The University of Kentucky is excited to announce the 2024 Crop Scouting Competition, a creative and educational contest designed for high school students interested in agriculture. This half-day event occurs July 25 at the UK Research and Education Center at Princeton, part of the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment. 

Teams of four to six high school students are invited to showcase their expertise in crop agronomics, pest identification and various aspects of crop production. This outdoor, hands-on event offers students the chance to tackle real-world challenges in crop scouting. 

“This competition provides students with a unique, hands-on learning experience focused on pest management and gives them an opportunity to answer real-world questions about agricultural production," said Kiersten Wise, extension professor and plant pathology extension specialist. 

The Crop Scouting Competition is more than just a contest; it is an educational experience allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.  

Teams will compete for the top three spots, with cash prizes of up to $500. The winner of each state's crop scouting competition will secure a spot in the regional competition, where they will compete against champions from other states. 

Competition slots are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. Adult leaders interested in their teams’ participation are asked to register early. After reaching the maximum number of team slots, any additional teams will be placed on a waiting list. 

To register, visit https://bit.ly/43ggERe. Registration is open until April 5. 

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The Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment is an Equal Opportunity Organization with respect to education and employment and authorization to provide research, education information and other services only to individuals and institutions that function without regard to economic or social status and will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, creed, religion, political belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, marital status, genetic information, age, veteran status, physical or mental disability or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity.