The University of Nevada Cooperative Extension is presenting a "Weed Extravaganza" April 30 to May 2 at the California Trail Interpretive Center (Hunter Exit, 8 miles west of Elko, north of I-80). The workshop, also sponsored by Elko County Association of Conservation Districts, Humboldt Watershed Cooperative Weed Management Area and the Nevada Department of Agriculture, will discuss a wide range of topics, including weed management and herbicide equipment calibrations.
The event begins with the 11th Annual Elko County Weed Summit on April 30, 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., focusing on state weed laws, weed species and weed mapping. Humboldt County Extension Educator Brad Schultz is the featured speaker for the workshop, discussing "Weed Seed Banks: Why Early Detection and Rapid Response is a Critical Component of a Weed Management Program." Extension will also host an afternoon field trip, which will focus on identification of weeds during their vulnerable growth stages.
Those seeking restricted-use pesticide certification can attend the Pesticide Applicator Training/Weed Identification and Management Workshop on May 1, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Participants who attend this workshop and the April 30 event can earn 14 continuing education units, including those required for laws and safety credit. Certification exams will be offered May 2 at 7:15 a.m.
Kent McAdoo, Cooperative Extension natural resources specialist, said the Pesticide Applicator Training Workshop will provide participants with a better understanding of pesticides.
"The term 'pesticide' is often misunderstood," McAdoo said. "Pests include not just insects and rodents, but invasive weeds as well. Herbicides are the type of pesticides used to control weeds."
Participants are welcome to attend any or all of the sessions, according to their interests and needs. The workshops on April 30 and May 1 are free to the public. However, those planning to attend on April 30 are encouraged to RSVP to Candie Kevan at kevanc@unce.unr.edu or (775) 738-7291 by April 26. Those wishing to take certifications exams on May 2 must pay $25 at the door. For additional information, please contact McAdoo at mcadook@unce.unr.edu or (775) 738-1251.
Cooperative Extension will also be hosting introductory-level training in invasive weeds at its Weed Warriors Basic Training Workshop May 20, 1 to 5 p.m. and May 21, 8 a.m. to noon, at 4955 Energy Way in Reno. Contact Ashley Andrews at Andrews@unce.unr.edu for more information.
