Series of Cooperative Extension classes teach sustainable horticulture to local professionals
RENO, Nev. – University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, in collaboration with the Nevada Department of Agriculture, will offer a series of eight classes for those in the green industry beginning Jan. 29. The program benefits people wanting to enter the industry, beginners in the industry and established industry professionals.
Heidi Kratsch, Cooperative Extension horticulture specialist, said landscapers, nursery workers, groundskeepers and others in the green industry who attend the classes will learn science-based, sustainable horticulture practices to help them manage plants and landscapes efficiently and safely.
“This training provides the most up-to-date and scientifically accurate information available,” said Kratsch.
The trainings will be held 9 a.m. to noon on Tuesdays and Thursdays, Jan. 29- Feb. 26, with an optional, no-cost exam day on Feb. 26. Classes are taught by Cooperative Extension and Nevada Department of Agriculture staff and industry professionals, and are held at the Washoe County Cooperative Extension office in Reno at 4955 Energy Way. Classes will also be available through interactive video at the Carson City Cooperative Extension office, 3621 Northgate Lane, Suite 12. Class topics include:
- Jan. 29: Plant Disease Basics
- Jan. 31: Noxious Weeds and Weed Law
- Feb. 5: Soil, Potting Mixes and Fertilizers
- Feb. 7: Pruning Landscape Plants
- Feb. 12: Insect Identification
- Feb. 14: Sustainable Turfgrass Management
- Feb. 19: IPM Basics and Pesticide Safety
- Feb. 21: Applying IPM Principles
- Feb. 26: Green Industry Training Exam (optional)
Classes are $15 each or $80 for all eight for both Washoe and Carson attendees. Further discounts are available to organizations enrolling multiple employees. Fees include course materials, certificates of attendance, refreshments and International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) and Pesticide Continuing Education Units (CEUs). Course fees also support the Green Industry Continuing Education Series, which is held year-round as needed.
Register online at the Green Industry Training website, http://www.growyourownnevada.com/horticulture-programs/green-industry-training/. For participants in Carson City, register by contacting the Carson City Cooperative Extension office at 775-887-2252. For more information on classes or certification, contact Jenn Fisher at 775-336-0249 or fisherj@unce.unr.edu. Persons in need of special accommodations or assistance should call at least three days prior to the class they intend to attend.