Something New Is Taking Shape: The Ag Conservation Keystone Training Series

Big things are happening in ag conservation training.

We, at the Center for Ag Conservation Assistance Training (CACAT), are excited to unveil a refreshed Ag Conservation Keystone Training Series — a newly revamped lineup of trainings designed to better support today’s conservation professionals — from those just entering the field to seasoned staff looking to strengthen technical knowledge and program coordination skills.

This revamped series now features three focused trainings, each designed to build confidence, practical skills, and stronger connections across Pennsylvania’s agricultural conservation community.

The Three Core Trainings

• Essential Skills for New Ag Conservation Employees (coming in February 2027)
  A welcoming, hands-on training built for new staff across conservation districts, partner organizations, and consultants. Topics include communication, farm terminology, biosecurity, safety, and foundational planning tools.
• Keystones of Ag Best Management Practices (coming June 3-4, 2026)
  A two-day, in-person training focused on identifying on-farm resource concerns and matching them with effective BMP solutions.
• Fundamentals of ACAP Coordination (coming in October 2026)
  A practical training designed to help ACAP staff navigate everything from eligibility and applications to construction, certification, and project management.

Coming Up First: Keystones of Ag Best Management Practices

We are especially excited to highlight this year's Keystones of Ag Best Management Practices, taking place June 3–4 in State College at the Hilton Garden Inn State College.

This two-day experience combines classroom learning with real-world field application. Day one will focus on resource concerns, aerial image surveying, digital tools, and BMP overviews, while day two takes participants to the farm for hands-on practice and site visit experience.

Whether you're new to ag conservation or looking to sharpen your field identification skills, this training is designed to provide practical tools you can put to work right away.  Register online.