Do you know a young person who enjoys being outside? Learning new things about crops? Are they considering a career involving crops, insects, diseases, soils, water or more? Do they want to figure out how to feed the world’s growing population in a sustainable way?

Nebraska Extension and the Nebraska Corn Board are offering the eighth Innovative Youth Corn Challenge. Open to 4-H members, age 10 and older as of Jan. 1, or FFA in-school members, the contest guides participants through all aspects of corn production, as well as agricultural careers related to corn production.

As a team of two or more, youth will be challenged to implement a production practice different than normal to determine if they increased their yield. Economics and sustainability of the practice will also be considered. Yields, cropping history and production information will be collected in the Corn Yield Challenge management summary.

Cash prizes and plaques are given. First place receives $1,000; second place, $500; and third, $250. Sustainability, crop scouting and “extra mile” awards are also given as cash awards.

To participate in 2019, youth must complete and return an entry form by March 15 to the Fillmore County Extension Office in Geneva, Neb. Forms can be downloaded after Jan. 1. For more information, contact Brandy VanDeWalle at [email protected].

Source: Nebraska Extension