BRTC Agriculture Hosts Guest Speakers

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Irrigation Instructor for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NCRS) Mike Hamilton speaks to BRTC Agriculture Technology Class

The Black River Technical College (BRTC) Agriculture Department recently hosted three guest speakers on the BRTC Paragould campus: Irrigation Instructor for the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture Cooperative Extension Service and Natural Resources Conservation Service (NCRS) Mike Hamilton, Irrigation Specialist for NRCS Will Young, and Intern for NRCS Alex Woods on the BRTC Paragould campus.

The speakers gave a highly informative and interactive presentation on the integration of technology in irrigation to BRTC’s Agriculture Technology class.

Hamilton highlighted the importance of integrating technology in irrigation to increase productivity and improve efficiency in farming practices. He spoke about the significance of utilizing drones for crop monitoring and mapping, soil moisture sensors to accurately measure soil moisture levels, Pipe Planner to design and optimize irrigation systems, and irrigation automation to control water usage and reduce water waste.

Young discussed the challenges he faces while introducing new technologies to farms and how he overcomes them. He emphasized the importance of staying up to date with the latest technological advancements in irrigation and also highlighted the various job opportunities and avenues for advancement available at NRCS.

Woods shared his journey and what inspired him to pursue a career in plant and soil sciences. He shared his experiences of interning at NRCS.

“The students were very enthusiastic and engaged during the presentation, asking many questions and seeking clarification on several topics,” said BRTC agriculture Instructor Ronnie Hinson. “They were particularly interested in learning more about the use of technology in farming and how they could apply it to their own farms. It was wonderful to see how interested students are in the ag employment opportunities outside of farming.”

For more information about the BRTC agriculture program, contact the Agriculture Instructor Ronnie Hinson at (870) 248-4032 or ronnie.hinson@blackrivertech.edu.