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IAEF Hosts 2009 Faculty Academy

FALLS CHURCH, VA. (July 8, 2009) - College and university instructors from across the United States participated in the IA Education Foundation’s Faculty Academy, June 24-25, in Omaha, Neb. The two-day intensive session provided in-class and in-field instruction in irrigation concepts and best practices, while providing a forum to network with their peers.
 
The Academy, in its seventh year, is a "must attend" session for instructors who understand the growing industry demand for irrigation-trained students. Topics included types of agricultural sprinklers, calculating precipitation rates, an overview of drip/micro for landscapes, the use of two-wire systems and an in-depth discussion about sprinkler uniformity and efficiency. The event also included a tour of IA-member Lindsay’s state of the art center pivot installation (Omaha, Neb.), as well as a tour of Oak Hills Country Club golf course. The attendees also took part in a roundtable luncheon which allowed the opportunity to network with other teaching professionals.
 
Dr. Cathie Lavis of Kansas State University gave a seminar on the second day of the event where she shared how she has made irrigation an experiential learning opportunity for her students.
 
"One of the best parts of the Academy is allowing instructors to share experiences and discuss how the foundation can help them in their various programs," said Brent Mecham, IA’s industry development director.

 
About the Irrigation Foundation
Created by the Irrigation Association, the Irrigation Foundation aims to be the recognized authority on irrigation education. Established more than two decades ago with the simple goal of granting scholarships to students, the Foundation was re-launched in 2005. Its new mission is to advance the irrigation industry using education that both attracts people into the profession and ensures ongoing professional success. The Foundation promotes education, career awareness and career recruitment through programs for both students and industry professionals.