Podcasting is an underutilized extension format, and little information exists as to its efficacy as a teaching tool. One extension podcast is Growing the Valley (GtV), which focuses on tree fruit and nut production in California’s Central Valley. Topics cover research updates, best management practices, and discussions of current events. Irrigation and nitrogen management episodes were made available for an online, on-demand continuing education credits for a certification program in California focused on reducing nitrogen losses from agricultural fields. A optional short survey was embedded in the credit program to gauge user’s knowledge of topics discussed in the episodes before and after listening. Results indicate that GtV listeners showed significant gains in knowledge, suggesting that this format is an effective educational tool for extension personnel.
