Courses: list

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Agency and Program Policies and Updates

With each change to the Farm Bill, federal/state policy and appeals court ruling, how conservation programs are funded, implemented, evaluated and modified is constantly changing. To keep landowners in compliance, conservation advisors need to not only understand the latest interpretations, but be prepared to assist landowners in determining if they are eligible for programs. These courses will not only achieve these goals, but ensure staff are well prepared to help landowners compare the economic and environmental benefits of the programs available.

Course Title	Description	State
Nutrient Management TSP Training	January 22, 2009, 9:00-4:00p.m. Comfort Inn, Owatonna, MN (behind Cabela's, Exit 45 off of I35) NRCS Nutrient Management Practice Standard 590 and Program Policies. This one-day Technical Service Provider (TSP) training course will provide agricultural professionals and other service providers most of the training necessary to become certified to prepare nutrient management plans for USDA Conservation Programs. Participants will get a working understanding of the components of nutrient management planning with use of a “case farm�? that will be utilized throughout the day. Specific areas of focus will include NRCS program policies, manure and fertilizer management, sensitive areas and sensitive area management, and plan implementation. (CEUs: 3.5 Nutrient Management, 2.0 Soil and Water) http://tsp.umn.edu/nmptraining/index.html	MN
S-234, Ignition Operations	February 23-26, 2009, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Ridgewater College, Willmar, MN This 32-hour entry-level course meets NWCG standards for Ignition Operations. It provides training in the functional roles and responsibilities connected with firing operations, planning ignition procedures and equipment applicable to prescribed fires. Course objectives include: Describe the role and responsibility of the single resource boss, firing and prescribed fire ignition specialist, planning, execution, safety, training, and coordination of a non-incident burn operation. Analyze an ignition/firing plan and describe it’s validity. Write and ignition/firing plan to include ignition method, firing tactics, resource needs, and safety. Prerequisite: Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior (S-290) http://tsp.umn.edu/pdfs/prescribedburnflyer.pdf	MN
S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior	February 17-20, 2009 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Ridgewater College, Willmar, MN This 32-hour NWCG approved classroom-based skills course is designed to prepare the prospective supervisor to undertake safe and effective fire management operations, write prescribe burn plans for grassland restoration and habitat improvement. Course objectives include: Identify and describe environmental, topographical, and fuel factors that influence the behavior of wildland fire in prescribed burning. Assess fire line data and fire behavior estimations; identify areas of fire suppression limitations Prerequisite: Intro to Wildland Fire Behavior (S-190). http://tsp.umn.edu/pdfs/prescribedburnflyer.pdf	MN
WALCE Professional Improvement Conference	Annual Professional Improvement Conference of the Wisconsin Association of Land Conservation Employees (WALCE).	WI

Business Planning and Development

Conservation Planning

Conservation Planning is the integral "first step" that all crop and non-cropland conservation decisions are built upon. True conservation planning involves not only a working knowledge of the science behind the resource and potential management solutions, but an understanding of the cultural, social and economic factors that influence a landowner's decisions.

A farm's conservation plan is the base document from which all other land management options should start. Whether the farmer is considering a switching to rotational grazing, implementing a pest management plan or expanding their livestock operation, a poor or non-existent conservation plan can mean the difference between success and failure.

Course Title	Description	State
Advanced RUSLE2 and MN Phosphorus Index	February 4, 2009 New Ulm This hands-on class is intended for technical service providers. It builds on the information provided in the introductory class, to provide more detailed information on using RUSLE2 for soil erosion prediction. It will cover more details about building and using crop rotations, the tillage operations available for use in the program, how to choose an appropriate yield and how that affects the answers, and appropriate uses for the model. We will have time for questions and to explain answers/troubleshooting, and exercises using the software. The session includes an introduction to using the MN Phosphorus Index. (CEUs: 5.0 Soil and Water) http://tsp.umn.edu/advancedrusle/index.html	MN
CNMP References	CNMP References is a one day course that focuses on understanding and interpreting the technical standards for various agronomic and engineering practices implemented on farms. Participants will learn how to interpret and evaluate planned and previously installed management practices under both current and older versions of the technical standards to determine what improvements/changes/updates may need to be made.	MN,WI
CNMP Regulations	CNMP Regulations is a one day course designed to introduce students to the complex and overlapping regulations that dictate not only the implementation of CNMP Best Management Practices, but also day to day operations on the farm. Modules range from the macro scale (EPA nationally) to the township level and the ability of citizens to use legal remedies under the Clean Water Act. Wisconsin 2009 cost: $75	MN,WI
CNMP Site Assessment/Walkover	CNMP Site Assessment/Walkover is a two day course that allows students, in small groups, to implement what they have learned in the previous two courses. Experienced professionals review the proper techniques for assessing a farmstead, and then students assess an actual farm with assistance from the landowner, producing a resource concern summary that could be the basis for a CNMP action plan.	MN,WI
Field Evaluation for Conservation Practices	April 1, 2009 (register by March 4, 2009) New Ulm, MN Professionals who are practiced at evaluating a field for agronomic concerns will learn to assess a field for conservation concerns. This day-long on-farm and classroom training is intended for Technical Service Providers. Instructors will walk a farm with students to explain how to evaluate the need to control sediment losses, and ephemeral, gully, and sheet and rill erosion. Instructors will then explain how to select conservation practice alternatives that fit the farm’s landscape and producer’s management system and objectives. Emphasis will be placed on protecting the soil and water resources – especially for fields receiving nutrient applications. Knowledge gained will help qualify TSPs to work on the Land Treatment portions of CNMPs and nutrient management plans without relying heavily on agency personnel for help. (CEUs: 5.0 Soil and Water) http://tsp.umn.edu/fieldevaluation/index.html	MN
Rapid Whole Farm Resource Assessment	February 18, 2009 Hutchinson, MN Participants will gain skills in assessing the production and natural resources of the farm operation using various indices, spreadsheets, and ratings. These may include the Soil Conditioning Index, Soil Tillage Intensity Rating, Water Quality Score (CSP), Phosphorus Index, Habitat Suitability Index, Pasture Score, and other relevant ratings. Together, these ratings provide a comprehensive picture of the status of a farm’s resources. Participants will learn how to use and interpret the collection of ratings and how the results link to conservation planning and other applications. The course is presented by Ag Resource Strategies. (CEUs to be applied for) http://tsp.umn.edu/agresourceassessment/index.html	MN
TSP Orientation	The TSP orientation is a one-day course designed to provide private sector consultants, agronomists, and technical professionals an introduction to the basics of assisting landowners as Technical Service Providers (TSPs). It is highly recommended that participants begin the TSP process (http://techreg.usda.gov/TSPApplicationIntro.aspx) before the course is held. For more information, contact Kevin Erb 920.391.4652 Wisconsin 2009 cost: $75	WI
Understanding RUSLE2 Soil Loss Model	January 21, 2009 New Ulm, MN This hands-on class is intended for Technical Service Providers. It introduces the RUSLE2 soil loss model, how it works and the data necessary to run the program. The class also provides an overview of the soil erosion process so that participants will have a better understanding of what the program is modeling. Information will also be provided about other outputs from this program, including the Soil Conditioning Index and the Energy Estimator, and how these tools can be used in the conservation planning process. (CEUs: 3.5 Soil and Water) http://tsp.umn.edu/rusle/index.html	MN
WALCE Professional Improvement Conference	Annual Professional Improvement Conference of the Wisconsin Association of Land Conservation Employees (WALCE).	WI

Cropping Systems

Ecosystem Management - Forestry, Prairie, Wetland, Riparian

These courses relate to habitat management and land use: from wildlife enhancement, wetland and prairies restoration, to agro-forestry and riparian buffers. Courses cover the creation, enhancement and management of specific habitat types that may be part of a whole-farm conservation plan or as stand alone enhancement projects.

Course Title	Description	State
Advanced Forestry		WI
Basic Firefighter II	This course meets the NWCG training standards for employment by the following agencies: MN DNR; US Fish & Wildlife Service; US Forest Service; Bureau of Land Management; and the National Park Service. This course also meets requirements for employment by private contractors for prescribed burning and prairie restoration. The 40-hour class consists of L-180: Human Factors on the Fireline, S-130: Wildland Firefighter Training and S-190: Intro to Wildland Fire Behavior. Students will participate in practical exercises and use of firefighting tools, fire suppression and control techniques for prescribed burning. Prerequisite: NIMS I-700 and/or I-100 on Incident Command For more information	MN
Conservation of Native Pollinators	This day-long workshop will equip conservationists, land managers, educators and agricultural professionals with practical science-based approaches to increasing crop security and reversing the alarming trend of pollinator decline, especially in heavily managed agricultural landscapes.	WI
Introduction to Forestry: Conservation Planning Resource Assessment	Introduction to Forestry: Using NRCS's Nine Step Conservation Planning Process participants will learn the tools for integrating forestry planning into conservation plans and develop knowledge of basic forestry in order to assist farmers in their planning process. The course will be divided into a classroom portion and a field training section. Participants can chose either a north pine forest or a southern hardwood forest field focused session or opt to take both field courses. The classroom portion will introduce basic forest ecology, management principles and sampling techniques. Forest eco-regions and habitats will be discussed and the elements needed for a successful forestry plan will be reviewed. There will be a synopsis of state and federal programs available for woodlot management and a presentation of different assessment tools and techniques. The course will also touch on alternative management strategies and the risks to successful tree establishment. The Field training day will focus on identifying common trees and plants of a northern pine forest/southern hardwood forest. A walk-over of a local farm will be the setting to discuss site-specific issues and develop practical experience of the tools and assessment techniques presented in day one. Participants will complete a site inspection and assess the woodlot using techniques demonstrated, then teams work to write up and share recommendations based on the farmer's objectives. Disclaimer: Participants will not be trained foresters or certified in DNR Managed Forest Program.	WI
Introduction to Invasive Plant Management	Using current invasive plants as real-life examples, participants will learn the tools for integrating invasive plant management planning into conservation plans and develop knowledge of current management practices in order to assist clients in their planning process. This course is designed for the needs of conservation professionals from a wide variety of federal, state, county, local, private or NGO’s that help farmers and landowners to develop and implement land management strategies. The course will be composed of both classroom and field training sessions.	MN,WI
Mason Bee & Leafcutter Bee Management Workshop	In this workshop, participants will learn the basic practices necessary to manage populations of solitary cavity-nesting leafcutter and mason bees. Various members of these species are effective pollinators of all major bee-pollinated Wisconsin crops.	WI
NRCS Conservation of Native Pollinators	This day-long workshop for NRCS employees will equip conservationists, land managers, educators and agricultural professionals with practical science-based approaches to increasing crop security and reversing the alarming trend of pollinator decline, especially in heavily managed agricultural landscapes.	WI
Prescribed Burning	This conference is designed to provide working professionals and all involved in the prescribed fire field with in-depth, up-to-date information regarding tools and techniques, legislation and outreach, ecology, safety, and much more. Registration fees vary. Register at this web site: http://www.regonline.com/builder/site/Default.aspx?eventid=646124	WI
TSP Orientation	The TSP orientation is a one-day course designed to provide private sector consultants, agronomists, and technical professionals an introduction to the basics of assisting landowners as Technical Service Providers (TSPs). It is highly recommended that participants begin the TSP process (http://techreg.usda.gov/TSPApplicationIntro.aspx) before the course is held. For more information, contact Kevin Erb 920.391.4652 Wisconsin 2009 cost: $75	WI
WALCE Professional Improvement Conference	Annual Professional Improvement Conference of the Wisconsin Association of Land Conservation Employees (WALCE).	WI

Energy Development and Conservation

Human Relations Skills - Communication and Leadership

Hydrology - Drainage, Ground Water, Stormwater

Integrated Pest Management

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) allows the land manager to combine technical expertise and real-time field level knowledge to make the best pest management decisions. The end result takes into account not only the biology of the pest, but also the economic and environmental impacts of pest control decisions, allowing the manager to make the best choice for each individual situation.

Course Title	Description	State
Appleton IPM Field Scout Training School	This course is designed to provide the skills necessary for proper pest identification and crop scouting techniques. In addition, basic information such as crop growth and development, pest life cycle, damage symptoms and economic thresholds will be covered. However, specific pest control recommendations will not be discussed during this course. Crops covered will include, corn, alfalfa, wheat and soybeans. CCA credits of NM3, PM 18.5, SW 1, CM 7.5 have been applied for the Appleton Scout School. The crop scouting school is offered in sections of 1 credit or 3 credits for the entire course. Registration fee is $111.70/ day / credit or $327.10 for the entire week for 3 credits. Students will need to purchase the Crop Scouting manual for $35 on the first day of class. For additional information contact David Gerlach, 920-982-6114, or if you wish to register for the Appleton IPM Scout School, contact Nancy Buchholtz, 920-735-5672 at the FVTC Agricultural Center.	WI
Crop Diagnostic Training Center: Crop and Pest Management	This course is offered by the UWEX Crop Diagnostic Training Center. Download a brochure: http://ipcm.wisc.edu/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=RMbs%2f4yEwSE%3d&tabid=114&mid=669&forcedownload=true. A multi-disciplinary and in-depth workshop covering agronomic concerns ranging from identification of crop and pest production problems to management options within production systems. Registration Fee: $50 (2 tiered fee: $50 by 7/18/09; $60 after 7/18/09 Date: July 28, 2009 Location: Arlington Ag Research Station CCA CEU’s: 1.5 Nutrient Management, 1.5 Crop Management, 4.5 Pest Management To register, contact Dan Heider at djheider@wisc.edu.	WI
Crop Diagnostic Training Center: Diagnostic Troubleshooting	This course is offered by the UWEX Crop Diagnostic Training Center. Download a brochure This Workshop gives you the opportunity to fine tune your crop diagnostic skills in a fun and interactive setting. Small groups will rotate through field problems with UW Specialists role playing as farmers. Registration Fee: $50 (2 tiered fee: $50 by 8/8/09; $60 after 8/8/09) Date: August 18, 2009 Location: Arlington Ag Research Station CCA CEU’s: to be determined To register: contact Dan Heider at djheider@wisc.edu.	WI
Introduction to IPM	A single day course highlighting the principals of IPM, role of IPM in reducing potential surface / groundwater contamination, economic thresholds and interaction of conservation practices and pest populations. Optional for CCA's	WI
Pest Management Field Experience	A hands-on in-field training exercise in conjunction with the UW Madison Crop Diagnostic Training Center. Optional for CCA's.	WI
Pest Management Plan Evaluation	A full day training session on evaluating and interpreting pest management plans.	WI
Tools for Pest Management Planning	A one day hands-on session interpreting the 595 standard, using the pest management tools (Weedsoft, WinPST), and the theory of pest management plan development. Students will put together a formal 595 plan.	WI

Livestock Systems - Grazing, Manure, Feed Management

While the number of livestock farms had dropped significantly, the average number of animals per farm has increased greatly. This trend has led to significant changes in how livestock are housed, fed and raised, while at the same time created a waste management challenge, leading resource managers to look at the entire livestock operations, from what is fed to how manure is applied. Waste treatment technologies that only a few years ago existed only in industry are now being tried on farms.

These changes have also led to a rebirth of more traditional methods (grazing, small scale agriculture) and farms who are implementing new knowledge and management to maximize production and profitability.

Course Title	Description	State
Advanced CNMP Walkover	Advanced CNMP Walkover is a one day technical session focusing on the engineering side of the CNMP site assessment. It is a hands-on session that gives both engineering and agronomic professionals a chance to work together to learn advanced techniques in site assessment.	WI
CNMP Annual Update	CNMP Annual Update is a half day technical update on changes in the CNMP process and provides a chance for agencies to give feedback to planners to improve their plans. This course is offered either as a classroom or webinar, depending on the amount of material to be covered each year.	WI
CNMP References	CNMP References is a one day course that focuses on understanding and interpreting the technical standards for various agronomic and engineering practices implemented on farms. Participants will learn how to interpret and evaluate planned and previously installed management practices under both current and older versions of the technical standards to determine what improvements/changes/updates may need to be made.	MN,WI
CNMP Regulations	CNMP Regulations is a one day course designed to introduce students to the complex and overlapping regulations that dictate not only the implementation of CNMP Best Management Practices, but also day to day operations on the farm. Modules range from the macro scale (EPA nationally) to the township level and the ability of citizens to use legal remedies under the Clean Water Act. Wisconsin 2009 cost: $75	MN,WI
CNMP Site Assessment/Walkover	CNMP Site Assessment/Walkover is a two day course that allows students, in small groups, to implement what they have learned in the previous two courses. Experienced professionals review the proper techniques for assessing a farmstead, and then students assess an actual farm with assistance from the landowner, producing a resource concern summary that could be the basis for a CNMP action plan.	MN,WI
Grazing Advanced - Pasture Evaluation	A one-day in-pasture course covering grass identification, recovery times, species selection, plus in-field assessment tools.	WI
Grazing Plan Technical Requirements	May 21, 2009 A one-day session reviewing the technical standards and specifications for a grazing management plan. The participant will become familiar with the Prescribed/Managed Grazing Standard and the steps in developing a Managed Grazing Plan, such as defining objectives, conducting the resource inventory, completing an animal/forage balance, pasture and paddock design, and plan format. A field exercise is included. Fee is $75.	WI
Intermediate Managed Grazing - Designing Pasture Facilities and Structures	July 14-15, 2009 This is a 2-day course where the participant will learn the skills necessary to assist a landowner in designing and constructing the facilitating practices for the Managed Grazing Plan. The facilitating practices which will be covered, include fence, watering systems, pipelines, troughs, animal trails and walkways, access roads, and stream crossings. Field training in fence building and lane construction will be provided onsite. The Introductory Managed Grazing Training (Wisconsin Grazing School) is a prerequisite.	WI
Introduction to Managed Grazing	May 19-20, 2009 This introductory course, also referred to as the Wisconsin Grazing School is designed to teach producers, educators and agency staff the basics of management intensive grazing with a hands-on approach. This two-day, intensive workshop will provide opportunities for in-depth discussions, field exercises, and reference materials that cover both livestock and agronomic topics related to grazing. Topics include forage plant growth, species selection, recovery periods, animal health and nutrition, and pasture layout and design. This program is offered by UW-River Falls and the UW Extension Livestock Team. Fee $75 per day.	WI
Livestock Environmental Quality Assurance	March 24-25, 2009 Mankato, MN This 1 ½ day training gives conservation and agricultural professionals the assessment, planning and assurance skills needed to rate farms for the Livestock Environmental Assurance Consortium’s 5-Star Livestock Environmental Quality Assurance Program. Participants will learn how to assess a farm operation and describe how it stacks up with regard to environmental issues. The course is funded by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and presented by Ag Resource Strategies. (CEUs to be applied for) http://tsp.umn.edu/livestockeqa/index.html	MN
Local Government Institute of Wisconsin	Energy Independent Communities 4th Quarter Meeting	WI
Manure Spill Response Training	A two hour, live action demonstration of several techniques to prevent, contain and clean up manure spills and other ag releases.	WI
Midwest Manure Summit - FULL CONFERENCE	The conference will be filled with speakers, discussions, and new ideas that can be adapted to farms of any size. The Midwest Manure Summit is a conference for any agriculture producer or agri-business professional interested in manure handling and storage. Dealing with manure is a challenge for any farming operation and it's time to start using new technologies to best utilize and dispose of this waste. Leaders from across the world will be with us to address manure handling challenges and alternatives. Registration fee is $180.00 for March 24-25, 2009. Registration includes printed materials, Tuesday lunch, Tuesday evening tour of Lambeau Field, Wednesday breakfast, Wednesday lunch, and refreshments.	WI
Midwest Manure Summit - MARCH 24, 2009 ONLY	The conference will be filled with speakers, discussions, and new ideas that can be adapted to farms of any size. The Midwest Manure Summit is a conference for any agriculture producer or agri-business professional interested in manure handling and storage. Dealing with manure is a challenge for any farming operation and it's time to start using new technologies to best utilize and dispose of this waste. Leaders from across the world will be with us to address manure handling challenges and alternatives Registration fee is $100.00 for one day. Registration includes printed materials, Tuesday lunch, Tuesday evening tour of Lambeau Field, and refreshments.	WI
Midwest Manure Summit - MARCH 25, 2009 ONLY	The conference will be filled with speakers, discussions, and new ideas that can be adapted to farms of any size. The Midwest Manure Summit is a conference for any agriculture producer or agri-business professional interested in manure handling and storage. Dealing with manure is a challenge for any farming operation and it's time to start using new technologies to best utilize and dispose of this waste. Leaders from across the world will be with us to address manure handling challenges and alternatives. Registration fee is $100.00 for one day. Registration includes printed materials, Wednesday breakfast, Wednesday lunch, and refreshments.	WI
P Index/SNAP Plus	P Index/SNAP Plus is a half day session (usually included with the Site Assessment course) that trains students on the basics of the P Index and Wisconsin Nutrient Management software package SNAP Plus. It includes a discussion of the Rusle2 soil loss model and how it is integrated into the P Index software.	WI

Organic Farming

Agricultural production without the use of non-natural inputs (herbicides, insecticides, fertilizers) is one of the most rapidly growing aspects of agriculture. Courses in this area will assist resource managers in understanding not only the basic production system, but also certification/inspection requirements, alternative methods used by organic producers and the economics of organic systems.

Course Title

Description

State

Intro to Organic Systems for Ag Professionals

This one-day, on-farm course is designed to introduce agency staff and TSPs to the basics of organic production systems. It is an introductory level course sponsored jointly by this training program and NWTC. The learning objectives are:

Explore organic farming systems’ uniqueness, both operationally and in terms of USDA programs
Study the differences between organic and conventional management
Examine the steps necessary to transition land from conventional into organic
Be able to write and/or evaluate an organic transition plan
Find resources that are available for the organic farmer

NOTE: You must register for this course through NWTC. WSTC course catalog #47-090-499: Intro to Organic Systems for Ag Professionals. Phone registration only: Northeast Wisconsin Technical College 920-498-5444 Course fee is $75

Organic Transistion Plan Training

At the end of this session, students should:

Have an understanding of what NRCS wants in a plan and how it should look like
Be able to develop a plan that not only meets the standards but is easy for the farmer to understand, follow, and implement
NRCS staff should have a understanding of questions that may come from organic community
Be able to explain the basic practice standards that may be implemented as part of a OTP

TSP Orientation

The TSP orientation is a one-day course designed to provide private sector consultants, agronomists, and technical professionals an introduction to the basics of assisting landowners as Technical Service Providers (TSPs). It is highly recommended that participants begin the TSP process (http://techreg.usda.gov/TSPApplicationIntro.aspx) before the course is held.

For more information, contact Kevin Erb 920.391.4652

Wisconsin 2009 cost: $75

Soil and Soil Erosion

Courses in this area focus on the basics of soil creation, biology (soil quality), nutrient cycling and management practices used to mitigate soil erosion (both by wind and water). Courses incorporate best management practices to enhance soil health, increase productivity and decrease soil loss.

Course Title	Description	State
Cover Crops	Increasing fertilizer and fuel prices are driving an increasing farmer interest in cover crops. This workshop will cover the basics of helping farmers integrate cover crops into farming systems, focusing on primary benefits of improving soils, reducing nutrient losses and decreasing erosion/off-site sedimentation. Participants will also learn how to use new tools to select and manage the right cover crop to reduce each field's environmental footprint.	IN
Managing Nutrients on Wisconsin Soils	March 11-12, 2009 Madison, WI This is an intensive 2-day workshop covering the basic principles of soil fertility and nutrient management. It is designed for industry and agency personnel without extensive training in soil fertility or for those individuals desiring a refresher prior to attending the Training for Nutrient Management Planners workshop. The learning objectives are to provide individuals with a fundamental understanding of soil fertility principles and nutrient management options for Wisconsin soils. For registration information contact Carol Duffy at 608-262-0485, cjduffy@wisc.edu	WI
Preferential Flow / Tile Smoking Demonstrations	Ever wonder how tillage systems affect how quickly water drains to tile lines? We will be hooking up an air compressor and smoke bombing tile drainage systems at locations in Wisconsin to show how this method can be used to find broken tile, locate tile lines, and evaluate soil health.	WI
WALCE Professional Improvement Conference	Annual Professional Improvement Conference of the Wisconsin Association of Land Conservation Employees (WALCE).	WI

State Regulations and Updates

Technical Software - Autocad, GIS

These courses provide both an overview and hands on experiences using electronic tools used by resource managers to help landowners protect and enhance the environment. Seminars range from highly technical general use software (AutoCad, GIS applications) to specific needs software (MMP, SNAP Plus, Phosphorus Indexing) to field level uses of surveying equipment.

Course Title

Description

State

Basic SNAP Plus

SNAP Plus is the Wisconsin-supported software package for developing Nutrient Management Plans in accordance with the WI NRCS 590 standard. It includes a fully integrated version of RUSLE2 which generates an erosion estimate for each field and the Wisconsin Phosphorus Index (PI).

This training session introduces the SNAP Plus program, and takes participants though the process of creating a 590, P Index and Erosion Estimate for each field on a sample farm. Participants are encouraged to experiment with various techniques to reduce the PI and Erosion Estimates for each field during the session.

Copies of the program can be downloaded in advance at www.snapplus.net

GIS Workshop Descriptions

Introduction to GIS and ArcGIS 9 - Madison, Thursday 9 July 2009, 9:30 am – 5:00 pm

As the name suggests, this workshop introduces the participants to the conceptual and theoretical background of GIS and gives them basic, hands-on experience using ArcGIS 9. Some of the topics that will be included in this workshop are: data types and models, projections, map making, and spatial data analysis.

Accessing Geospatial Environmental Data - Appleton, Monday 27 July 2009, 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Geospatial data are increasingly made available by local, regional, state, and federal agencies. The goal of this workshop is to familiarize users with geospatial environmental data sources (which are primarily state or federally-based) and how to access these data. Data explored and acquired in this workshop include soils, digital elevation models (DEMs), land cover, and wetlands data. In order to make use of the data accessed in the workshop, the workshop will also cover a couple of geospatial tools (e.g., soil data viewer, creating slopes from DEMs).

Land Suitability Analysis with ArcGIS - Eau Claire, Wednesday 19 August 2009, 9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Land suitability analysis (LSA) is an investigation used to determine the fitness of a piece of land for a specified use or for development in general. It is a fundamental analysis for environmental and land use planners as it can integrate a range of natural resource-based and land use policy-based constraints for development.

The intent of this workshop is to introduce practitioners to a GIS-based land suitability analysis. The workshop teaches two distinctly different methods of conducting a land suitability analysis. The first method involves analyzing the defined constraints with a raster-based analysis and lets the user incorporate weights to different criteria. The second method involves analyzing the constraints using a vector-based analysis.

In order to reserve a spot, please answer the following questions and e-mail Asli Göçmen at gocmen@wisc.edu . We will keep track of registration and notify you about whether there is a seat for you in the specified workshop or whether your name will be kept in a waiting list. In the latter case, we will be in touch with you few days prior to the workshop and inform you whether a spot has opened up for you. Once your seat is confirmed, details on the location will follow.

Understanding RUSLE 2 Soil Loss Model

RUSLE2 is an advanced, user-friendly software model that predicts long-term, average-annual erosion by water. It runs under Windows, and can be used for a broad range of farming, conservation, mining, construction, and forestry sites. Its origin was the widely-used DOS-based Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). The extensive climate, soil, vegetation, and cropping management databases available for that model are currently being enhanced, prior to deploying RUSLE2 in several thousand USDA NRCS field offices.

This half-day hands-on class introduces the RUSLE 2 soil loss model, how it works, and the data necessary to run the program.

The USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Partners in this Regional Program are also equal opportunity providers and employers.