Are you seeking an engaging agricultural project for your youth club? Looking to unite your members through a hands-on learning experience? Nebraska Extension invites junior high and high school students to participate in the 12th annual Crop Scouting Competition, a dynamic event designed to immerse youth in the principles of crop scouting and integrated pest management (IPM).
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, Aug. 5, 2025, when teams will gather at the Eastern Nebraska Research, Extension and Education Center (ENREEC) near Mead, Nebraska to compete for cash prizes, bragging rights and a shot at the Nebraska state title.
This year’s Crop Scouting Competition will feature a combination of indoor and outdoor activities focused on corn and soybean production. Participants will engage in hands-on field scouting, identifying crop growth stages, pest infestations, diseases and nutrient deficiencies. Additional topics also include pesticide safety, herbicide injury, and the use of emerging crop scouting technologies.
Not familiar with crop scouting? That’s OK!
Youth don’t need prior experience in crop production to compete, but they will need a basic understanding of scouting corn and soybean fields. Nebraska Extension offers a variety of resources to help all students get up to speed. Visit the CropWatch Youth Crop Scouting Competition page and explore the “Preparing to Compete” section for training tools and guidance.
Teachers and leaders — Invite a local agronomist, extension educator or crop consultant to provide short lessons or Q&A sessions during club meetings. A little expert input can boost students’ knowledge and confidence — and it’s a great way to inspire interest in agronomy and crop-related careers.
This competition offers a unique opportunity for youth to gain practical experience in crop scouting, enhance their understanding of IPM, and explore potential careers in agriculture. By working closely with extension staff and industry professionals, participants will develop valuable skills applicable to various agricultural fields.
Competition Highlights:
- Team Composition: Teams of three to five participants, each with an adult team leader, such as an FFA advisor, crop consultant, extension staff or co-op employee.
- Eligibility: Open to 4-H and FFA members who have completed fifth through 12th grades
- Prizes: Cash awards of $500 for first place, $250 for second place, and $100 for third place
- Advancement: The top two teams will qualify for the regional competition held in Iowa in 2025.
This competition is limited to the first 10 teams that sign up. Teams must be registered by July 15.
For more information, please visit the CropWatch Youth Crop Scouting Competition page.
The 2025 Youth Crop Scouting Competition is proudly sponsored by the Nebraska Independent Crop Consultant Association, Ward Laboratories, the Nebraska Soybean Board and Nebraska Extension.
