Horticulture Growers Short Course

Thursday Morning January 30, 2014
TerraLink Room
Raspberries/Strawberries
Chair: Tom Baumann, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
Sponsor: Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement
Assoc.
9:00 - 9:25
New Pesticide Registrations for Raspberries and
Strawberries
Caroline Bedard, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
An update of new products for 2014 and a peek at what is
coming down the pike.
9:25-9:45
Verticillium – Is it a Problem in Raspberries?
Jerry Weiland, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, OR
There are many potential causes of dieback and decline in
raspberries. Here is another potential concern for growers.
9:45-10:25
Innovative Raspberry and Strawberry Production in
Quebec
Rejean Demers, Les Productions Horticoles Demers Inc.,
Saint-Nicolas, QC
Learn how this Quebec farm is improving season-long
productivity of fresh raspberries and strawberries using
various novel techniques.
10:25-10:40 Refreshment Break
10:40-11:00
Raspberry and Strawberry Weed Control – New
Potential Products
Tim Miller, WSU, Mt. Vernon, WA
Tim continues to carry-out trials to evaluate new herbicides
for use on berries.
11:00-12:10
Developments in Raspberry and Strawberry Genetics
and Varieties
Michael Dossett, PARC, Agassiz, BC
Chad Finn, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, OR
Pat Moore, WSU, Puyullap, WA
Tom Baumann, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
An update on the status of the BC breeding program and a
look at available new varieties and interesting material in
the pipeline.
Re-certification Credits: 1.0 FCC Loft
Agroforestry/Alternate Crops
Chair: Dave Trotter, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Agroforestry in BC focuses on complementing current
on-farm management with alternate crops and practices;
diversifying cash-flow and labour; providing supplemental
income; and enhancing long-term sustainability.
9:00-9:30
Agroforestry Initiative – Demonstration Projects and
Resources Available
George Powell, Agroforestry Industry Development
Initiative, Quesnel, BC
Hghlights of the demonstrations and resources available to
producers.
9:30-10:00
Alley Cropping with Black Walnut and Pawpaw
Brenda Dureault, Curly Frog Farm, Kelowna, BC
An overview of lessons learned in
establishing black walnut and pawpaw trees in an alley
cropping system on a small lot farm.
10:00-10:15 Refreshment Break
BASF Gallery
Potatoes
Chair: Leisa Yee, BC Potato and Vegetable Growers
Sponsor: BC Potato & Vegetable Growers Assoc.
8:50-9:20
Potato Pest Research in BC – National in Scope
Bob Vernon, AAFC, Agassiz, BC
Marjolaine Dessureault, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Wireworm and PVY are a sampling of new and nationally
funded potato research projects to be launched in 2014.
9:20-9:45
In Search of a Quality Potato – It Starts Before Planting
Kiara Jack, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
The time to think about prevention of bruising starts long
before harvest. Bruise damage occurs along the life of the
potato - how to mitigate, from before planting right through
to storage.
9:45-10:05
Thrips Management – Developing a Threshold for Control
Wim van Herk, AAFC, Agassiz, BC
Thrips are tricky to monitor for and their effect on potato
crops is poorly understood. Work is being done to better
understand thrips movements in fields, and attempts to
develop control thresholds for this foliar pest.
10:05-10:15 Refreshment Break
10:15-11:00
Only Plant Pathologists Appreciate Scurfy Potatoes
Lynn Woodell, University of Idaho, Kimberley, ID
The fresh market industry in BC is always on the lookout
for information to improve management of post-harvest
disorders in potatoes such as silver scurf. Current disease
research from Idaho and storage management tips improve
the bottom line.
11:00-11:30
Growing Potatoes and Leaving the Weeds In the Dust
Pam Hutchinson, University of Idaho, Aberdeen, ID
With the risk of control tools disappearing, management
and control options for broadleaf weeds are a concern to
the industry. New research from Idaho has helpful weed
management options.
11:30-noon
Targeting the Weeds and Not the Crop
Pam Hutchinson, University of Idaho, Aberdeen, ID
New information and practical tips on prevention of
herbicide carry-over in potatoes.
Re-certification credits 2.5
10:15-10:45
Agroforestry Production Development Tool (APD Tool):
An Agroforestry Decision-making Tool for Producers
Kate Menzies, UBC Farm, Vancouver, BC
A business support tool for producers considering an
agroforestry venture on their land.
10:45-11:15
Integrating Apiculture with Riparian Buffers
Michael Murray, Murray Family Woodlot, Nelson, BC
The use of a family woodlot to demonstrate the benefits of
blending apiculture in an integrated riparian management
system.
11:15-11:45
Agroforestry Approaches on a Small Agricultural Lot
Sonja Zupanec and Jeff Rietkerk, Just Another Weed Patch
Farm, Gabriola Island, BC
An innovative approach to the development of a diverse nut
and timber tree grove grown in combination with livestock,
annual vegetable and flower crops.
Direct Solutions Room
Greenhouse Vegetable
Chair: Linda Delli Santi, BC Greenhouse Growers’
Association
Sponsor: BC Greenhouse Growers’ Association
9:00-9:20
Managing the Quantity and Quality of Light Entering
your Greenhouse
Peter Heemskirk, Mardenkro North America Ltd.,
Chilliwack, BC
The evolution of liquid shading compounds, from basic
chalk to high-tech pigments that can reduce light in
certain parts of the light spectrum and therefore create
customized shading.
9:20-9:45
Progress in Developing Methods for Reliable and
Sensitive Detection of Clavibacter and Salmonella in
Tomato Irrigation Water
Sally Miller, Ohio State University, Wooster, OH
Can irrigation water compromise crop productivity and food
safety as a carrier of plant and human pathogens? This
presentation will summarize preliminary efforts to develop
reliable and sensitive approaches to detect important
pathogens in irrigation water.
9:45-10:10
Efficacy of Disinfectants Against Fungal, Bacterial,
Virus and Viroid Pathogens of Tomatoes on Greenhouse
Tools
Sally Miller, Ohio State University, Wooster, OH
Mechanically transmitted pathogens spread easily from
plant to plant via contaminated hands, gloves and tools
during crop work operations. Information on efficacy of
various disinfectants against these pathogens will be
presented.
10:10-11:00
Priva TopCrop: A New Plant-Controlled Concept for
Greenhouse Process Control
Kevin de Kok, Priva, Netherlands
TopCrop integrates crop water balance into the control
loop for greenhouse climate and irrigation. Learn about
the novel features of the system and the results of pilots
conducted at commercial greenhouses.
11:00-11:30
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Matthew Wong, Service Canada, Vancouver, BC
Differences in program uptake between the provinces and
the future of the program in Canada will be discussed.
11:30-12:10
Using Biochar as a Medium Component for Greenhouse
Vegetable Crops
Nick Savidov, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development,
Edmonton, AB
Biochar is produced by heating organic feedstocks in a low
oxygen environment to prevent combustion. The findings of
6 yrs research on the use of biochar as a medium for the
commercial production of greenhouse vegetables will be
presented.
Re-certification Credits: 0.75
Thursday Afternoon January 30, 2014
TerraLink Room
Raspberries/Strawberries
BASF Gallery
Field Vegetables
Direct Solutions Room
Floriculture
1:30-2:10
SWD in Raspberries – 2013 Finding
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Lynell Tanigoshi, WSU, Mt. Vernon, WA
Learn what researchers discovered about SWD in
raspberries in last year’s challenging season.
1:30-2:15
Rots and Blights of Vegetables
Mary Hausbeck, Michigan State U., East Lansing MI
Learn more about novel and integrated management
strategies as a way of tackling important diseases that
afflict a variety of field vegetables including cucurbits,
tomatoes, carrots and more.
1:00-1:10
Introduction and Message from the Sponsors
Dean Shoemaker, Flowers Canada, Ontario
Chair: Sharmin Gamiet, Raspberry Industry Development
Council, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: Raspberry Industry Development Council
2:10-2:35
Lessons from the Worst SWD Year Ever – Panel
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Steve Phillips, Berryhill Foods, Abbotsford, BC
Chuck Mouritzen, Southwest Consulting, Yarrow, BC
Sukh Kahlon, Kahlon Farms, Abbotsford, BC
After a year of record losses, learn some practical things
that you can do to ensure your 2014 crop is protected.
2:35-2:55
Working Towards Better Raspberry and Strawberry
Establishment
Eric Gerbrant, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
A look at some innovative work with plug plants, timings
and mulches for getting a good, healthy start with new
plantings.
2:55-3:15
Present and Future Challenges with Soil Fumigation
in BC
Brian Johnston, TerraLink, Abbotsford, BC
With more restrictive regulatory hurdles, fumigation
is becoming more difficult. Is it still a viable option for
growers?
3:15-3:35
Bed Fumigation – An Option for Living with New
Regulations
Tom Walters, Walters Ag Research, Anacortes, WA
Tom has conducted several years of research with this
technique that holds promise for raspberry growers.
Chair: Susan Smith, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement
Assoc.
2:15-2:45
RNA Interference Technology – Applications for
Agriculture
Guus Bakkeren, AAFC, Summerland, BC
Ever wondered what “RNAi”( aka “RNA silencing”) is and
what the technology could mean for pest management in
horticulture? Molecular plant pathologist, Guus Bakkeren,
will explain.
2:45-3:15
CRM in Brassicaes – How Long Will Chlorpyrifos Work?
Bob Vernon, AAFC, Agassiz, BC
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
The latest results of cabbage root maggot resistance
surveys in select growing regions of BC and what
this means going forward. New chemistries are being
investigated as well as alternatives including a proposed
national row cover study.
3:15-3:45
Stuck in the Weeds?
Tim Miller, Washington State University, Mt. Vernon, WA
Adapting to the loss of weed control tools is a reality for
field vegetables. Hear the latest findings on weed control
in a variety of vegetables including beets, brassicaes,
cucurbits and more.
Re-certification credits: 1.75
3:35-3:55
Raspberry Market Outlook
Dianne Klatt, Pacific Coast Fruit, Abbotsford, BC
The market finally improved modestly in 2013. Will this
trend continue in 2014?
Re-certification Credits: 1.75
Chair: Cary Gates, Flowers Canada
Sponsors: United Flower Growers, Flowers Canada
and Koppert Canada
1:10-1:40
How to Get it Right: the Top 10 Reasons why your
Biocontrol Approach Didn’t Work
Brian Spencer, Applied Bio-nomics Ltd., Saanich, BC
Brian has played a considerable role in the development
and adoption of biocontrols in the Canadian ornamental
industries. His presentation will focus on the use of
biocontrol systems and the most common mistakes
growers make when using biocontrol agents.
1:40-2:25
Research Activities at the Vineland Research and
Innovation Centre
Rose Buitenhuis, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre,
Niagara Region, ON
The presentation will highlight research conducted on
managing pests through the introduction of predatory
mites (including A. swirskii), the use of banker plants in
greenhouse pest management and cutting dips to reduce
the risk of importing pests on vegetative cuttings.
2:25-3:00
Aphids 101 – Everything You Didn’t Know You Need to
Know About Aphids
Dave Gillespie, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Agassiz, BC
Aphids attack many of the commonly grown floriculture
crops, and can be extremely difficult to manage. Identifying
key aphid species in floriculture crops, and knowing about
their biology and life history are keys to running successful
management programs against these important pests.
Hear about the various approaches that could be drawn on
to develop a management program for aphids.
3:00-3:50
New Tools and Advances to Battle the Mildews
Mary Hausbeck, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI
Powdery and downy mildews are increasingly challenging
to control for ornamental growers. With new host diseases
being encountered, growers need to be vigilant and have
a discerning eye to identify and control these diseases in
a timely manner. This presentation will provide a summary
of new and emerging tools to identify and control powdery
and downy mildews.
Re-certification credits: 2.5
Pesticide Recertification Credit Program
LMHIA members holding a Pesticide Applicators Certificate may collect credits towards re-certification as an
option to re-writing an exam at the end of the 5 year certificate. Growers may participate
in the short course and other pre-approved educational events to collect the required
credits (20) over the five year period of their certificate to become re-certified. Sessions at
the Short Course which are eligible for pesticide re-certification credits are indicated with
a ladybug logo.
To participate in the program a grower must:
• Maintain membership in the LMHIA (i.e. register for the short course each year)
• Possess a current & valid 5 year certificate in the agriculture general category
• Be able to read and comprehend English pesticide labels
Registration forms for the credit program will be available at the registration desk during the Growers’ Short
Course.
Collect Pesticide Credits!! Watch for the sessions with a ladybug logo. The total credits for eligible
sessions are indicated at the bottom of each session.
Opening Reception
4 pm Thursday
Everyone Welcome
Cover photo credit:
Mark Sweeney, Berry Specialist,
BCAGRI Abbotsford
Friday Morning January 31, 2014
TerraLink Room
2014 Building Farm Business
Success - A Lens on Agriculture
Chair: Jennifer Curtis, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: BCAGRI Business Knowledge and Strategic
Adaptation - A Growing Forward 2 Initiative
9:00-9:45
Sustainability: What Does That Mean?
Brett Wills, Director Green Enterprise Movement, Toronto, ON
Going green has long been viewed as a “nice to do” in
good times but that thinking is rapidly changing as more
companies discover the power of green as a way to cut
costs, increase revenues and gain competitiveness. Learn
what it takes to go green, the challenges you will face
and how to overcome them, making your business more
successful. www.greenenterprise.ca
9:45-10:30
Cultural (R)evolution in Agriculture
Maureen Geddes, geddesglobal.ca, Chatham, ON
Who is an agricultural employee today? Local is looking
more global – and a “stranger” is but a friend you have yet
to meet… or the best employee you never imagined hiring.
Learn fun and practical ways to engage with the cultural
(r)evolution so you can prevent complaints, improve
productivity, and lead your team with wisdom.
10:30-10:45 Refreshment Break
10:45-12:00
The Bright New Future of Agriculture
Jay Lehr, Economist and Futurist, The Heartland Institute,
Chicago USA
Dr. Jay Lehr combines 5 decades of expertise and
experience in Agricultural Economics, Agronomy,
Environmental Science and Business Administration with
the most contagious enthusiasm for the future of the Farm.
His extensive work within the farming industry has given
him a highly sought after crystal ball which he predicts the
future based on precise knowledge of the past as well as
distinctive current trends. This presentation will address
the key drivers of Agri-business and impact of advancing
technologies on the local and global economy.
Dr. Jay Lehr
Jay Lehr is the Science
Director of the Heartland
Institute, a 29-year-old
national nonprofit research
organization dedicated to
finding and promoting ideas
that empower people. He
received the first Ph.D. in
Ground Water Hydrology
from the University of Arizona and taught at the
University of Arizona and Ohio State before becoming
the Executive Director of the National Ground Water
Association and the Association for Ground Water
Scientists and Engineers for 25 years.
He has spoken to hundreds of groups and has written
30 books. He is well known for his athletic prowess
having completed nine Hawaiian Ironman Triathlon
World Championships and holding the world’s longest
streak of monthly skydives.
BASF Gallery
Farm Direct Marketing
Chair: Donna Anaka, BCAGRI, Vancouver, BC
9:05-9:15
Welcoming Remarks
Murray Siemens, President, Fraser Valley Farm Direct
Marketing Association, Abbotsford, BC
9:15-10:00
Co-operation, Collaboration, and Creativity
Heather Stretch, Saanich Organics, Saanichton, BC
An open mind can be more effective than a large advertising budget. Heather will share her experiences at Saanich
Organics in a lively, creative environment to re-invigorate
our marketing strategies.
10:00-10:15 Refreshment Break
10:15-11:00
Making Bucks and Sense of Farmers Markets
Jon Bell, BC Assoc of Farmers’ Markets, Sechelt, BC
Farmers’ Markets can make sense for small scale farms
and new farmers. Market shoppers are looking to connect
with farmers to learn about growing food. Learn how to
position your farm stand and maximize your returns.
11:00-11:50
Seeing Where the Value is in Becoming “Value-Added”
On-Farm and Family: A Success Story
Emma and Kerry Davison, Golden Ears Cheesecrafters,
Maple Ridge, BC
Discover how a hundred year old legacy was re-born as
an artisan Cheese making venture. The Davison family of
four works together to produce award winning handcrafted
artisan cheeses for a clearly defined and growing customer
base. Learn how your vision and company focus can
increase sales and profits.
FCC Loft
Agricultural Water and Safe Food
Production Realities
Chair: Elsie Friesen, BCAGRI, Food Protection Branch,
Abbotsford, BC
9:00-9:10
Lower Mainland Surface Water Research – What Did
We Learn?
Stephaine Nadya, UBC Master’s Candidate, Vancouver, BC
9:10-9:25
Surface Water Research and How it Impacts
Agricultural Products
Pascal Delaquis, AAFC Researcher, Summerland, BC
9:25-9:50
Field Water Impact on Produce Safety
Greg Komar, NSF CanadaGAP Technical Advisor, Salinas,
CA
Pre-Farm Gate Environment (Farm, Harvest, Field Pack)
and the risks associated with water use.
9:50-10:00
Irrigation Water Research – an AGRI and UBC
Partnership Project
UBC Post Doctoral Fellowship Candidate, and Elsie
Friesen, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Direct Solutions Room
Nursery
Chair: David Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: BC Landscape & Nursery Association
9:00-9:30
Pest Update
Dave Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
An update on Boxwood Blight and Ramorum Blight and
Dieback, two pathogens that continue to be problematic for
the nursery sector.
9:30-10:15
Optimizing Your Soilless Media
Lance Lawson, Horticulture Specialist, Premier Tech
Horticulture, Utah
Recommended physical and chemical properties of a
soilless growing media and the benefits of incorporating
microbial additives, such as biofungicides and mycorrhizae
products, in the media.
10:15-10:30 Refreshment Break
10:30-11:10
Organic Matter in Horticulture around the World
Mario Lanthier, CropHealth Advising & Research, Kelowna,
BC
Summaries from 3 scientific meetings held recently in
Europe and South America. Topics include compost in
field production, potting mixes in organic greenhouse
horticulture and emergence of biostimulants as
commercial products. Practical use of recent research
findings will be highlighted.
11:10-noon
Robotics and Automation in Horticulture
John Van de Vegte, Vineland Research and Innovation
Centre, Niagara Region, ON
The development of new technologies and equipment
in the horticulture industry to improve productivity and/
or product quality. The main topic points: Overview of
key technology components; Identifying areas where the
development of new technology is justified; Technology
development process and review a Case Study.
10:00 Refreshment Break
10:10-10:35
Post Harvest Waters – Strategies to Mitigate and
Ensure Safe Products
Greg Komar, NSF CanadaGAP Technical Advisor, Salinas, CA
10:35-10:45
Regulatory Modernization – and its Effect on Grower
Operations
Elsie Friesen, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
10:45-11:15
Reality Check-Up on Growing Forward Funding
A panel discussion on the successes of Growing Forward
1 funding, and what’s coming in GF2
Moderator: Bill Weismiller, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Panel Members: Vic Martens, ARDCORP, Abbotsford, BC
Alison Speirs, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
11:15-11:40
Insurance and Food Safety: Handling a Risky Situation
Kathryn Britnell, Reliance Insurance, Vancouver, BC
How do recalls affect the financial picture of a farm?
11:40-12:00
Mock Recalls and How They Add Value to Your
Operation
BCIT Instructor, Burnaby, BC
Friday Afternoon January 31, 2014
TerraLink Room
All Berries
Chair: Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: MNP LLP
1:30-1:50
Downy Mildew of Blackberry – Management Options
Janice Elmhirst, Elmirst Diagnostics and Research,
Abbotsford, BC
Blackberry growers have been hit hard by downy mildew
in recent years. Janice has been investigating some
promising control options.
1:50-2:10
Why Berry Growers Need to Get on the Food Safety
Ball in 2014
Vic Martens, ARDCorp, Abbotsford, BC
More than ever, growers need to have a formal food
safety program to satisfy the marketplace. There are
resources and funding to help.
2:10-2:30
Brown Marmorated Stink Bug – Why You Need to Be
Prepared
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Not another new pest! This one is now in Washington
State and moving north.
2:30-2:50
What You Need to Know About Armillaria Root Rot
Siva Sabaratnam, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
This disease is now impacting dozens of blueberry
fields. Learn how to identify and manage this emerging
problem.
2:50-3:15
What is the Real Story Behind Declining Bee Health?
Elizabeth Elle, SFU, Burnaby, BC
The media has been buzzing with stories about
disappearing bees and the negative impacts on crop
pollination. Is this concern real? What should growers do
to protect their bees and their crops.
3:15-3:35
Promising New Blueberry Cultural Practices - 2013
Trials
Eric Gerbrant, UFV Berry Resource Centre, Chilliwack, BC
Eric is working with the Pacific Berry Resource Centre at
UFV on a range of production trials with potential benefits
for growers.
3:35-3:45
Are Blueberry Growers Making the Most of their
Nitrogen?
David Poon, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
A 2012 survey of post-harvest nutrients found high
levels of nitrates in blueberry fields. Do we know what
it means?
Re-certification Credits: 1.25
3:45 LMHIA Business Meeting
Everyone welcome
BASF Gallery
Field Vegetables
Chair: Noel Roddick, retired agrologist, Delta, BC
Sponsor: Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement
Assoc.
1:30-2:15
Improving Nutrient Utilization
Terry Tindall, J.R. Simplot Co., Boise, ID
Nutrisphere-N is an innovative solution to efficient
utilization of soil applied nitrogen. Hear more about
how it works and what the advantages are for vegetable
production and also the environment. Hear also an update
on how Avail improves utilization of phosphorus.
2:15-2:50
Panel Session: Expanding the Potential for Carrot
Production in BC
Moderator: Heather Meberg, ES Cropconsult, Surrey, BC
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Randy Sihota, Canadian Farms, Surrey, BC
By expanding processing options, the carrot industry in
South Western BC has the potential to grow. Hear the
results of a new trial that is assessing agronomic, postharvest and culinary performance of carrot varieties grown
last year on the Sumas.
2:50-3:35
Production and Pest Management of Beets in BC
Bruce Wisbey, Wisbey Veggies, Abbotsford, BC
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Learn from a Fraser Valley grower about growing this
crop and the advantages and production challenges it
presents. Hear also about a new project underway to better
understand the pest issues of this crop from the field
through to storage.
3:35-4:00
What’s New in the BC Production Guide?
Susan Smith, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Highlights of recent production guide updates for BC field
vegetable growers.
Re-certification credits: 1.0
3:45 LMHIA Business Meeting
Terralink Room - Everyone welcome
Thank you to our generous
meeting room sponsors:
BASF (Engage Agro)
BMO Bank of Montreal
Direct Solutions
Farm Credit Canada
Terralink Horticulture Inc
Thank You!
• Student volunteers from University of the Fraser Valley
• Flowering plants from Nick Heemskerk, UFV, JRT Nurseries Inc. and Treeline Nursery
Direct Solutions Room
Nursery
Chair: Dave Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: BC Landscape & Nursery Association
1:10-1:40
Recipe for Prevention: How to Manage Pests on
Cuttings
Rose Buitenhuis, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre,
Niagara Region, ON
New pests or pesticide-resistant pests can be introduced
on imported cuttings. Regardless of whether you import
or use a local source of cuttings, there are benefits
to managing pests on cuttings prior to sticking. This
presentation will summarize the findings of research on
the use of cutting dips to manage arthropod pests on
vegetative cuttings.
1:40-2:40
Keeping Trees, Shrubs (and you) Stress-free: What
Works, What Doesn’t, and Why
Linda Chalker-Scott, Associate Professor, Washington State
University, Puyallup, WA
The two most common environmental stresses in
nurseries, gardens and landscapes are water and
temperature. Take preventative action by understanding
how plants respond to drought, flooding, and high and
low temperatures, and by using appropriate practices and
products.
2:40-3:30
Precision Irrigation in Greenhouses and Nurseries:
Improving Production and Increasing Profits
Marc van Iersel, Department of Horticulture, University of
Georgia, Athens, GA
Soil moisture sensors can be used to trigger irrigation
when needed, resulting in more efficient irrigation. The
benefits of efficient irrigation go well beyond reducing
water use; it can also improve production and increase
profits. Case studies from commercial nurseries show how
growers can benefit from this technology.
3:30-4:00
Precision Irrigation in Greenhouses and Nurseries:
Improving Production and Increasing Profits
Beatriz Ramos, Len Thorburn & Bill Lightowlers, OCION
Water Sciences Group, Richmond, BC
Water reservoirs provide a habitat for algae and
waterborne plant pathogens. Maintaining water quality and
clean irrigation lines is essential for optimum functioning of
irrigation systems in nurseries and greenhouses.
Re-certification Credits: 0.5
3:45 LMHIA Business Meeting
Terralink Room - Everyone welcome
Saturday Morning February 1, 2014
TerraLink Room
Blueberries
Chair: Rhonda Driediger, Driediger Farms, Langley, BC
Sponsors: Berryhill Foods Inc and Driediger Farms
9:00-9:20
Lessons Learned from BC’s Worst SWD Year Ever
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Tracy’s research group tracked weekly SWD pressure in a
number of blueberry fields and learned some key practical
insights.
9:20-9:55
Managing Spotted Wing Drosophila in Blueberries –
the Michigan Experience
Rufus Isaacs, MSU, Michigan
While SWD was a late arrival to Michigan, it came with a
vengeance. Some practical tips from the Michigan industry
on managing this pest.
9:55-10:20
New Pesticide Registrations for Blueberries and How
to Use Them
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Caroline Bedard, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
An update of new products for 2014 and a peek at what is
coming down the pike.
10:20-10:35 Refreshment Break
10:35-11:00
The Blueberry Market in 2014 – Will You Wipe-out in
the Blue Wave?
John Shelford, Shelford Associates, Naples, Florida
The 2013 season saw some unusual market pressures.
With more supply expected in 2014 and beyond, what’s in
store for the BC and global blueberry industry?
11:00-11:30
Communicating a Positive Public Image for BC
Blueberries
Norm Hartman, TMT WorldWide, San Francisco, CA
In the new world of social media, information, both positive
and negative, can spread instantly. Learn what individual
growers and industry organizations can to do to build and
maintain a solid industry reputation.
11:30-12:10
What You Need to Know about Blueberry Nutrient
Management for Yield, Quality and Sustainability
Bernadine Strik, OSU, Corvallis, OR
Bernadine has conducted years of research into the
nutrient needs of the blueberry plant and provides a
summary of what we know.
BASF Gallery
Organic
Chair: Gary Jones, Kwantlen Polytechnic University,
Langley, BC
Sponsor: Fraser Valley Organic Producers Assoc.
8:55-9:15
Managing Diseases in Beans
Marjolaine Dessureault, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Schlerotinia and botrytis can often plague a bean field.
Hear more about work being done to provide organics with
some defensive tools against these challenging diseases.
9:15-9:35
Caterpillar Control in Organic Brassicae Crops
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Learn more about the potential for Xen Tari (Bt) to manage
caterpillar pests in cole crops.
9:35-10:05
Pest Wars On a Mixed Vegetable Farm in Delta
Harvie Snow, Snow Farms, Delta, BC
Hear some insights learned through the “school of hard
knocks” to alleviate pest pressure in field vegetables.
10:05-10:15 Refreshment Break
10:15-10:30
Managing Beneficials 101
Jim Matteoni, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Langley, BC
Concepts of biocontrol - attracting and maintaining
beneficials.
10:30-11:20
Panel Session: Tips to Enhancing the Beneficials You
Have
Moderator: Jim Matteoni, Kwantlen Polytechnic University,
Langley, BC
Andrea Davenport, Koppert Canada, Surrey, BC
Paul Koole, Biobest Canada/The Bug Factory, Langley, BC
Brian Spencer, Applied Bio-Nomics, N. Saanich, BC
Hear tips to making the best use of products available from
suppliers of biological controls.
Direct Solutions Room
Hazelnuts
Chair: Peter Andres, BCHGA, Agassiz, BC
Sponsor: BC Hazelnut Growers Association
9:00-9:45
Life After Blight - Is there a Future for the Family Farm
after EFB?
Rich Birkemeier, Birkemeier Farms, Canby, OR
A testimony of his experiences - facing the challenges and
the emotional roller coaster that is Eastern Filbert Blight.
9:45-10:30
A Trial to Evaluate New Hazelnut Cultivars in British
Columbia
Thom O’Dell, Nature Tech Nursery, Langley, BC
Learn about the preliminary information that has been
gained from field trials with EFB resistant varieties.
10:30-10:45 Refreshment Break
10:45-11:30
Business Meeting (AGM) of the BC Hazelnut Growers
Association
Everybody: members and non-members, welcome to
attend
Hear reports, financial statement, levy vote for 2014-15
and election of officers.
11:30-noon
Hazelnuts are Back!
Haley Argen and Thom O’Dell, Nature Tech Nursery,
Langley, BC
A look at new available varieties and those coming in
future years - research information on pollination, growth
habit, production and stock availability, costs, scheduling
orders, etc.
11:20-noon
Biodiversity in Agricultural Habitats to Promote
Beneficials
Bill Snyder, Washington State University, Pullman WA
Learn about some on-farm examples of how biodiversity in
the field complements biocontrol. Re-certification Credits: 1.25
Look for pesticide applicator re-certification
points at the PMRA booth and other
participating booths.
Get your record card at the registration desk.
See us at PMRA for more information.
BERRYHILL FOODS INC.
Proud supporter of the
2014 Horticulture Growers Short Course
www.berryhillfoods.com
Saturday Afternoon February 1, 2014
TerraLink Room
Blueberries
Chair: Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: Berryhill Foods Inc and BC Blueberry
Council
1:30-1:50
Blueberry Bird Management - New Regulations
Debbie Etsell, BCBC, Abbotsford, BC
This issue continues to be a major challenge for the
industry. Learn how to comply with the changes.
1:50-2:30
Keys to Better Quality BC Blueberries
Karina Sakalauskas, BCBC, Abbotsford, BC – moderator
Debbie Etsell, BCBC, Abbotsford, BC
David Mutz, BerryHaven Farms, Abbotsford, BC
Parm Bains, Westberry Farms, Abbotsford, BC
How are BC growers doing when it comes to quality?
What do growers need to do to maintain and improve the
international reputation of BC fruit?
BASF Gallery
Organic
Direct Solutions Room
Hazelnuts
1:00-2:00 pm
Organic Blueberry Production – Yielding Conventional
Results
Bernadine Strik, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
The results of an 8 year certified organic blueberry
research trial where much has been learned and success
has been achieved using Duke and Liberty varieties under
a range of management regimes including how to best
establish plantings, nitrogen fertilizer management and
weed control using mulches and approved herbicides.
1:15-2:00
Management Techniques in New High Density Orchards
Rich Birkemeier, Birkemeier Farms, Canby, OR
Proven techniques, based on Rich’s experience, including
pruning of new varieties.
Chair: Harvie Snow, FVOPA, Delta, BC
Sponsor: Fraser Valley Organic Producers Assoc.
Chair: Peter Andres, BCHGA, Agassiz, BC
Sponsor: BC Hazelnut Growers Association
2:00-2:45
Panel: Question and Answer Period
Peter Andres, BCHGA president, Agassiz, BC
Rich Birkemeier, Birkemeier Farms, Canby, OR
Haley Argen & Thom O’Dell, Nature Tech Nursery, Langley, BC
Information on organic production and processing of
hazelnuts, value-added products and increasing farm
income.
2:00-2:45
Organic Berry Production Challenges
Panel moderator: Marjolaine Dessurealt, ES Cropconsult
Ltd., Surrey, BC
2:45-3:10
Kristine Ferris, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Wrap-up Session and Closing
Bernadine Strik, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
2:30-2:45
Peter Andres, BCHGA president, Agassiz, BC
Ting Wu, Formosa Farms, Maple Ridge, BC
How to Keep on the Good Side of Environmental
There is no doubt that organic production challenges are
Regulators
real when managing a berry crop. The panel discusses
certifying
Kim Sutherland,Proudly
BCAGRI, Abbotsford,
BC BC Producers and Processors
a recent survey of growers and experts in the Pacific
More and
more
pertaining
wood waste,Agency which delivers an ISO 65 program
FVOPA
is regulations
a leading edge
OrganictoCertification
Northwest regarding organic berry production management
Refreshment Break Sponsors
stream protection and species
at riskwith
are the
impacting
compliant
National Standards
of Canada.
challenges
and perspectives on how to overcome.
blueberry farm development.
What
you
need
to
know.
FVOPA’s certification program is recognized in Canada, USA and EU.
• BC Blueberry Council
2:45-3:25
2:45-3:15 FVOPA provides year-round efficient and professional certification services for
Tunnels
and Season
Extension in Mixed
• Berryhill Foods Inc.
Livestock, Crop and Processing/Handling operations ofHigh
all sizes.
FVOPA’s
Inspectors
New Developments
in BC Blueberry Breeding, New
are highly qualified and IOIA trained. File transfers Vegetables
are arranged confidentially.
Variety Releases of Interest
• BMO Bank of Montreal
Miles, Washington
State U, Mt. Vernon, WA
To request an application or for more information pleaseCarol
visit Ann
our website
www.fvopa.ca
Michael Dossett, PARC, Agassiz, BC
or email the Administrator at [email protected]
High tunnels can provide solutions to disease challenges
• Country Life in BC
Peter Boches, Fall Creek Nursery, Lowell, OR
when growing crops
such as field tomatoes – it’s all in FVOPA
the
[email protected]
The BC program with new funding and direction is
style of the tunnel,
(of course) management.
• Grodan Inc.
Oct 2013
FVOPA
Phoneand
604.789.7586
already
showing some promising selections. Learn about
PO
Box
18591
Message
604.607.1655
3:25-3:55
the new variety releases from Fall Creek.
2 COLUMNS
3.5”
• PenergeticXCanada
Delta, BC V4K 4V7
Fax: 1-866-230-0322
Weed Management
– Tools for Organics
3:15-3:35
• RBC Royal Bank Agriculture &
Tim Miller, Washington State University, Mt. Vernon, WA
The Great Disappearing Crop of 2013 – Where Did the
Hear about work in Washington State on organic sprays,
Yield Go? There’s never a better time than NOW to apply for Organic Certification
Agribusiness Team
including vinegar, for weed control in both berries and
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
vegetables.
The BC crop saw a shortfall in production of over 10
million lbs. Why did it happen and can it be prevented?
Fraser Valley Organic
Producers Association
www.fvopa.ca
BMO Room
Small Lot Agriculture - 9 am to 4 pm
Education Session Sponsors
Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Sustainable Food
Systems Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Langley, BC
Fraser Valley Organic
Producers Association
Proudly certifying BC Producers and Processors
FVOPA is a leading edge Organic Certification Agency which delivers an ISO 65 program
compliant with the National Standards of Canada.
FVOPA’s certification program is recognized in Canada, USA and EU.
FVOPA provides year-round efficient and professional certification services for
Livestock, Crop and Processing/Handling operations of all sizes. FVOPA’s Inspectors
are highly qualified and IOIA trained. File transfers are arranged confidentially.
To request an application or for more information please visit our website www.fvopa.ca
or email the Administrator at [email protected]
[email protected]
Phone 604.789.7586
Message 604.607.1655
Fax: 1-866-230-0322
FVOPA
PO Box 18591
Delta, BC V4K 4V7
www.fvopa.ca
There’s never a better time than NOW to apply for Organic Certification
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BC Blueberry Council
BC Greenhouse Growers Association
BC Hazelnut Growers Association
BC Landscape & Nursery Association
Berryhill Foods Inc.
Driediger Farms
Farm Credit Canada
Flowers Canada
Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association
Growing Forward 2, A Federal-ProvincialTerritorial Initiative
Koppert Canada
Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement
Assoc.
MNP LLP
Raspberry Industry Development Council
United Flower Growers
Registration information:
Register ON-LINE at www.agricultureshow.net
OR Download the pdf registration form online
Registration fees: $75.00 (by January 13) or $100.00 (after January 13)
2012 / 2013 LMHIA
Board of Directors
Your Course Registration Fee includes:
President: David Mutz
Vice-President: James Bergen
Secretary: Susan Smith
Treasurer: Mark Sweeney
• Attendance in any or all educational sessions
Mike Boot
Marjolaine Dessureault
Trevor Harris
Jeff Husband
Brian Johnston
Alf Krause
Jordan Krause
Sid Kwantes
Ed McKim
Grant McMillan
Mike Makara
Heather Meberg
Lydia Ryall
Harvie Snow
Ria van Eekelen
Bruce Wisbey
• Annual Membership in the LMHIA
• Admittance to the Pacific Agriculture Show
• Admittance to Thursday afternoon welcome reception
• Participation in the Pesticide Applicators License Re-certification Program
For further information Phone: 604-556-3001
or 604-857-0318
or www.agricultureshow.net
Ex Officio Directors
Donna Anaka
Jenny Curtis
Michael Dossett
Sheila Fitzpatrick
Elsie Friesen
Gary Jones
Todd Kabaluk
Dave Trotter
Bob Vernon
Dave Woodske
Executive Director
Sandy Dunn
Platinum Sponsors
The Horticulture Growers’ Short Course is produced jointly by the
British Columbia Ministry of Agriculture and the
Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement Association
in partnership with the Pacific Agriculture Show