University of Idaho Agricultural Education, Leadership, and Communications

University of Idaho Student Heads Back to Iowa  By: Sam Hoffman It was mid-June and the registration for the New Century Farmer Alumni Conference application came out. I was adamant with my father about going back. In 2014, I learned farm progression strategies, markets, soybeans, and corn!  Having gone to the conference in 2014, made me appreciate growing up on a farm and being a  fourth generation agriculturist.  When applying, I can remember being so excited. I filled out the application on my phone! Not long after, I got the email that informed me I was going back to Iowa. Although, after the initial excitement wore off, I started to second guess myself. Taking the time off work, and leaving my father to prepare for harvest alone was not ideal. Yet, as I prepared for my flight, I had doubts as to whether I should actually be going . . . However, those doubts quickly disappeared, after a few minutes of sitting in the DuPont Pioneer center with my fellow alumni.

New Century Farmer 2015 This past week three young ladies from our department had the opportunity to attend the 2015 New Century Farmer program. This years week long conference took place in Des Moines, Iowa. Where 50 of the brightest raising stars in production agriculture, came together to partake in a once and lifetime educational opportunity. Over the course, of the week they were engaged by speakers from every part of the industry, as well as, being from all over the country.  In addition, to hearing speeches on the issues facing the industry, they were able to tour industry facilities that are helping american famers combat many of the issues they face today. At DuPont Pioneer, participants were shown the progression of corn, and the various research projects underway in developing drought, pest, and fungal resistant corn. At Case IH, the class was shown the advancements being made in precision agriculture, and how soil compaction can effort the wear of equipment, an

July Building Update The department building remodel is finally underway, and will continue into September. Construction on both entrances, has began. Both entry ways will be redesigned and rebuilt. The exterior on the west (near the parking lot) is being resided, and the entire building will be coated with a fresh coat of paint and new trim.  We would like to remind students, staff offices are open at normal business hours. Come on by and say a hello! Can't wait to see you all next fall.