Extension invites new crop scouts, summer ag interns, entry-level agronomists, and crop scouts in need of a refresher course to the Foundational Crop Scouting Training Field Day on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at the Rock County Farm.
Designed specifically for those with limited field experience or those needing a seasonal refresher, this half-day workshop (10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.) bridges the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.
Attendees will move through the fields to master essential skills, including:
- Growth Staging and Stand Assessments: Mastering corn, soybean, wheat, and alfalfa.
- Pest and Weed Identification: Identifying common early-season Wisconsin threats.
- Sampling Techniques: Hands-on practice with sweep nets and soil collection.
- Professional Reporting: How to document findings for data-driven management.
Registration Details: The $50 registration fee includes lunch, snacks, and a “scout’s starter kit” featuring Wisconsin corn, soybean, wheat, and alfalfa growth staging guides and essential field supplies. Attendees are also encouraged to view the foundational webinar series on the Extension website prior to the event. Registration is available online.
Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. To secure a spot and watch on-demand training content, visit: go.wisc.edu/CropScoutTraining
For questions, contact Daniel H. Smith at 608-219-5170 or dhsmith@wisc.edu.