Agricultural Training Programs
Seventy-six private pesticide applicators completed educational training programs in Van Buren County. Education focuses on applicator safety, protecting our environment and maintaining the world’s safest food supply. The latest in research and technical information is provided to agribusinesses consultants so they are able to assist their clients.
Iowa State University Department of Entomology also sponsors continuing instructional courses for Certified Commercial Pesticide Applicators. Training is provided for county and state employees, landscaping businesses, greenhouse managers, pest control operators,
agri-businesses, and aerial operators. This is a local service to assist businesses in getting their necessary education and certification without long distance traveling.
ISU Extension Assists Area Wineries
Iowa State University Extension has assisted local wineries in the development process, and we will continue to do so in educational opportunities for area viticulturists. We estimate that our in-kind involvement will entail making
contact with ISU Extension Specialists. Local wineries have been involved with learning about production agriculture in the viticulture industry. They have been learning about business structures and marketing opportunities, as well as the value of networking with others.
It is with pleasure that we provide our continued support of value-added agricultural development efforts.
This aspect of our local economy has proven to offer alternative means of income to area producers in a time that commodity agriculture continues to struggle.
This project will allow producers to network and to gain from each other’s experiences in a practical manner. We look forward to continuing our work with this project.
Conserving Energy—Reducing Poverty
Wasko Hardware, Keosauqua, collaborated with the Horizons Leadership Program with an energy conservation workshop in February. Keosauqua residents were given many examples of home adaptation for home energy conservation.
Follow up surveys revealed approximately $1500 was saved from energy presented/adopted conservation practices.
Adult-Youth Mentoring
Horizon leaders have presented at 5 worksites sharing professional development opportunities. Adults will be mentored for career advancement. Youth mentoring—36 youth retreated to a cultural experience/fine dining in Des Moines as part of the Horizons youth and mentoring experience. More activities are planned for youth mentoring in 2009.