Tips for leading teams, Nutrient Management Training information and more! Training news from BWSR

Train Tracks NEW


In this issue:


Two Minute Training

Two Minute Training Navigating a Functional Team

Navigating a Functional Team

A functional team doesn’t just happen and Patrick Lencioni has written a book entitled “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team.” This article will share the five dysfunctions and a tip to address each dysfunction.

Dysfunction #1: Absence of Trust

Tip: Create a safe place to interact and be transparent with process and decisions.

Dysfunction #2: Fear of Conflict 

Tip: Recognize the value of differing perspectives and encourage respectful sharing of differing perspectives. Use effective techniques for managing conflict.

Dysfunction #3: Lack of Commitment

Tip: Develop shared meaning and goals to ensure everyone is on the same page.

Dysfunction #4: Avoidance of Accountability

Tip: Develop clearly defined tasks, roles and timelines that are shared with all.

Dysfunction #5: Inattention to Results

Tip: Develop collective success by articulating the objective(s) of the work and  milestones. Check in on and report about progress in reference to the objective(s).


Training Success Story

With 430 individuals attending 2019 BWSR Academy over the course of the three days, many have commented that this Academy was “the best” Academy they have attended. When asked what made this the best Academy for them, it was shared it was the selection of sessions offered this year.

 

The selection of sessions starts with attendees completing their Academy evaluation and making suggestions for the upcoming Academy and, also, completing the survey for sessions that is sent out in early February. An 18-member Program Team then works on reviewing and identifying sessions AND line up the trainers for the sessions. It truly is a team effort! Thank you all for your input in session suggestions and the Program Team for doing the “heavy lifting” in contributing to the success of BWSR Academy.


Technical Training & Certification Program Updates

TTCP logo condensed


Introductory Nutrient Management Courses planned for multiple locations


The Technical Training and Certification Program (TTCP) will be offering Introductory Nutrient Management courses at five different locations over the next few months. The trainings are a full day introductory level nutrient management course with lead trainers from U of M Extension specializing in nutrient management.

 

This training will cover:

  • Soil Testing - concepts and lab procedures, correlations to crop response
  • Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulfur and micronutrients – research, crop needs, fertilizer recommendations, BMPs
  • Fertilizer formulations and U of M fertilizer recommendations for crops and grass seedings
  • Related NRCS practice specifications and policy requirements

 

Dates/Locations/Registration Information


Dec 3, 2019  Oronoco

Dec 5, 2019 Morris

February 5, 2020  Lamberton

February 13, 2020  Detroit Lakes

February 14, 2020  Mora


Related Partner Training

November

December

2020

January

February


Online Learning and Training

Not all training takes place in a classroom. We’ve put together a searchable library of recorded modules, webinars, videos and other resources to help our staff and partners find professional development information on a variety of topics.

 

  • Ecological Site Descriptions: An Interdisciplinary and Interagency Effort - A series of 8 webinars discussing what Ecological Site Descriptions are and how they are developed. https://bwsr.state.mn.us/online-learning
  • How to Use Haney Tests – The Haney test tries to assess biological activity in your soil. The results include many different metrics representing microbial activity and food sources. Dr. Anna Cates, state soil health specialist, will guide you through how the various measurements are done and how to interpret your results.  Liz Stahl, Extension Educator in Crops, will discuss U of MN research comparing results of the Haney Test to standard soil testing procedures, and the implications if one were to use the Haney test in determining fertilizer needs. https://bwsr.state.mn.us/online-learning
  • “Field Work” Podcast Hosted by two commercial row-crop farmers, Field Work is a podcast that provides space for frank, realistic discussions about the benefits and challenges of sustainable agriculture. Hosts Zach Johnson and Mitchell Hora explore the successes and challenges farmers experience as they adopt new practices, without greenwashing over the difficulties.”  https://www.fieldworktalk.org/
  • Cattle Grazing on Cover Crops in Northern Minnesota: Producer Thor Didrikson discusses the benefits and challenges of grazing their large herd of cattle on cover crops on their farm in Roseau County, Minnesota. Videography by Dan Balluff Link to video
  • Profiles in Partnering - Great Plains: Public-Private Partnerships in Kansas and South Dakota strive to sustain rural landscapes for people and nature. Featuring ranchers Bill Sproul (KS) and Jim Faulstich (SD) along with their conservation partners in their own words. Link to video
  • PrairiePod: MN DNR staff are conducting a podcast where they talk informally about various prairie-related topics. Link to podcast
  • The Pasture Project: a movement of farmers and farmland supporters helping land managers reintegrate livestock rotation in the heart of Upper Midwest farming. Webinar recordings link (scroll down past events to get to the webinars)

 

You can visit BWSR's Online Learning page to find web-based technical training resources sorted by category.


Program Contacts

Jenny Gieseke   Barbara Radke
Organizational Effectiveness Manager   Training Coordinator
(507) 381-3131   (507) 844-0442
jenny.gieseke@state.mn.us   barbara.radke@state.mn.us