November 9, 2012

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension and the Nebraska Corn Board have teamed up to offer the first Innovative Youth Corn Challenge. This contest challenged 4-H and FFA members to create an innovative, economical means for increasing corn yields. Youths worked together in teams to implement production practices different than normal to determine if they increased yield. Participants recorded cropping history, production information, and yields. 

The six teams who completed proposals and projects in this pilot year were the Super Strong H’s 4-H Club from Polk County, Humphrey FFA, Wrangler’s 4-H Club from Platte County, Fillmore Central FFA, David City FFA, and the Pioneers 4-H Club from Madison County.

Cash prizes and plaques will be awarded to the first, second, and third place teams at a banquet December 5 on the UNL East Campus.

Youth interested in participating next year should check the CropWatch.unl.edu/youth/ website. For more information, contact Brandy VanDeWalle at brandy.vandewalle@unl.edu or Aaron Nygren at anygren2@unl.edu.

Brandy VanDeWalle
Extension Educator, Fillmore County