UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State Extension is offering a new online course, Agronomy Scout School: Crop Scouting Fundamentals, for entry level crop scouts, industry agronomists and agricultural service providers.
Whether you are new to the industry, looking for a refresher, or in need of training material for new hires, this self-paced course provides readings and videos that explain the fundamentals necessary to scout corn, soybean, forage and small grain crops.
“As more students are coming from nonfarm backgrounds, many people have never taken a class that teaches basic scouting principles,” explains Dwight Lingenfelter, weed science extension associate in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences. “This workshop covers all of the fundamentals that a crop scout needs to get started and provides them with the necessary resources to learn more about each topic once they leave.”
Participants will see what crop nutrient deficiencies look like and learn diagnostic techniques such as scouting, plant sampling and soil testing. This course also provides the framework for implementing integrated pest management strategies. Those that complete the course will receive a certificate of completion.
To learn more and register, visit https://extension.psu.edu/
–Penn State Extension