An Online Interactive Application for Soil Test Interpretation in Alaska
Extension Education
Casey Matney
Agriculture & Horticulture Agent
Soldotna
Abstract
An online interactive soil test interpretation application was created for the University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service (CES) website in 2018. This application offers the option to have user soil tests interpreted by a CES agent or to complete their own interpretation online. Interpretations can be customized for standard crop/gardens, tree and shrubs, or peony production. A survey launched in 2018/2019 showed that 58 individuals submitted soil tests via this route of delivery for interpretation by an agent, and they completed a brief online survey. Growers/farmers that participated ranged in geographic area from Glenallen in the north all the way to Juneau in the south. Among all 58 participants, 48 identified whether or not they preferred to use organic or conventional fertilizer. Of those responding, 69% of growers prefer to use organic amendments, while only 29% prefer conventional fertilizers. One respondent indicated that they use both organic and conventional fertilizers. Approximately 65% of respondents had never received a soil test interpretation before, while 35% of respondents had previously received CES recommendations. Further results and description of the online application will be presented.
Poster has NOT been presented at any previous NACAA AM/PIC
This poster is being submitted only for display at AM/PIC. Poster is not to be judged, but the abstract will be published in the proceedings.
A poster file has not been provided
Authors: Casey Matney
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Matney, C. Agriculture & Horticulture Agent, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Alaska, 99669