Webster County IPM Workshop

Issue (Who Cares and Why?):  Disease identification and management; weed identification and management; insect identification of both beneficial and non-beneficial insects and managent; soil fertility, soil compaction, deficiency symptomology, growth state and development; pesticide laws, labeling and use.

What Has Been Done?:  Four in-depth sessions with topics including entomology, plant pathology, weed science, soil science and plant growth were held in Webster County.  A portion of each class was very interactive and “hands-on”.  Producers were taught identification methods, fertilization considerations, soil and water conservation, growth stages and the importance of each stage, crop rotation, resistant variety selection, and other management techniques one can utilize to increase profit and decrease problems. Pesticide safety, modes of action, labeling and laws were also covered.

Impact:

1. In this county agriculture is the biggest industry therefore, farming is a way of life for many.  Agriculture is constantly changing and with these changes producers are striving to keep abreast.  During a “Direct Connect” meeting with the University of Kentucky Department Chairs, Webster County producers requested an IPM school be held in Webster County.  These producers want to be better equipped to manage their farming operation and this includes in-depth training in the area of entomology, weeds, diseases, soils and plant production.  By utilizing IPM practices, farmers can head-off potential problems and remain good neighbors.  

An average of 12 producers, 3 agents and 11 specialist participated in the first IPM workshop in Webster County.  According to follow-up interviews, producers began growth staging their own crops and made management decisions accordingly.  75% of the participating producers made the decision to NOT spray for Soybean Rust AFTER attending the workshop.  This represents 9500 acres yielding a savings of  $190,000.00.  Producers learned IPM strategies and the range of benefits and opportunities gained by implementing these practices.

For more information on this project contact:
Vicki Shadrick
Webster County Extension Service
118 US Hwy 41-A South
Dixon, KY 
 E-mail: vshadric@uky.eduedu

Original document: 1 October 2005 Last updated: 29 March 2006