The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is offering California Pest Control Advisers (PCAs) a unique opportunity to earn $2,000 while contributing to the advancement of integrated pest management.

Through an updated grant program facilitated by the California Association of Pest Control Advisers (CAPCA), PCAs can participate in a one-season study by tracking pest management practices in a selected field of lettuce, alfalfa, grapes, almonds, pistachios, or tomatoes.

This initiative aims to integrate real-time data collection into the daily operations of PCAs, providing valuable insights into pest management practices across California’s agricultural landscape. Participants will utilize Crop Steward, an intuitive mobile app designed to simplify data entry, allowing them to record field observations, decision-making processes, and treatment recommendations seamlessly within their existing work schedule.To participate in the grant program, a PCA simply needs to create a free profile in Crop Steward (https://cropsteward.com/), and then to enroll one qualified farm block in this system.

In addition to field tracking, PCAs will collaborate with one of four CAPCA interns through at least one ride-along during the growing season. This mentorship component fosters knowledge sharing and strengthens professional development within the industry.

To learn more, visit CAPCA’s grant page (https://capca.com/grants).