UNL West Central’s Precision Application Technology Lab Launches PEST Academy

Dec 09, 2025

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

Video: What Is Remote Sensing In Precision Agriculture? - The World of Agriculture

What Is Remote Sensing In Precision Agriculture? In this informative video, we will dive into the fascinating world of remote sensing and its role in precision agriculture. Remote sensing technology allows farmers to gather critical information about their fields without the need for physical presence. By utilizing satellites, drones, and aircraft equipped with advanced sensors, farmers can monitor various aspects of their crops, from temperature and moisture levels to overall plant health.

We will explore how the data collected through remote sensing can empower farmers to make strategic decisions for their crops. With the ability to identify specific areas that require more water or nutrients, farmers can optimize resource usage, leading to healthier plants and improved yields.

Moreover, remote sensing plays a vital role in tracking crop growth over time. By comparing images taken at different growth stages, farmers can evaluate their crops’ development and adjust their management practices accordingly.