2017 Crop A Syst Training

NOTE: 2 DAY TRAINING, eventbrite only lists the starting date in some places.

On March 30-31st, 2017 a training on the Cropping assessment tool will be held at Agroliquid in St Johns, MI in Clinton County. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about the tool and how to work with a landowner. Newly added to this training will be presentations from A&L Labs on soil sampling procedures, reading a soil report, and nutrient recommendations.

The MAEAP Cropping System focuses on field-related environmental issues, such as irrigation and water use, soil conservation, and nutrient and pest management. The Cropping System is applicable to all crops grown in Michigan, including field crops and vegetables, fruit orchards, greenhouses crops and ornamental trees. Each Crop*A*Syst tool includes a series of risk questions to assess effective crop management practices and ground- and surface water protection resources. Crop*A*Syst helps develop and implement a plan to prevent water resource contamination while maintaining economic crop production. Plans conform to applicable Michigan Right-to-Farm guidelines and comply with applicable state and federal environmental regulations.

This is a core training session that addresses the Cropping System. The expected audience is MAEAP technicians and other Conservation District staff.

Training will be a mix of lecture, group work, and field work. Please bring needed gear.

Lunch will be provided both days.

Day 1

• Welcome and Introductions, Introduction to A Syst tools

• A&L Labs - Soil Sampling (methods and procedures) soil test reports, basics of fertility recommendations

• Introduction to Fertilizers

• Nutrient Management Practice & Group Work

Day 2

• Soil and Water Conservation

• Introduction to Pest Management

• Pasture

• Other Cropping concerns

• Irrigation

• Training Q&A

• Agroliquid Research Station Tour