By Karlie Gerlach
The Precision Application Technology (PAT) Lab at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte is launching the Precision Education in Spray Technologies (PEST) Academy, a research-based and hands-on training program designed to equip individuals with the technical knowledge and operational skills needed for optimized, sustainable and data-driven pest management.
The academy, supported by the Nebraska Corn Board, aims to bridge science-based learning with practical, real-world demonstrations to strengthen decision-making, ensure regulatory compliance and enhance the long-term sustainability of crop protection programs.
“The PEST Academy empowers agricultural professionals to make data-driven, efficient, and environmentally responsible decisions that support sustainable crop production and long-term stewardship across Nebraska and beyond,” said Milos Zaric, a precision pesticide application specialist in the PAT Lab.
Private and custom applicators, crop consultants and industry professionals will gain more than 16 hours of professional instruction through the academy. Learning opportunities offered include:
- Guidance on label interpretation
- Hands-on spray training
- Enhanced understanding of spray additives
- Data-driven tools and evaluations
Source : unl.edu