Jeri Geren
Diversified Agriculture
Natural Resources
Youth in Nature and Agriculture Safety Focus in April
AGRICULTURE, NATURAL RESOURCES, AND HORTICULTURE
Radio Program:
Alfalfa Weevil Control
Radio Program:
Nematodes
Radio Program:
Denitrification
Radio Program:
Herbicide Use
I have continued the pilot program called Think F.A.S.T (Farm and Ag Safety Training) with the American Farm Bureau. For the month of April, I have completed modules 6, 7, 8 and 9 out of the ten module course that I am teaching at the Cherryvale High School. I have covered a wide array of topics thus far. Those that I addressed this month include Module 6: Decision Making with Manual Labor, Module 7: Situational Management with Bins, Silos and Pits, Module 8: Empowerment with Chemicals and Pesticides, which I had Josh Coltrain assist with and Module 9: Tough Conversations with Slips Trips and Falls. These modules are providing in-depth instruction to many of the potential hazards around farms.
I was also able to help with a couple different activities that have allowed youth to become more familiar with the natural world. I assisted with the Envirothon contest that was held in Parsons earlier this month. The students learned about different topics such as soil, water and wildlife. I also assisted with a Wildlife Habitat Education Program (WHEP) that was held at the Great Plains Nature Center in Wichita. The students were able to learn about habitat requirements for different animals. Both of these activities were great opportunities for youth to explore nature and learn a little along the way.
Also in this month, Jacob Weber, Barbara Ames and I put on a successful program called “Grow Your Own Salsa.” There were 30 people in attendance for this mid-morning program. It was a fun program that received many wonderful comments. It was a great team effort within our district, and it was nice to use our staff resources effectively.
It has been a busy month full of nature education, safety trainings, salsa and other agriculture education lessons. There are many great things going on within the district, and I believe we are expanding our reach with every educational opportunity.