The UW–Madison Division of Extension Crops and Soils Program has released two resources for field crop scouting: the Field Scouting Report Template and the Scouting Tools Checklist. Together, these resources enhance the efficiency and accuracy of field crop scouting, supporting better decision-making and crop management.
Complementing the report template, the Scouting Tools Checklist provides a detailed list of essential tools for effective field scouting. It covers field tools like soil probes, insect vials, and sweep nets, as well as personal materials such as sunscreen and bug repellant. This checklist ensures scouts are well-prepared for any situation they might encounter in the field, promoting thorough and accurate assessments.
Scouting Tools Checklist
Build your scouting toolbox so you are prepared when you arrive at the field to scout. You never know what supplies might come in handy when investigating a potential issue. Storing common tools in a tote in your vehicle is an easy way to keep them together to make sure you have everything you need when you hit the field.
Field Tools
Always carry with you!
- Storage clipboard with report forms
- Field maps or plot book
- Crop development and pest ID guides
- Pens, pencils, and permanent markers
- Pocket knife
- Shears or scissors
- Trowel and shovel
- Sweep net
- Hand lens
- Clicker counter
- Tape measure or reel tape measure
- Seed depth finder
- Flags, stakes, and flagging tape
- Camera
Personal Materials
- Sunscreen
- Bug repellent
- Sun or baseball hat
- Good walking shoes or boots
- Rubber boots or overshoes
- Dry socks and shoes
- Waterproof bib overalls
- Water
Sampling and Diagnostic Tools
- Soil probe
- Soil sample bags
- Small plastic buckets
- Insect vials
- Plastic and paper lunch bags
- Small cooler and ice packs
- PEAQ stick or yardstick
Miscellaneous Items
- Paper towels
- Wet wipes or hand wipes
- First aid kit or bandages
- Nitrile gloves
- Duct tape
Foundational Crop Scouting Training
FEATURED RESOURCE