This training
is part of the NU Integrated Crop Management Winter Programs. Trainers
are from the NU faculty and the agricultural industry. The clinics
provide an unbiased approach by highly skilled trainers.
The program includes
a look at the fascinating variety and quantity of soil micro-organisms
found in the soil. Participants will examine the many species of micro-organisms
found in the soil and their function in the environment.
Participants
will learn about the role of micro-organisms in soil fertility. Discover
practices that encourage better soil fertility through more diversity
of soil microorganisms.
The principles
of cover crops will be explored. This includes research findings and
farmer experimentation for identification of suitable cover crops,
as well as manure and compost management.
The kind and quantity
of soil organic matter has a tremendous role in the diversity of micro-organisms.
This in turn influences soil fertility. Discussion will center on
means and methods of increasing organic matter in the soil.
Rotation of crops can have a significant role in increasing crop yields.
Participants will look at the relationship between cover crops and
soil fertility. Some of the results of studies conducted in Southeast
Nebraska on the effect of rotations on crop yields will be included.
The workshop includes
a look at the indicators of soil quality. This includes pH, soil structure,
permeability of water, porosity of water, bulk density, compaction,
electric conductivity, and others. Field tests for these factors will
be demonstrated.
Presenters for
this workshop include NU Cooperative Extension Educators Jim Peterson,
Paul Hay, and Keith Glewen; Dr. Rhae Drijber, NU Associate Professor
of Agronomy and Horticulture; Dr. Charles Wortmann, NU Assistant Professor
and Nutrient Management Specialist in Agronomy and Horticulture; and
Tim Schaaf, Natural Resources Conservation Service Conservation Agronomist
at York, Nebraska.
Early registration
is recommended as some classes have limited space. Fee for this workshop
is $40. REGISTER 1-WEEK IN ADVANCE &
SAVE $10! Register by November 18, 2003 and the fee is $30.
Fees include lunch,
refreshment breaks, and all workshop materials. Also included in the
registration fee is a course instruction manual which is yours to
take home with you. The manuals are an excellent resource guide for
use in your profession, CCA test preparation or for general reference.
NU Cooperative
Extension, a division of the Institute of Agriculture and Natural
Resources, sponsor the training. Register online at http://ardc.unl.edu/registration.htm,
call (402)624-8000, fax (402)624-8010, e-mail cdunbar2@unl.edu, or
write to NU ARDC, CMDC Programs, 1071 County Road G, Ithaca, Neb.
68033.
