By Blake Jackson
Small businesses and nonprofit organizations contribute significantly to Wisconsin’s local economies and communities, but many have limited access to affordable, nearby professional development opportunities that address their specific needs.
According to Deilee Calvert, Communications Manager at University of Wisconsin-Madison, Extension educators work to close that gap by developing training opportunities for farmers, educators, community leaders, care providers and other professionals.
Access to current research and proven practices can help local professionals strengthen the communities they serve.
Training and Collaboration for Nonprofits
In Brown and Kewaunee Counties, nonprofits are viewed as important contributors to economic development and the community safety net.
Patrick Nehring, professor and Community Development educator, noted that nonprofits encompass a wide range of organizations.
“People sometimes forget that nonprofits include the Humane Society, the Community Band, Friends groups, and Downtown organizations. Even the Green Bay Packers are a nonprofit organization. Our nonprofits help people in need. They also make our community a place people want to call home,” said Nehring.
Nehring helps nonprofit organizations establish themselves properly and provides ongoing professional development. “There are a lot of programs that help businesses succeed, but that same infrastructure does not exist for nonprofits,” he said.
Since 2020, he has partnered with UW-Green Bay to provide training through the Nonprofit Leader Conversations series. The program has contributed to more collaboration among agencies, joint grant applications, and reduced duplication of services.
Keeping Agronomists Informed
Wisconsin farmers depend on agronomists and farm consultants for guidance on soil, nutrients, weather, pests and other production decisions. UW Extension provides training and research updates to help these professionals offer current recommendations.
The Foundational Crop Scouting Training course covers pest identification, crop stand evaluation, and basic soil sampling.
“Knowing how to properly crop scout aids with early detection of pests and nutrient deficiency symptoms, which feeds into proven economic thresholds that promote profitable crop production,” said Josh Kamps, Regional Crops and Soils Educator.
Kamps added, “Participants learn to correctly identify what is happening in the field so they can make recommendations that balance profitable crop production with environmental stewardship for the farmers they serve.”
Seasonal webinars, weather reports, and on-farm research opportunities further help consultants stay informed about crop production, soil management, nutrients, and pests.
Supporting Childcare Professionals
UW Extension is also expanding continuing education for childcare providers. A Reilly-Baldwin Wisconsin Idea grant supported regional workshops at seven Wisconsin locations, including a virtual option.
Nearly 350 people registered, receiving more than 1,200 hours of continuing education. Additional workshops are planned for 2027, focusing on evidence-based approaches to challenging behavior in children.
Photo Credit: istock-dusanpetkovic
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Education