Do you know a teen who loves learning about crops? Perhaps she is considering a career involving crops, insects, diseases, soils, or water or perhaps he wants to figure out how to feed the world's growing population in a sustainable way?

If so, consider recommending to the sixth Innovative Youth Corn Challenge, sponsored by Nebraska Extension and the Nebraska Corn Board. This contest, open to 4-H members (ages 10 and older as of January 1) or FFA members (in-school members), guides participants through all aspects of corn production, as well as agricultural careers related to corn production.

As a team of two or more participants, youth will be challenged to implement a production practice different than normal to determine if the change would increase yield. Economics and sustainability of the practice also will be considered. Yields, cropping history, and production information will be collected in the Corn Yield Challenge management summary.

Cash prizes and plaques will be given to the first, second, and third place teams. First place will receive $1,000, second place will receive $500, and third place will receive $250. Sustainability, crop scouting, and “extra mile” awards also will be given, each worth $200.

To participate in 2019, youth must complete and return an entry form by March 15 to the Fillmore County Extension Office, 1340 G St., in Geneva, Nebr. Forms can be downloaded at cropwatch.unl.edu/youth/activities. For more information, contact Brandy at brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu or 402-759-3712.

Find more information about previous challenges and related activities in the Youth section of CropWatch.