UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Those interested in current crop management issues may want to attend the annual Penn State Extension “Crops Conferences,” available in two formats this year: a daylong, in-person event and a two-afternoon virtual event. Attendees for each conference can earn pesticide applicator, nutrient management and certified crop adviser credits.
The in-person seminar will take place from 9 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 7, at the Lebanon County Exposition Center and Fairgrounds, 2120 Cornwall Road, Lebanon.
The virtual conference will occur from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 1, and Friday, March 3.
These events are designed for crop producers, pesticide license holders, and dairy, beef, poultry, and no-till farmers.
Sessions will cover:
— How to spray pesticides safely and protect the applicator.
— How to select and use herbicides properly.
— Soil and water tactics to improve soil and productivity while maintaining environmental impact.
— Forage and hay tactics to better manage yield and quality for dairy and beef farms.
— Grain management techniques to improve yield and explore alternative markets in the region.
— Best practices to maintain fertility and remain in compliance with local and state nutrient management laws.
The conference in Lebanon will offer six core and six category pesticide recertification credits as well as dicamba, paraquat and fumigation training. At the virtual event, pesticide applicators can earn two category and two core pesticide education credits. To meet compliance for licensure, applicators must attend two core and two category sessions, organizers pointed out.
The conferences also will offer opportunities to earn certified crop advisor and nutrient management credits. Organizers noted that credits are pending final approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture or the Pennsylvania Certified Crop Adviser Program.
A $10 registration fee accompanies each event. Organizers said space is limited, so preregistration is recommended. Attendees must register for the Lebanon conference by 11:59 p.m. Jan. 31. The registration deadline for the live webinars is 11:59 p.m. Feb. 28.
More information about the in-person and virtual conference is available on the Penn State Extension website, including online registration, a detailed agenda, and information for those interested in sponsoring these events or other crop conferences.
–Penn State Extension