UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Professionals working in agricultural conservation can pursue professional development opportunities by attending the “ACAP Ag Conservation Con,” to be held Sept. 15-17 at the Kovalchick Convention and Athletic Complex, 711 Pratt Drive, Indiana.
Event organizers anticipate more than 200 conservation professionals from around the state will attend the third annual conference. The event offers opportunities to strengthen skills, expand knowledge and support a more effective agricultural conservation workforce.
The Center for Agricultural Conservation Assistance Training, administered by Penn State Extension, and the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission will host the event.
This conference is designed for conservation district employees, agricultural conservation professionals, and anyone associated with the Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program or other conservation financial assistance programs.
“This year’s conference brings together agricultural conservation professionals at every career stage to build skills and strengthen their impact,” said Jennifer Fetter, director of the center and Penn State Extension water resources program team leader. “With a mix of hands-on and classroom sessions, participants, from students and new staff to seasoned professionals and program leaders, will gain practical tools to advance conservation efforts.”
During the event, participants can:
— Stay up-to-date on ACAP program updates, financial management procedures, policy changes and conservation funding opportunities.
— Build confidence in using conservation planning tools, mapping systems, manure management resources and field-based decision-making techniques.
— Explore innovative, research-based approaches to buffers, runoff management, silvopasture, composting and agricultural water quality protection.
— Gain communication, mentoring and stress management skills to better support farmers, conservation professionals, and workplace teams.
— Strengthen understanding of agricultural conservation engineering, project management, surveying and construction oversight.
This conference is supported by the ACAP and emphasizes its role, but it is open to program staff and administrators as well as others. Conference organizers welcome all conservation professionals, partners, and students committed to promoting agricultural conservation practices, encouraging collaboration, and supporting sustainable, economically viable agriculture.
Organizers emphasized that achieving agricultural conservation success in Pennsylvania relies on a community-driven effort.
Various event sponsorships are available, which include conference registrations, recognition in the banquet program, exhibit tables and other benefits.
A discounted early registration fee of $115 is available through July 17. After July 17, the registration fee will be $125. Attendees must register by Aug. 16.
More information is available on the Penn State Extension website.
The Agriculture Conservation Assistance Program is a program of the Pennsylvania State Conservation Commission.