LINCOLN, Neb. – The Precision Application Technology (PAT) Lab at the West Central Research, Extension and Education Center in North Platte is conducting the Precision Education in Spray Technologies (PEST) Academy through the spring. The PEST Academy is a research-based and hands-on training program designed to equip individuals with the technical knowledge and operational skills needed for optimized, sustainable and data-driven pest management.
The academy, supported by the Nebraska Corn Board, aims to bridge science-based learning with practical, real-world demonstrations to strengthen decision-making, ensure regulatory compliance and enhance the long-term sustainability of crop protection programs.
“The PEST Academy empowers agricultural professionals to make data-driven, efficient, and environmentally responsible decisions that support sustainable crop production and long-term stewardship across Nebraska and beyond,” said Milos Zaric, a precision pesticide application specialist in the PAT Lab.
Private and custom applicators, crop consultants and industry professionals will gain more than 16 hours of professional instruction through the academy. Learning opportunities offered include:
- Guidance on label interpretation
- Hands-on spray training
- Enhanced understanding of spray additives
- Data-driven tools and evaluations
Participants will receive materials, including the 2026 Nebraska Guide for Weed Disease and Insect Management, updated Nozzle Manufacturer Catalogs, and handouts on regulatory updates.
Upon completing the academy, participants will have the opportunity to earn a University of Nebraska–Lincoln micro-credential and Nebraska Department of Agriculture recertification credits in categories 00 and 01.
Registration is free, but each session is limited to a maximum of 35 participants. The PEST Academy sessions will be held on the following dates:
- February 11, 2026
- March 11, 2026
- April 8, 2026
Additionally, custom training can be scheduled with a minimum of 15 attendees, scheduled to fit the participants’ and PEST Academy schedules.
To learn more about the PEST Academy and how to register, visit go.unl.edu/pestacademy.
