The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program is hosting its ninth annual Iowa Youth Crop Scouting Competition on July 29, 2019, at the Iowa State University Field Extension Education Laboratory (FEEL), Boone, Iowa. To register, submit a completed registration form (2019_crop_scouting_competition_registration.docx), or complete the online form, by July 1, 2019. For more details, event registration, and preparation resources visit www.ipm.iastate.edu/cropscouting.
Middle school and high school students (those completing grades 7-12) from Iowa are invited to compete and showcase their crop scouting abilities in corn and soybean fields. The competition will be a one-day event, focused on outdoor learning. Youth will be able to get out into the fields to scout for problems and learn about possible solutions and strategies. During the competition, youth will have the opportunity to interact with Iowa State University faculty, staff and agronomists, as well as professionals in crop-related careers. Prizes will be awarded to the top four teams, while the top two teams have the opportunity to advance to the regional competition on August 26, also held at FEEL. All participants will learn, have fun and take home a free t-shirt.
Crop scouting and IPM are important tools for farmers to increase economic returns while reducing unintended environmental impacts. Equipping future farmers and agronomists with crop scouting skills and basic IPM information will help the next generation of farm decision makers with crop production and land stewardship.
Previous event sponsors include Corteva, Iowa Soybean Association, Iowa Independent Crop Consultants Association, ScoutPro, Iowa Certified Crop Advisors and Environmental Tillage Systems.
Watch a recap of last year’s event here.
To participate in the competition, all you need is a team of two-to-five youth and an adult coach. There is no cost for registration. Reimbursement for some travel costs is also available.
For more information, contact Maya Hayslett at hayslett@iastate.edu.
Date: July 29th, 2019
Location: Field Extension Education Laboratory, 1928 240 St., Boone, IA.
Time: Registration begins at 8 a.m. Competition starts at 8:30 a.m. and will end by 2:30 p.m.
Meals: Lunch, beverages and snacks will be provided.
*Travel reimbursements are available