Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to host two-part nutrient management school this summer
Richmond, Virginia – The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Nutrient Management Program has announced a valuable learning opportunity for those interested in agricultural nutrient management. A two-part training school is scheduled for June and July 2025, aimed at helping participants understand how to create effective nutrient management plans and possibly become certified plan writers.
The program will cover essential aspects of nutrient management, which plays a major role in modern farming decisions. “Nutrient management continues to be an important factor in a farmer’s decision-making process when considering application of materials to supply nutrients to crops,” officials explained. Nutrient management plans help determine the right amount of materials like manure, fertilizers, biosolids, and other amendments that should be applied. These plans ensure that crops receive enough nutrients to maximize yields while reducing the risk of nutrient runoff and protecting ground and surface water.
Two-Part Training Covers Both Science and Practical Application
The first session of the training will take place on June 24-25, 2025, and will feature a lecture series hosted online. Professors from Virginia Tech will lead lessons focused on important topics such as soil science, soil fertility, and crop production. This part of the course will lay the foundation for understanding how nutrients interact with soil and crops.
The second session will be held in-person at Blue Ridge Community College in Weyers Cave, VA, from July 8-10, 2025. This part of the program will focus on hands-on learning, as participants will work through the process of nutrient management plan writing using a case-study farm. Each day of both sessions will run from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m..
Registration for each session is set at $150, with important deadlines fast approaching. The sign-up deadline for the first session is June 13, 2025, and for the second session, it is June 30, 2025. Those interested can register online at www.dcr.virginia.gov/soil-and-water/nmtrain.
For more details, individuals can contact Stephanie Dawley at 804-382-3911 or by email at [email protected].
