Crop scouting event for youths set for July 19 at University of Missouri Bradford Research Farm

COLUMBIA, Mo. — Youths can learn to scout for weeds, diseases and insects in crops July 19 at the University of Missouri Bradford Research Farm.

Missouri 4-H Crop Scouting Day is for students ages 11 to 18. “Much of the day will focus on teaching and hands-on training,” said MU Extension weed specialist Mandy Bish in a press release.

Students do not have to be 4-H members to participate, but nonmembers will need to create a 4-H account at 4Honline.com to register for the event.

Groups will rotate through stations on plant diseases, pesticide applications, weed identification and more, Bish said. The event includes a contest portion for youth who know crop pests and are looking to hone their skills.

“The event will also provide an opportunity for students to build connections with professionals,” Bish said. MU Extension state specialists frequently hire students to help with sample processing and data collection, she said.

Cost is $25 per youth; leaders are free. The fee covers lunch, awards and other supplies needed for the day. Registration deadline is July 10. Learn more at mizzou.us/4HCropScouting.

For questions, contact Bish at bishm@missouri.edu or Missouri 4-H educator Maria Calvert at calvertml@missouri.edu.