The University of Wisconsin Plant Sciences Graduate Student Council’s Plant Workshop for Young Growers, program offers the opportunity to learn about multiple aspects of the plant sciences from rising experts in agronomy, botany, horticulture, plant breeding, plant pathology, and other related fields. This workshop is open to all kids and teenagers alike and if you happen to be a member of the BSA this workshop is structured in a manner so as to fulfill the requirements for your Plant Science Merit Badge as well.
In order for this event to fulfill the additional requirements for any BSA member in attendance who wishes to complete their Plant Science Merit badge, prior to the workshop, each attendee will receive a small homework assignment (this assignment will be optional only for any non BSA attendees). Additionally, throughout the day activities and assignments will be provided so that this workshop fulfills the requirements to earn a Plant Science Merit badge. This workshop is designed so that each attendee who comes prepared can earn the plant science merit badge in one day. A small homework assignment is required before arrival and will be e-mailed to each registrant two weeks in advance, along with instructions for how to submit it upon completion. After submission, the homework will be graded and returned to each attendee at check-in the day of the workshop. All attendees will be expected to correct missed answers before the end of the workshop.
The workshop itself will consist of one introductory lecture attended by all participants. After this, attendees will be assigned to rotation groups to visit multiple exploration stations consisting of mini-lectures followed by hands-on activities or tours of plant production facilities and gardens on the UW-Madison campus. The workshop will conclude with a panel of graduate students describing various careers in the plant sciences. Each attendee will be expected to take notes throughout the event on a worksheet provided at check-in. Only successful completion of both the homework and the worksheet will allow each attendee to be signed off on completing the merit badge.
The cost of attendance is $15.00 and covers event supplies as well as a pizza lunch for all attendees. The registration fee and must be paid via cash, check, or Venmo (@UWPSGSC) on or before the event. For additional event information and registration please see the flyer found below. The registration form can be accessed directly at the link here. Information about the exact location and parking information will be provided after registration closes. If you have any questions, please contact us at psgsc@rso.wisc.edu