Agricultural Microscopy Course

Presented by: Rion Naus, We Grow With, LLC. and Zach Wright, Living Soil Compost Lab

Tuesday, May 28 from 9am to 5pm at the Hampton Inn in Hastings, NE

NOTE: This class is being held the day before the Green Cover “Soil Is A Living System” two day workshop with Christine Jones in Bladen, NE. We highly encourage all participants to attend this workshop after the Microscopy Course – Click here for all the details on the workshop.

Hotels: The Hampton Inn in Hastings, NE is offering a group rate. Use this link to get your discounted room rate. Or call them direct  402-303-6778   The Group Code is 90A.

Description

Welcome to Agricultural Microscopy, an immersive journey into the intricate world beneath our feet, where soil health and regenerative agriculture intersect. In this class, we delve deep into the microscopic realm of soil ecosystems, understanding their vital role in fostering regenerative agricultural practices. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on microscopy techniques, students will uncover the dynamic interactions between soil microorganisms, plant roots, organic matter, and minerals. From beneficial bacteria to fungal networks, we will explore how these microscopic organisms contribute to nutrient cycling, disease suppression, and soil structure improvement.

Each student will be able to effectively utilize the Microscope in accessing the world of microbiology, moving past the basic knowledge and understanding of the components, setup, procedures, and care and maintenance of a bright field (compound) microscope. 

Audience

This course is designed for individuals wanting to increase their competency and comfortability with a microscope and how it can be applied in either a regenerative agriculture production or consulting situation.

Key Topics and Objectives

• Soil Microbial Diversity: Gain insights into the diverse communities of bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and nematodes inhabiting soil ecosystems. Understand their functions and interactions crucial for maintaining soil fertility and resilience.
• Soil Health Assessment: Learn to assess soil health using microscopy techniques, including soil aggregate analysis, microbial population counts, and visual identification of beneficial and detrimental organisms.
• Root-Microbe Interactions: Explore the symbiotic relationships between plant roots and mycorrhizal fungi, nitrogen-fixing bacteria, and other beneficial microbes. 
• Practical Applications in Regenerative Agriculture: Apply microscopy techniques to real-world scenarios in regenerative agriculture, such as assessing cover crop effectiveness, monitoring compost quality, and evaluating soil health in agroecosystems.

At the conclusion of this program, participants should be able to:

• Identify the major components of the microscope and their function
• Discuss the role of Epi-Flourecence illumination in microscopy
• Describe the process of Soil/Compost/Johnson-Su evaluation and evaluate samples brought in by participants
• Evaluate products under the microscope
• Demonstrate the ability to troubleshoot encountered problems with the microscope

Cost: $200 which can be paid via check or credit card at the beginning of the class

Participants are encouraged to bring samples and material from their own operations for qualitative assessment during the class.

To reserve your spot or for more information, please contact Rion Naus at 805-540-8651 or  info@soilcpr.com