Seed treatment educational event set for November 20 in Michigan

By Andi Anderson

A comprehensive seed treatment educational session will be held on November 20, 2024, at Clinton County Smith Hall, St. Johns, Michigan, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

This full-day event is designed for individuals involved in seed treatment or those interested in expanding their knowledge. Topics covered include equipment use, treated seed storage, various carriers and treatments, as well as best practices in seed treatment.

Attendees will have the chance to earn eight restricted-use pesticide (RUP) credits, including category 4, commercial core, and private core credits.

This credit opportunity aims to support ongoing education for professionals in the field, ensuring they stay informed about safe and effective practices in seed treatment.

The event cost is $40 per person, which includes a lunch break. Future sessions will be offered regularly in shorter time blocks to make educational credits more accessible, both in person and online.

The agenda includes key topics to provide a thorough understanding of seed treatment:

• 7:30 a.m.: Check-in and registration
• 8:00 a.m.: Equipment use, maintenance, and calibration
• 9:30 a.m.: Application and disposal
• 10:45 a.m.: Seed coloration and carriers
• 11:30 a.m.: Pesticides and environmental impact
• 12:15 p.m.: Lunch
• 12:45 p.m.: Label comprehension
• 1:15 p.m.: Biological seed treatments in soybeans
• 1:45 p.m.: Common pests in seed treatment
• 3:00 p.m.: Personal protective equipment (PPE)
• 3:30 p.m.: Proper storage techniques
• 4:00 p.m.: Calculating use rates

Participants can register online or by contacting the Van Buren County Michigan State University Extension office. Any questions regarding the event or registration can be directed to Michigan State University Extension field crops educators.

This event offers an excellent opportunity for agricultural professionals to deepen their knowledge of seed treatment processes and earn valuable credits, contributing to safer and more efficient farming practices.

Photo Credit: istock-darcymaulsby