​A Fresh Start: Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation in High Tunnel Systems,
with Francesco Di Gioia, Penn State University
Part 1 (Intro): Tues. April 2, 2019, 9:00 AM EDT
Part 2 (Advanced): Tues. April 9, 2019, 9:00 AM EDT

Francesco Di Gioia, Ph. D., Assistant Professor of Vegetable Crop Science at Penn State University will discuss anaerobic soil disinfestation (ASD) and how it can be used within high tunnel systems to control soilborne bacteria, fungi, plant-parasitic nematodes, and weeds, as well as to enhance soil fertility. The topic will be covered across two sessions, the first providing an introduction to the technique, its development, the principles of how it works, and how it can be applied. The second will go into greater detail about application, quality of inputs required during the process, as well as how to identify sources for required inputs. Both sessions will feature examples of the practice as applied before planting and during tomato crop production.
Both webinars will include time for participant questions, which may be submitted in advance or during the sessions. 

There is no cost to participate but registration for the live webinars is required. 

​High Tunnel Cover Crops, featuring Steve Groff, Cedar Meadow Farm
Tues., March 26, 2019; 9:00 AM EDT

​Steve Groff, owner of Cedar Meadow Farm in Lancaster County, PA, is well-known for his work in cover crop research and no-till production practices. He applies his knowledge both in-field for grain and vegetable crops, but also under cover in the multi-bay style Haygrove high tunnels he uses to grow heirloom tomatoes. Implementing a no-till cover crop system in the high tunnel helps maintain soil structure and microbial life while reducing pest pressure and possible nutrient loss.

During this webinar, Steve will share about the system, including the timing of cover crop planting, seed mix used, and cover crop termination. In addition, the webinar will feature recommendations for farmers interested in using cover crops as a complement with season extension technology. The webinar will include time for participant questions, which may be submitted in advance or during the webinar. 

There is no cost to participate but registration for the live webinar is required. 

This webinar is funded by the USDA-NRCS. The USDA-NRCS has financial assistance available for the purchase and installation of high tunnels for eligible applicants. For more information about NRCS financial and technical assistance, contact your local NRCS office - https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/contact/

Plastics, They Make a Difference in Your High Tunnel 
Tues. April 16, 2019; 9:00 AM EDT
Kathy Demchak, Senior Extension Associate with Penn State, will share details about her research studying impacts of various cover plastics on pest management (specifically Japanese beetles) and crop yields in raspberry production, as well as how this may be applied to strawberry production and other crops. The webinar will also focus on light transmission issues experienced during late and early season production, recommendations for adjustments if issues are experienced, details to consider before purchasing a new plastic cover, and discussion about plastics durability in tunnel structures. The webinar will include time for participant questions, which may be submitted in advance or during the webinar. 

There is no cost to participate but registration for the live webinar is required.