Farmers, agribusiness consultants, pesticide sales and service professionals, crop consultants and field crop educators can get a jump on the 2009 growing season with updates and recommendations for handling potential pest problems by attending the Integrated Crop and Pest Management Update from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Dec. 16 at the Michigan State University Pavilion for Agriculture and Livestock Education.

This program will give participants access to new research-based information from MSU Extension specialists and other MSU faculty members. They'll also receive copies of the 2009 MSU Weed Control Guide and the 2009 MSU Insect, Nematode and Disease Control Guide.

"We'll look back at the 2008 season and discuss early forecast recommendations for next year," said George Silva, MSU Extension agriculture and natural resources educator based in Eaton County. "This information will help participants make decisions about year-end pesticide purchasing and sales decisions."

Michigan Department of Agriculture pesticide applicator certification credits and certified crop adviser credits are pending for this program.

The registration fee is $50 before Dec. 12 and $60 after that date. Registration includes lunch and refreshments, the weed and pest control guides and other MSU Extension bulletins.

The registration form is available at web1.msue.msu.edu/eaton/2008cropmanagementupdate.pdf.  

To register or learn more, contact the Eaton County MSU Extension office by calling 517-543-2310.

The 2008 Integrated Crop and Pest Management Update is sponsored by Eaton County MSU Extension and the MSU Extension Field Crops Team.