The University of Minnesota Extension is excited to announce that up to 42 Minnesota FFA chapters can join Team Soybean! Participating chapters will receive a complimentary soybean cyst nematode (SCN) soil sampling kit, learn valuable skills and help Minnesota soybean producers – all while having fun!
This program, sponsored by the Minnesota Soybean Research and Promotion Council, will introduce the next generation of crop producers and ag service providers to SCN, a microscopic worm that parasitizes soybean roots and is the most yield-limiting pathogen of soybean. Active SCN management begins with determining whether and to what extent farm fields are infested with SCN. FFA members that are a part of Team Soybean! will learn in both the classroom and in farmers’ fields how to collect SCN soil samples, interpret SCN test results and develop and communicate to farmers SCN population-based management recommendations for each sampled field.
“This program is very exciting and will positively benefit FFA students and farmers alike,” said Angie Peltier, Extension crops educator. “Students will participate in carrying out fieldwork that will directly affect current and future crop production decisions. They’ll gain important skills to have as they continue their studies and ultimately choose a profession.”
Soybean producers, students, and community members that would like for their local FFA chapter to join Team Soybean! should contact their local school. Minnesota ag teachers: to get your questions about this program answered or to sign your FFA chapter up to be a part of Team Soybean!, contact: Angie Peltier (218) 281-8692, apeltier@umn.edu or Anthony Hanson (320) 589-1711 ext. 2124, hans4022@umn.edu.
