The Pesticide Safety Education Program (PSEP) at the University of Illinois has recently expanded our team to include a new trainer. This new addition will be responsible for creating and delivering course content. Please help us in welcoming John...
Farmers are at the forefront of the fight against weeds. When livelihoods are on the line and herbicide resistance continues to be a growing problem, growers may want to consider a multi-faceted approach to weed control. This is where integrated weed management becomes invaluable for farmers....
At this time of year, when pesticides are commonly being used, it is important to take the time to properly clean and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The following is taken, with little revision, from the national Pesticide Applicator Core Manual first edition and was...
Illinois pesticide applicators should familiarize themselves with two new laws that restrict pesticide applications around schools. The intent of course is to minimize student exposure to pesticides when they are used to reduce the risks to students from noxious weeds, disease bearing insects, and...
As the growing season begins in Illinois, it is not just our crops that will be sprouting. Growers should soon begin monitoring their fields for agricultural weeds and making plans to manage them. What is a weed?A weed is any plant that is growing where it is not wanted. For...
Farmers have a huge role to play in keeping our waters clean. According to the National Water Quality Assessment, agricultural runoff is the leading cause of water quality impacts on rivers and streams. Runoff from agricultural fields often contains nutrients from fertilizers,...
Happy Arbor Day! Every year people around the globe celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees in their communities. To celebrate Arbor Day the ag way, we’re going to discuss how farmers can incorporate trees into their operations (aka agroforestry).Agroforestry is the integration of trees...
Stewardship (noun): the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.The National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) is celebrating the 68th annual Stewardship Week from April 28th- May 5th, 2024. The NACD...
As the growing season fast approaches, farmers need to prepare for the fertility needs of their crops. While soybeans may not require nitrogen like corn does, this crop has its unique nutrient requirements. In addition to phosphate and potash, soybeans also need sufficient sulfur to...
The Illinois Department of Agriculture has announced the single-day collection sites and dates for the 2024 Pesticide Container Recycling Program. Dates and locations are available on the Illinois Department of Agriculture website's ...