ON-FARM WORKSHOP WILL LINK IPM PRACTICES WITH NRCS GOALS

On June 25, the Maine Department of Agriculture will host an on-farm workshop that demonstrates conservation-based integrated pest management (IPM) practices for vegetable production. Funded by USDA-CSREES through the Northeastern IPM Center, this workshop will focus on using IPM practices to promote NRCS conservation goals, with the objective of helping growers improve crop yield and pest control while minimizing environmental impacts. Participants will learn how IPM and conservation practices complement one another and benefit vegetable production, and how growers can earn financial assistance from NRCS for using IPM practices. Topics will include: cover cropping, insect and weed identification and management, soil quality, economic thresholds, pest monitoring, zone till demonstration, conservation planning and practices, and plant nutrition and health.

WHEN AND WHERE
The workshop will be held June 25, 2007 from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM at two vegetable farms located in the central coast region in Nobleboro and Jefferson, Maine. See attached flyer for details.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND?
Agricultural professionals (consultants, Extension-based IPM specialists, and NRCS staff) will get to see IPM and conservation practices in action and will learn how to facilitate participation of vegetable and small fruit growers in NRCS technical assistance and cost-share programs.
Growers will learn about different IPM practices and their conservation benefits, and how NRCS conservation programs can help their farms.
Certified Crop Advisors and pesticide applicators will be eligible to receive continuing education credits (3 Maine Nutrient Management credits plus 5 New England pesticide recertification credits are offered; certified crop advisor credits are pending).

REGISTRATION AND FEES: A $10 registration fee covers participation in the full-day program, including a catered lunch. Register by June 15 using the form at http://www.northeastipm.org/NRCS/workshops/June25.pdf. Please contact Kathy Murray (207-287-7616) for more information.