Contact: Mark Aydelotte, UC Center - Fresno, (209) 225-5611, mark.aydelotte@ucop.edu

Class on Better Farming Using Geotechnology Coming to Fresno's UC Center This Fall

The use of computer programs, satellites, and other "geotechnologies" to cut costs and increase agricultural productivity is the topic of a two-day seminar November 5 and 6 at the University of California Center in Fresno.

"Precision Agriculture Using Geotechnologies" is designed for persons involved in farming and ranching operations of all sizes and types, including field crops, citrus and range cattle operations. Little or no knowledge or experience in geotechnologies is necessary to take the class.

The seminar introduces the agricultural uses of geotechnologies such as Global Positioning Systems, remote sensing and imagery, variable rate technology, remote telemetry, and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These technologies make it possible to link information from various sources for a known location, and provide the user with a graphical visualization of the data.

Used together, geotechnologies can significantly reduce costs, improve productivity and reduce the potential for environmental and crop damage, according to course instructors. Donald A. Gordon, Senior GIS Analyst with VESTRA Resources of Redding and an expert in integrating geotechnologies into agriculture, will lead the seminar.

"Precision Agriculture" is offered by the University of California, Riverside Extension, as part of UC's effort to provide courses from its campuses to residents of the San Joaquin Valley. The Fresno center is located at 550 E. Shaw Avenue, Fresno. Fee for the course is $275.

To enroll, call (909) 787-4105 or toll free at (800) 442-4990. For more information on the seminar, call Jennifer Campbell at (909) 787-5804, x1620, or e-mail sciences@ucx.ucr.edu. For information on the UC Center, call (209) 241-7120, or e-mail Claudia Martinez: claudia.martinez@ucop.edu.

Jeannette Warnert
Public Information Representative
Ag and Natural Resources
UC Center
550 E. Shaw Avenue
Fresno, CA 93710