Researchers at the California State University, University of California and community college systems are collaborating on a series of free video lessons to address a growing information gap in the agricultural sector.
Jeff Mitchell, a UC Cooperative Extension specialist, said that as the average age of producers nears 60, there has never been a more urgent need for more young people to engage with agriculture – even if they don’t have experience.
He noted that vegetable farmers are facing an even worse labor shortage than other crop producers, given the highly specialized nature of their crops.
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The curriculum focuses on integrated weed management, plant breeding, microgreen production, soil management, labor and on-farm technology.
Sophia Marin, a Bakersfield College adjunct professor, said in her experience, teaching plant pathology and crop management benefits from showing videos of actual farm operations.
This 25-part video series was funded by the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program.
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