Michigan State University Extension will offer seed treatment education through two webinars and an in-person workshop in August and September, providing growers and industry professionals with information on pesticide application, equipment maintenance, product selection and safety.
Many field crop seeds planted throughout the Midwest are treated with pesticides. Proper application and product selection throughout the seed treatment process are important for plant and environmental health.
The first webinar is scheduled for Aug. 25 from noon to 2 p.m. It will cover seed treatment equipment maintenance and best practices, presented by Rick Smith of KSI International, as well as reducing and responding to pesticide exposure, presented by MSU Extension field crops educators Jenna Falor and Nicolle Ritchie.
A second webinar will be held Sept. 1 from 6 to 8 p.m. MSU Extension field crops pathologist Marty Chilvers will discuss fungicide seed treatment product efficacy and decision-making. Falor and Ritchie will cover product use rate calculations, colorants and carriers.
Two restricted use pesticide credits in categories 1A, 4 and Core, along with Certified Crop Adviser credits, have been requested for each webinar. Registration costs $10 per webinar or $20 for both sessions.
The in-person seed treatment workshop will be held Sept. 3 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Tuscola County MSU Extension Office in Caro, Michigan.
Topics will include use rate calculations, seed treatment equipment maintenance, personal protective equipment, industry trends, fungicide seed treatments, and the storage and disposal of pesticides and treated seeds.
Four restricted use pesticide credits in categories 1A, 4 and Private, along with CCA credits, have been requested for the in-person workshop. Registration costs $20, and lunch will be provided.
Registration information and the full agenda are available through Michigan State University Extension.
Source: Michigan State University, "Time well-spent for seed treatment education"