Fostering Pesticide Responsibility in Communities Through Youth Engagement

Project Overview

YENC26-250
Project Type: Youth Educator
Funds awarded in 2026: $5,999.00
Projected End Date: 04/15/2028
Grant Recipient: Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, 1259 Stange Rd, Ames, IA 50011
Region: North Central
State: Iowa
Project Manager:
Maya Hayslett
Email
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, 1259 Stange Rd, Ames, IA 50011
Project Co-Managers:
Amy Arndorfer
Email
Iowa State University of Science and Technology

Commodities

No commodities identified

Practices

No practices identified

Proposal abstract:

This project builds lasting habits to protect natural resources and promote regenerative practices through youth programs that foster awareness of safe agricultural chemical use. While ag safety programs for youth are common in Iowa, they lack hands-on activities to build awareness of environmental and human health risks related to improper pesticide use. Developed by Iowa State University extension staff, a state agronomist, and a pesticide safety specialist, engaging lessons cover why pesticides are used and how integrated pest management reduces negative impacts. Trained educators will deliver programs through partnerships with Iowa 4-H, FFA, and Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa.

Project objectives from proposal:

  1. Improve youth awareness of actions impacting ecological systems through case studies and in-field activities that foster accountability and critical thinking.

  2. Use simulation and modeling activities to increase youth knowledge of integrated pest management (IPM) practices in agriculture that reduce risks to human health and maintain economic viability.

  3. Encourage career interest in regenerative agriculture and IPM by showcasing interviews with professionals in research, production, and outreach.

  4. Equip youth educators with lesson plans and supply kits for initial programming, while providing online resources for sustained curriculum delivery.

  5. Share the program outcomes with stakeholders, including presentations for youth organizations and farmers.

Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in this publication are those of the author(s) and should not be construed to represent any official USDA or U.S. Government determination or policy.