THE CROP PROTECTION NETWORK
Overview
The Crop Protection Network (CPN) is a multistate and international partnership of university and provincial extension specialists, and public and private professionals, that provides unbiased, research-based information. Their goal is to communicate relevant information to farmers and agricultural personnel to help with decisions related to protecting alfalfa, corn, cotton, small grains and soybean. CPN enhances the visibility and success of agricultural extension while providing important crop protection information to farmers, agribusiness and educators.
Outreach Materials
Intuitive, user-friendly website
The CPN homepage was carefully developed over several years with the expertise of third-party developers in collaboration with agriculture experts from a variety of backgrounds. Today, the site is fully supported with daily updates and maintained by an experienced team of communicators to produce a comprehensive platform that addresses the needs of various agricultural sectors.
Knowledge sharing
CPN keeps extension specialists connected internally, making collaboration and outreach easier and more streamlined. Extension specialists can utilize CPN to see the reach of their publications and research with real-time analytics or collaborate with other experts from around the country to produce new contributions with a behind-the-scenes dashboard and networking tools.
Social media
Currently maintaining a presence on every major social media platform, the CPN social media strategy has been a key pillar in the dissemination of knowledge and research content. By leveraging various platforms, including X and Instagram, we have engaged a broad audience, encouraged community interaction, and ensured timely updates on critical topics. This approach has enhanced the reach and impact of local extension specialists, fostering a well-informed and connected community.
Podcasting
CPN has developed “I See Dead Plants,” a podcast that shares the stories of people and plants, pests and pathogens, as well as the conflicts among them. Hosted by Iowa State University extension specialist Ed Zaworski, “I See Dead Plants” is a relaxing way for a broad audience to engage and stay connected with a variety of plant disease and pest management topics.
YouTube
CPN has developed several video-based initiatives to provide educational opportunities to a wide audience. These video resources range from short updates directly from extension experts in the field to comprehensive e-lectures that can be utilized for certified crop advisor continuing education credits. The CPN video library has been growing rapidly in 2024 and currently features over 150 videos reaching thousands of monthly viewers.
Yield Loss Calculator
Our advanced calculators are designed to provide crucial economic insights into estimated crop losses from diseases and insect pests. By analyzing diverse production and pest data across various user-defined factors, these tools deliver expert estimates to inform industry agronomists, researchers, extension workers, commodity groups and funding agencies.
Severity Estimation Tool
Users can access this web tool to assist with accurately assessing disease severity and defoliation in field crops. Designed for crop scouts and researchers, this tool addresses common challenges in overestimating disease impact and defoliation. Through targeted activities and assessments, users will enhance their ability to evaluate crop health with precision, improving overall effectiveness in managing crop diseases and insect pests.
CPN is funded by:
Cotton, Inc.
Grain Farmers of Ontario
Iowa State University IPM Program
National Corn Growers Association
North Central IPM Center
Southern IPM Center
United Soybean Board, Misc.
University of Kentucky
USDA Projects