- Author:
Jeffrey Mitchell
KARE outreach and education leader, Laura Van Der Staay, along with UCD Cooperative Extension Cropping Systems Specialist, Jeff Mitchell, had their hands full with over 300 enthusiastic Tulare County 4th graders as part of the 2017 half-day AgVentures extravaganza that was held at the International Ag Center on May 12. This is the third time the two of them have taken part in this activity that is always a big hit with the kids, teachers and parents. Students learned about soil science and research that is underway at the KARE Center related to soil function and management and also had a chance to see up close and personal how soils can change if they are managed using conservation agriculture practices. While the day is always grueling, both Van Der Staay and Mitchell departed after a hearty hamburger lunch that was provided by the event organizers with the satisfaction of having hopefully expanded horizons and inspired a new generation of science-loving students.
- Author: Laura J. Van der Staay
Andreas Westphal helped provide back to back meetings that concentrated on sharing research, discoveries, and disease problems, as well as developing and new pest management technologies for soilborne diseases. These diseases include fungus, nematode, bacteria, and virus populations found in the soil. Attendees included personnel from universities, state agencies, and multiple components of the Ag industry. Information was shared in meeting rooms and field sites. Soilborne pests of food crops, ornamental plants and native plants were discussed. The basic agenda is available online.
- Author: Jeannette E. Warnert
- Contributor: Laura J. Van der Staay
Two unique workshops on soil quality will be provided this week. One will be held on Tuesday,
December 10, 2013, on the UC Davis campus in 3001 PES (Physical and Environmental Sciences) at 11:00 am and the other will take place in Five Points on Wednesday, December 11, s013, also at 11:00 am.
The sessions will feature Brendon Rockey, a farmer from Center, CO and Jay Fuhrer, an NRCS District Conservationist from Bismarck, ND. They’ll be leading the workshop that will also include a lunch and a follow-up discussion.
For further information, please contact Jeff Mitchell, CE Cropping Systems Specialist, Kearney Agricultural Research & Extension Center, at (559) 303-9689 or jpmitchell@ucdavis.edu.
