By Andi Anderson
As spring approaches, Michigan farmers are preparing for a new season filled with opportunities and challenges. During the winter, many farmers spend time planning, repairing equipment, and setting goals to make the most of their 2026 production season.
To support these efforts, Michigan State University Extension is launching the 2026 Field Crops Virtual Breakfast Series, a weekly online program designed to help farmers stay informed and ready for the months ahead.
Now entering its ninth year, the Virtual Breakfast Series is aimed at farmers, agribusiness professionals, and anyone interested in agriculture. The sessions will run every Thursday from March 26 through Sept. 17, 2026, from 7 to 8 a.m. Eastern Time.
Each session will begin with a focused presentation from 7 to 7:20 a.m., led by MSU Extension educators, specialists, or invited guests. Topics are selected to match the seasonal stage of field crops and address real challenges farmers may face at that moment.
Following the presentation, the program transitions into a weather update from 7:20 to 7:35 a.m., delivered by Michigan State University agriculture climatologist Jeff Andresen, PhD.
The weather segment helps participants understand forecasts and prepare for upcoming conditions in their fields.
The final portion of each session features a 25‑minute Q&A segment, allowing participants to ask questions directly to MSU Extension experts. This interactive format ensures farmers can receive timely, research‑based answers to problems that arise throughout the season.
An important feature of the series is the opportunity for licensed pesticide applicators to earn restricted use pesticide (RUP) credits.
Most sessions offer one RUP credit for qualifying applicators, while certified crop advisors can earn one continuing education unit (CEU). These credits help professionals maintain their certifications while staying informed on current agricultural topics.
The weekly schedule includes sessions on soil management, weed control, planting strategies, pest management, crop diseases, irrigation, cover crops, farmland values, and precision agriculture. The program is free and easy to join through Zoom using a computer, phone, or mobile device.
Participants need to sign up once to receive weekly email reminders and Zoom access links, making the series accessible and convenient for farmers throughout the growing season.
Photo Credit: michigan-state-university-msu-extension
Categories: Michigan, Education