Agricultural Conservation Technical “Boot Camp” Training Basic 2026
The training provides an overview of a variety of technical topics related to ag conservation professions. Material covered includes basic surveying skills, construction materials, soils identification, pasture management, conservation in crop ground, hydrology, and resource concern identification. A foundational overview is covered for topics, and the material is applicable to a variety of conservation careers within agriculture. Not all topics will specifically apply to one employee’s current position. Take advantage of this free training opportunity, which includes both classroom learning and experience in the field! Four days will be in-person, and three will be virtual.
Dates
Virtual Training:
March 19, March 26, April 20
In-person Training:
April 13, 2026 at 09:30 a.m. – April 16, 2026 at 04:30 p.m. at the Union County Government Center, 155 N 15th St, Lewisburg, PA 17837.
Both in-person and all virtual training sessions are required to complete the course.
TARGET AUDIENCE
Appropriate for Agricultural Conservation Technicians, NRCS field staff, Nutrient Management Technicians, Chesapeake Bay Technicians, and others in agricultural positions with less than 1 year of professional experience, or less than 3 years experience if employee did not attend a previously held Level I ACT training.
Employees who have been in their positions over 12 months will be prioritized. Brand new hires are encouraged to obtain work experience prior to applying. Existing NRCS and conservation district staff with agriculture-focused positions who are interested in becoming certified planners will get priority for the 30 seats available. Others will be considered as space is available. Existing NRCS and conservation district staff with agriculture-focused positions will get priority for the 30 seats available. Others will be considered as space is available.
If you do not receive confirmation from PACD, you will not be admitted. No walk-ins will be accepted. If you do not receive an email from PACD by February 9, please email swehinger@pacd.org.
COURSE CONTENT
- Synopsis for Main Course Topics
- Agenda to be provided
FEES
Participant registration fees are waived. Funding is provided through a Special Leadership Development Project Grant, sponsored by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and State Conservation Commission.
LODGING
An overnight room block will be available. Information will be provided to those accepted into the course.
Reimbursement policy (conservation districts only):PACD will reimburse the conservation district (up to $140/person/night) AS FUNDING ALLOWS for the lodging of those whose office is more than 45 miles away from the Union County Government Center. Monday through Wednesday evenings only. Please note: there may not be sufficient funding to fund all three nights for every district employee.
Meals
Lunch will be provided. Breakfast and dinner will not be provided. Please plan to bring your own refillable water bottle and coffee mug.
The deadline to apply was January 30, 2026.
Sponsored by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, State Conservation Commission, Penn State Extension, and the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, Inc.