of the cost of attendance as if they were certified in 2022.
If the customer becomes Certified in 2023, the refunds and costs will be reissued to subsidize their registration cost as shown in the Certified Customer section above. This means the dealer will be refunded their entire portion shown to the left, the Area Manager will contribute $600, and Ag Spectrum Company will contribute $1,200.
- No Risk Prospect – Never Purchased (only available to Certified Associates) If a prospect that has never purchased Ag Spectrum product accepts an invitation, certified dealers and managers are eligible to have the prospect attend at no cost. Once the prospect becomes a customer, the full package cost ($2,400) is due to the company.
- Maximum Farming Live! Incentive
- If a Maximum Farming Certified Specialist fulfills all of the documentation and service requirements of “Maximum Farming Live!” for 2022, the Dealer contribution of $600 will be refunded for that customer (whether the customer is certified, or not).
- All steps must be completed for the customer who attends MFCC for the refund to apply.
- Full dealer cost must be paid up front and will be refunded when all Live! requirements are met and verified by sales management.
- Additional Guests staying in the same room:
- Age 0-3: no additional charge
- Age 4-12: $260
- Age 13+: $495
- Transportation
- Customers and prospects must provide their own transportation to and from JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa.
- Guests should plan to arrive at the resort by 4:00 p.m. on January 17th and depart January 22nd at their convenience.