1. Art and Diseño

HORTICULTURAL GROWERS’
SHORT COURSE
JANUARY 29-31, 2015
Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement Association
together with the Pacific Agriculture Show
at
TRADEX Abbotsford Airport (Exit 83, Mt. Lehman, south of Hwy #1)
Thursday Morning, January 29, 2015
Terralink Room
Direct Solutions Room
BASF Gallery
Raspberries/Strawberries
Greenhouse Vegetable
Potatoes
Chair: Tom Baumann, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
Sponsor: Raspberry Industry Development Council
Chair: Linda Delli Santi, BCCGA, Surrey, BC
Sponsor: BC Greenhouse Growers' Assoc and Flowers
Canada
Chair: Leisa Yee, BCPVGA, Delta, BC
Sponsor: BC Potato & Vegetable Growers Assoc.
9:00-9:30
New Techniques for Getting Raspberries and
Strawberries Off to a Better Start
Eric Gerbrandt, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
Thinking outside of the box to get healthier, better
establishment of new fields.
9:30-10:10
Current and Future Options for Soil Fumigation– Panel
Discussion
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Tom Walters, Walters Ag Research, Anacortes, WA
David Mutz, Berry Haven Farms, Abbotsford, BC
With the increased regulations, the loss of a local
applicator and product registration limitations, is
fumigation a practise of the past?
10:10 Refreshment Break
10:25-10:55
Disturbing New Developments on the Raspberry Virus
Front
Pat Moore, WSU, Puyallup, WA
Bob Martin, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, OR
Recent research revealed new information about the
behavior of Raspberry Bushy Dwarf Virus with some
important implications for raspberry growers.
10:55-12:10
Raspberry and Strawberry Variety Developments
Chad Finn, USDA-ARS, Corvallis, OR
Michael Dossett, BCBC, Agassiz, BC
Pat Moore, WSU, Puyallup, WA
Eric Gerbrandt, UFV, Chilliwack, BC
The future of the berry industry in BC depends on new
high yielding, disease-resistant varieties. How is the
progress going?
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 1.25
MEETING ROOM SPONSORS
9:05–9:50
Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Matthew Wong, Service Canada, Vancouver, BC
The temporary foreign worker program helps employers
to meet their needs for low or high-skilled labour. Matt
will discuss recent changes to the program that will
affect the greenhouse sector.
9:50-10:15
To Fog, or Not to Fog – that is the Question!
Mark Stanley, MicroCool, Thousand Palms, CA
High-pressure fog systems can be used to humidify and
cool greenhouse environments. Mark will discuss the
use of fog systems to optimize environmental conditions
around the plant to maximize plant growth and crop
yield.
10:15 Refreshment Break
10:15-10:55
Strategies for Biocontrol of Aphids in Greenhouse
Vegetable Crops
Gerben Messelink, Wageningen UR Greenhouse
Horticulture, The Netherlands
Biological control of aphids is often not successful and
considered as too expensive. Gerben will discuss new
strategies for aphid control that might increase efficacy
and reduce costs. He will discuss the use of generalist
predatory bugs, parasitoids, predatory midges, and how
to promote the natural infection of aphids by
Entomophthora, such as Pandora neoaphidis.
10:55-11:30
Improving Greenhouse Sanitation
Anissa Poleatewich, Vineland Research and Innovation
Centre, ON
The effectiveness of different application methods and
several disinfectants for the control of persistent viruses,
such as Pepino Mosaic Virus, from greenhouse
surfaces.
FCC Loft
11:30-12:00
From the Depths of the Earth…to your Greenhouse
Alison Thompson, Canadian Geothermal Energy
Association, Calgary, AB
You may think you've heard it before…but we are not
talking geoexhange heat pumps, this is conventional
Geothermal Energy. This renewable heat source is
available right across the province and is used in 70
countries around the world. Can you harness this heat to
lower your production costs? CanGEA tells you how.
Agroforestry/Alternate Crops
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 1.25
• BASF
• BMO Bank of Montreal
• Direct Solutions
• Terralink Horticulture Inc.
9:00–9:20
Growing Forward “2” Improved Control of Wireworm
Bob Vernon, AAFC, Agassiz, BC
Research is underway across Canada to support new
product registrations and alternative methods of control
of wireworm in potatoes.
9:20–9:50
Toward a Comprehensive Approach for Wireworm
Biocontrol
Todd Kabaluk, AAFC, Agassiz, BC
Recent advances in biological control offer the
possibility to target larvae at planting, as well as adult
beetles during rotation years to stem the tide of new
infestations and build-up of wireworm.
9:50 Refreshment Break
10:00–10:45
Advances in Pacific Northwest Potato Pest
Management
Alan Schreiber, Agriculture Dev. Group, Eltopia, WA
Growers face significant challenges in managing potato
insect pests. Advice on using IPM to improve efficacy of
inputs and to reduce risk.
10:45-11:15
Black Dot in Potatoes – Management and Prevention
Siva Sabaratnam, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Black dot is caused by a fungus with a wide host range
and is present in many potato growing regions of N.
America including the Pacific Northwest. Management
includes cultural and chemical control options.
11:15-noon
2014 BC Potato Variety Trial Results – With a View
From the Kitchen
Heather Meberg, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Surrey, BC
Trevor Randle, Maple Ridge Secondary School, Maple
Ridge, BC
New freshmarket potato variety offerings need to be
suitable not only from the standpoint of agronomics, but
they also need to stand up in the kitchen. Secondary
school Chef Instructor Trevor Randle and the Take A Bite
of BC program have made culinary assessments a key
feature of the BC potato variety trial.
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 2.0
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.
8:45–9:00
Introduction
Dave Trotter, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
9:00–9:30
The W's of Silvopasture – a Production Approach
Lisa Zabek, BCAGRI, Kamloops, BC
What, Why, Where - initiatives, partnerships and projects
which are being developed to support silvopasture as a
land use option in BC.
9:30–10:00
Alternate Crops and Agri-tourism – A Year Round
Experience
Heloise Dixon-Warren and Ted Traer, Moose Meadows
Farm, Quesnel, BC
See how alternate crops and agri-tourism can provide a
unique experience to consumers.
10:00–10:30
Food Forest Agroforestry in Eastern BC
Michelle Heinz, Clear Sky Meditation and Study
Foundation, Fort Steele, BC
Learn about an innovative approach to a food forest
model that demonstrates agroforestry practices that are
ecologically sound as well as productive in South
Eastern BC.
10:30–11:00
Microbreweries – sourcing local suppliers for beer
making ingredients
Speaker: TBA
Find out what specialty crops and products that some
BC micro-breweries are looking for to create that locally
produced and unique tasting beer.
11:00–11:30
Grass Fed Beef Production and Agroforestry
David Zirnhelt, Zirnhelt Ranch, Beaver Valley, BC
Learn about an innovative approach to the production
and direct marketing of grass-fed beef using a
silvopasture management approach.
Thursday Afternoon, January 29, 2015
Terralink Room
Direct Solutions Room
BASF Gallery
Raspberries/Strawberries
Floriculture
Field Vegetables
Chair: Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsor: Engage Agro
Chair: Dave Woodske, BC Ministry of Agriculture
Sponsor: Flowers Canada and United Flower Growers
1:30-2:00
Evaluations of New Products for Weed Control in
Raspberries and Strawberries
Tim Miller, WSU, Mt. Vernon, WA
We are getting closer to registration of several new
herbicides – the latest performance information.
1:00–1:25
Pot Azaleas, Flanders' Pride - How Breeders, Growers
and Researchers Join Efforts to Create a Success
Story
Stefaan Werbrouck, Ghent University, Belgium
During two centuries, azalea breeders used the
rhododendron gene pool to create fancy pot plants with
double flowers, subtle color variations and extended
flowering. In close interaction, researchers and growers
refined production practices. Nowadays specialization,
automation and flexible marketing allow growers of
Flanders azalea to stay competitive.
Chair: Noel Roddick, retired agrologist, Delta, BC.
Sponsor: Lower Mainland Horticulture Improvement
Association
2:00-2:20
Day Neutral Strawberries – Recognizing and Managing
Insect Pests
Emily Carmichael, ES Cropconsult, Vancouver, BC
Day neutral strawberry production systems present
some particularly challenging pest issues.
2:20-2:50
How Effective Are Our Fungicides in Controlling
Botrytis?
Tobin Peever, WSU, Pullman, WA
Recent surveys in Washington pointed to concerns with
Botrytis resistance to popular fungicides. What is the
current situation in BC? What can we do to improve
control?
2:50-3:10
SWD Management in Strawberries and Raspberries
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
2014 was a much better year for raspberry growers in
the SWD war. What have we learned so far and how to
follow an effective program
3:10-3:30
Opportunities for Improving Raspberry Soil Health
Chris Benedict, WSU, Bellingham, WA
A long-term study evaluating cover cropping and other
management practices on soil and crop performance.
3:30-3:50
Raspberry Market Situation
Dianne Klatt, Jennifer Dhaliwal, Pacific Coast Fruit,
Abbotsford, BC
Finally, raspberry growers received a profitable price for
their fruit last year. Will the market stay strong in
2015?
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 2.0
1:25–2:25
How to Establish Natural Enemies in Ornamental Crops
Gerben Messelink, Wageningen UR Greenhouse
Horticulture, The Netherlands
Dr. Messelink has conducted considerable research on
biocontrol systems of greenhouse pests. Factors that
impact the establishment of biocontrol agents in a
greenhouse are highlighted.
2:25-3:25
Western Flower Thrips: Is The Game Over?
Raymond Cloyd, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
Western flower thrips (WFT) is the most difficult insect
pest to deal with in greenhouse production systems. It
causes both direct and indirect crop damage via feeding
and vectoring viruses, which means the tolerance for
this pest is essentially zero. However, the primary means
of dealing with WFT involves a holistic approach that
combines cultural, physical, chemical, and biological
processes. Fundamental management practices need to
be implemented to mitigate populations of WFT.
3:25-3:50
What is the Real Story Behind Declining Bee Health?
Elizabeth Elle, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC
Pollinator declines are in the news and there are multiple
causes. Hear the evidence about how pesticides,
diseases, and habitat loss affect pollinators and what it
means for floriculture.
1:30-2:00
2014 Cole Crop Variety Trials
Mike Wallis, Langley, BC
Update on broccoli and brussels sprouts variety trials
underway in the Fraser Valley.
2:00-2:30
Pest Biology: The Key to an Effective Scouting
Program
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Coquitlam, BC
If you ignore the biology of a pest such as carrot rust fly,
then scouting and spray programs can go all wrong.
How knowledge of pest biology can improve control of
challenging insect pests of vegetables.
2:30-3:15
Organic Asparagus Production – Perspectives on this
Crop and More from a Washington Vegetable Grower
Alan Schreiber, Schreiber & Sons Farm, Eltopia, WA
Alan is a vegetable IPM specialist who, in addition to
asparagus, grows a range of vegetables for the organic
wholesale market and over 100 different crops for the
local market.
3:15-3:45
Yellow Nutsedge – A Beast of a Weed
Tim Miller, Washington State University, Mt. Vernon, WA
Biology and management advice on this invasive weed
that is alive and kicking in growing areas of the Pacific
Northwest.
3:45-4:00
BC Field Vegetable Production Guide - 2015
Highlights*
Susan Smith, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 1.25
3:50-4:10
Ornamentals and Pollinator Protection: Update from
Flowers Canada's Activities
Cary Gates, Flowers Canada, Guelph, ON
An open discussion and update on how ornamental
production has been impacted by concerns of pollinator
decline and subsequent shifts in production tools,
practices and retailer positions.
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-certiied. 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
Opening Reception
4 pm Thursday
Everyone Welcome
Registration forms for the credit program will be available at the registration desk during the Growers’ Short
Course.
Cover photo credit:
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.
Dave Woodske, Industry Specialist
Ornaments & Greenhouse Vegetables
BCAGRI, Abbotsford
Friday Morning, January 30, 2015
Terralink Room
Direct Solutions Room
BASF Gallery
Building Farm Business Success
Nursery
Farm Direct Marketing
Chair: Don Low, BCAGRI Creston, BC
Sponsor: BCAGRI Business Knowledge & Strategic
Adaptation Program - Forward 2 Initiative and Farm
Credit Canada
Chair: Dave Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Chairperson: Donna Anaka, BCAGRI, Vancouver, BC
9:00–9:10
Nostoc: A New Nursery Pest
Dave Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Nostoc, a blue-green algae is showing up in nursery
container beds in North America. It colonizes gravel &
other surfaces, making them very slippery & hazardous
to workers.
9:00-9:15
Welcoming Remarks
Murray Siemens, Fraser Valley Farm Direct Marketing
Association, Abbotsford, BC
9:00-9:45
Cherry Exports to Asia, a Model for Other Agriproducts?
Andre Bailey, President, Global Fruit Ltd., Creston BC
Andre is the President of the Global Fruit Ltd., the largest
private cherry marketer in Canada. BC Cherries are the
first fresh fruit to gain access to the Chinese market and
others will follow. Learn about the challenges and
opportunities with this exciting new market.
9:45-10:30
Canada's Trade Agenda – Opportunities for 2015 and
Beyond
Denis Landreville, AAFC, Ottawa, ON
Denis is Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada's lead
negotiator for regional agreements and is currently
working on the Trans-Pacific Partnership. His
presentation will provide an update on the status of this
agreement and discuss the implications for the BC
agriculture industry.
10:30 Refreshment Break
10:45-12:00
Trends and Opportunities in International Food Markets
David Hughes, Emeritus Professor, Imperial College,
London, UK
David speaks at international agriculture conferences
and seminars with great understanding and vision
concerning world food markets. He draw from his
extensive experience in the international agri-food sector
to discuss how global food markets impact you and your
business.
David Hughes, Keynote
9:10–9:30
Vineland's Hardy Rose Breeding Program
Anissa Poleatewich, Vineland Research and Innovation
Centre, ON
Hear the findings of research efforts to determine
predominant races of the black spot pathogen in Canada
and to screen breeding material for disease resistance.
9:30-10:00
PlantPoint: Smarter Irrigation Through Science
Chris Lund, Decagon Devices, Pullman, WA
Decagon's efforts to commercialize the wireless
moisture sensor network for containerized crops was
introduced at last year's show by Dr. Marc van Iersel.
PlantPoint is a user-friendly integrated hardware and
software package that offers scalable, wireless and
cost-effective irrigation management.
10:00 Refreshment Break
10:00 Refreshment Break
11:00–11:30
Sustainable Sourcing: What Does This Mean for BC
Agrifoods Producers?
Jaclyn Laic, ARDCORP, Abbotsford, BC
The scoop on how Environmental Farm Practices, OnFarm Food Safety and Traceability can help you sell more
to major food retailers.
10:00-10:30
What Is All The "Buzz:" Systemic Insecticides and
Pollinators
Raymond Cloyd, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS
The characteristics, benefits and limitations of systemic
insecticides used in nursery production. The impact of
systemic insecticides and the issues associated with
their effects on pollinators will be addressed.
10:30-11:15
Drip Irrigation of Nursery Crops
Inge Bisconer, Toro Micro-Irrigation, El Cajon, CA
There are many advantages to drip irrigation, including
improved crop quality and uniformity, better resource
use efficiency and enhanced stewardship. The use of
drip irrigation, including drip tape and dripline products,
efficiently irrigates field-grown and containerized nursery
stock.
11:15-12:00
Optimizing Your Soilless Media
Lance Lawson, 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.
David Hughes is Emeritus Professor of Food Marketing at
Imperial College London. He travels the world talking to
businesses, trade associations, governments and
conferences on global developments in the food and
drink industry. A highly sought-after speaker wherever he
goes, he has an unparalleled knowledge of global food
issues and opportunities.
9:15-10:00
Pricing, Distribution and Profitability
Andrea Gray-Grant, Gray-Grant Consulting Inc.,
Vancouver, BC
Consumer demand for local continues to be "hot". You
can maximize your business success by carefully
considering your product price, path to market and
potential for profit. Learn how to break down product
cost, maintain appropriate margins and understand the
costs associated with the distribution of your product to
retail.
10:15-11:00
Really, what is a Farmers' Market?
Jon Bell, B.C. Assoc. of Farmers' Markets, Sechelt, BC
A look at today's farmers' markets in BC, the differences
in marketing and sales, public versus private, along with
a discussion on the complex issues facing over 125
markets in rural and urban settings.
11:30-12:00
Major Food Retailer's Purchasing Criteria
Ken Clark, Overwaitea Food Group, Langley, BC
Discover what is needed to get your products listed in a
major supermarket.
BMO Room
Agri-energy & Waste Management Forum
9:30–11:00
Anaerobic Digestion Session 1: Seabreeze Farm
Building an anaerobic digester involves many different
technologies and local contractors. Through rapid-fire
presentations, learn about some of the technologies and
contractors that have contributed to Seabreeze Farm's
anaerobic digester in Delta. These presentations will
provide useful background information for the Seabreeze
Farm site visit on January 31st.
11:10–12:20
Anaerobic Digestion Session 2: Technology Updates
Anaerobic digestion technology adoption and
technological advancements are ongoing. Learn about
adoption and exciting advancements in anaerobic
digestion technology, both locally and internationally.
Friday Afternoon, January 30, 2015
Terralink Room
Direct Solutions Room
BASF Gallery
All Berries
Nursery
Field Vegetables
Chair: Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsors: Farm Credit Canada and Engage Agro
Chair: Dave Woodske, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Chair: Mike Boot, Engage Agro, Chilliwack, BC
1:00-4:00
Taking Your Lean Program to the Next Level
Dale Schattenkirk, LTS Consulting, Regina, SK
This hands-on session, led by Dale Schattenkirk and two
presenters from the region, will demonstrate how to
apply Lean tools in your specific environment. After a
quick review of some tools, you'll learn about practical
applications for the Lean method that get dramatic,
measurable results. Two tools that will be highlighted are
5S and Kanban.
1:00-2:00
Vegetable Varieties for the 2015 Season
Brian Campbell, Westcoast Seeds, Delta, BC
Leah Erickson Stoke Seeds, Delta, BC
Brian Logan, Logan-Zenner Seeds, WA
Ben Yurkiw, Agrium AT, Abbotsford, BC
1:30-1:50
Blueberry SWD Experience in 2014
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
2014 was a much better year for blueberry growers, but
still held some significant challenges late in the season.
1:50-2:10
What Has Six Years of Living with SWD Taught Us
Tom Peerbolt, Peerbolt Crop Management, Portland, OR
How to incorporate our current SWD knowledge into an
effective management program
2:10-2:35
The Challenges of Controlling Pests in Organic
Blueberries
Alan Schreiber, WA Blueberry Commission, Eltopia, WA
There is market potential for organic blueberries, but can
we control SWD and mummy berry in a coastal climate?
2:35-2:55
Yellow Nutsedge – An Increasing Weed Threat to Berry
Crops
Victoria Brookes, PARC, Agassiz, BC
This weed has been ranked as one of the world's most
difficult weeds. How to recognize and contain its spread.
2:55-3:05
Food Safety – Critical New Information for 2015
Elsie Friesen, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
More national and international regulatory changes are
on the horizon – if you are not on a food safety program,
you may not find a home for your fruit.
3:05-3:25
Evaluating New Pesticides for Insect Control in
Blueberries and Raspberries
Carolyn Teasdale, ES Cropconsult, Vancouver, BC
Learn about performance of new potential products for
aphid and weevil control
3:25-3:45
Pesticide Access – New Products and Challenges for
2015
Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
The good, the bad and the ugly in the world of berry crop
protection tools.
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 2.0
5S is a powerful solution to a problem, and so the first step
in using it is: identifying the problem you're trying to solve.
Participants will learn how to collect and document simple,
practical measures that ensure your 5S activity solves the
root problem, and has a positive impact on your business.
Dale will cover the activities from pre-work to sustaining
stages, and give each participant the opportunity to start to
plan their own improvement area.
Kanban is an inventory management system that allows
organizations to ensure they have the needed stock, when
they need it. The system ensures the right level of inventory.
There are many different types of Kanban inventory systems,
from stock cards to bins. Dale will explore the different
options, how to set each one up, and teach participants how
to calculate minimum and maximum inventory levels.
Two presenters from the region will discuss their experience
implementing 5S and Kanban projects. They will provide
visuals of how the systems worked for them and the lessons
they learned on how to sustain them.
Dale will conclude by discussing how organizations
transform themselves by using the complete Lean
methodology. He'll discuss additional examples in agriculture
and focus on how you can sustain change in your
organization's improvement journey.
2:40-3:00
Keeping Food Safe to Eat – From the Producer to the
Consumer
Alison Speirs, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
There are risks to food safety for ready-to-eat produce
from production all the way to the consumer. It is
essential for producers to take a critical look at their onfarm management and to be aware of food safety risks
to produce after it leaves the farm.
3:00-3:30
Weed Management Strategies Using Cover Crops
Mitch Hunter, Penn State U., State College, PA
Hear results from research of winter cover crops in
Pennsylvania and learn more about how diverse cover
crop mixtures can contribute to ecological weed
management in annual cropping systems.
3:30-4:00
Managing the Herbicide Mix
Grant McMillan, ICMS, Abbotsford, BC
Timely reminders on the importance of herbicide groups,
modes of action, timing, water volume, systemic vs
contact, organic herbicide options and more to make
good weed control decisions and avoid tankmix pitfalls.
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 1.0
4:00 LMHIA Business Meet
Terralink Room
Everyone Welcome!
BMO Room
Agri-energy & Waste Management Forum
Renewable energy and waste management technologies
take advantage of underutilised resources, diversify
income, manage waste and reduce costs. Key to the
success of any renewable energy or waste management
project is selecting the appropriate technology to meet
your specific on-site energy and/or waste opportunities
and challenges.
The 2015 Agri-energy & Waste Management Forum will
enable you to increase your understanding of renewable
energy and waste management technologies relevant to
you.
2:00-2:40
Taking a Good Look at Irrigation Water is a Good Idea
Pascal Delaquis, AAFC, Summerland, BC
Justin Falardeau, University of BC, Vancouver, BC
Irrigation water is a risk factor in the transmission of
verotoxigenic E. coli to growing vegetables. Efforts to
determine seasonal prevalence and characteristics of
pathogenic E. coli in surface waters and on fresh
produce can aid producers in food safety management.
1:10–1:50
The Environmental Farm Plan
Every step in the agriculture process can affect the
environment. The Environmental Farm Plan (EFP)
program, delivered by ARDCorp and funded by Growing
Forward 2, a federal-provincial-territorial initiative, is a
confidential guided process to help farmers identify onfarm environmental strengths and weaknesses. Attend
this session to learn why 4,000 BC farmers have
adopted the EFP and to find out how you can get a
customized plan for your farm at no-charge.
2:00–3:10
Nutrient and Waste Management Opportunities
With coming changes to the agricultural waste control
regulations in BC, the need for appropriate nutrient and
waste management technologies is increasing. Learn
about some of these technologies and how they might
impact agriculture in BC.
3:20–4:20
Pyrolysis Opportunities and Challenges
Pyrolysis is fast emerging as a potential technology to
convert woody materials into biochar, a highly porous
charcoal material with a high surface area. Hear how
research in BC is trying to determine the potential for
using pyrolysis within BC’s agriculture sector.
Saturday Morning, January 31, 2015
Terralink Room
FCC Loft
BASF Gallery
Blueberries
Hazelnuts
Chair: Peter Andres, BCHGA, Agassiz, BC
Organic
Chair: Rhonda Driediger, Driediger Farms, Langley, BC
Sponsors: Driediger Farms Ltd. & Berryhill Foods Inc.
9:00-9:20
Phomopsis in Blueberries-Another Victory for Science
Siva Sabaratnam, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
This disease has recently caused serious losses in
young blueberry planting, but new findings will help
growers keep it in check.
9:20-9:50
Tissue Testing to Assess Plant Nutrient Status in
Blueberry Varieties - What Have We learned?
Bernadine Strik, OSU, Corvallis, OR
Recent research has shown some interesting
differences between blueberry varieties which could
have implications for fertilizer management.
9:50-10:10
What Causes Green Fruit Drop and Can We Prevent It?
Eric Gerbrandt, UFV, Abbotsford, BC
The variety, Draper, is prone to dropping green fruit just
prior to ripening. 2014 trials showed promise in solving
this disorder.
10:10 Refreshment Break
10:25-10:55
From Planting to Maturity – Which Cultivars Rise to
the Top From a Production Perspective?
Bernadine Strik, OSU, Corvallis, OR
New research and field information on variety
performance
10:55-11:15
Towards Better BC Adapted Blueberry Varieties
Michael Dossett, BCBC, Agassiz, BC
The BC program is in its infancy, but progress in being
made on many fronts. Quality, yield and disease
resistance is being introduced into new potential
varieties.
11:15-12:00
What is Happening in the Wide World of Berries
David Hughes, Emeritus Professor, Imperial College,
London, England
David speaks at international agriculture conferences
and seminars with great understanding and vision
concerning world food markets. Learn about the many
issues driving global trends in berries and the impacts
they will surely have on your business.
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 0.25
9:00-9:10
Future of the Hazelnut Industry in BC
Peter Andres, BCHGA, Agassiz, BC
9:10-9:55
Facing Challenges of Replanting New Varieties-Part 1
Larry George, George Packing Company, Newberg, OR
A testimony of grower experience in Oregon - facing the
challenges of replanting new varieties
Chair: Gary Jones, Kwantlen Polytechnic U., Langley, BC
Sponsor: Fraser Valley Organic Producers Assoc.
9:00–9:30
Standards Maintenance - In Pursuit of Better Clarity
Susan Smith, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
The Canada Organic Standard and Permitted Substances
List are being revised. Hear about the process and
highlights of proposed amendments.
9:55-10:30
Latest BC Trial Information on New Hazelnut Varieties
Thom O'Dell and Haley Argen, Nature Tech Nursery,
Langley, BC.
Learn about the preliminary information that has been
gained from field trials with EFB resistant varieties.
9:30-10:00
Managing for Maggots and Miners
Renee Prasad, ES Cropconsult Ltd., Coquitlam, BC
Fly pests of vegetables including carrot rust fly, cabbage
root maggot and leafminer cause damage in the larval
stage. Recommendations on physical controls and
management to combat these challenging pests.
10:30 Refreshment Break
10:00 Refreshment Break
10:45-11:30
Facing Challenges of Replanting New Varieties-Part 2
Larry George, George Packing Company, Newberg, OR
Further information on new varieties with emphasis on
the market requirements of Oregon receiving stations
11:30-12:00
Report on a Hazelnut Enterprise Budget for BC
Ermias Afeworki, KPU, Richmond, BC
A look at estimated costs and returns for establishing a
Hazelnut Orchard
Refreshment Break Sponsors
• BC Blueberry Council • ES Cropconsult Ltd.
• Berryhill Foods Inc.
• Country Life in BC
• Penergetic Canada
10:10-10:40
Keeping the Door Shut on Invasive Vegetable Pests
Tracy Hueppelsheuser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Brown marmorated stink bug and Swede midge are
pests of vegetables that are on the move in other parts
of N. America. Awareness and prevention are key to
preventing problems in BC crops.
10:40-11:10
Environmental Farm Planning-A Tool to Manage
Nutrients
David Poon, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Using principles of crop utilization & soil interactions of
key crop nutrients, the Environmental Farm Planning
program can aid in nutrient management for field
vegetable crops.
11:10-12:00
Cover Crops to Achieve Multiple Farm Goals
James LaChance, Penn State U., State College, PA
Mitch Hunter, Penn State U., State College, PA
Winter cover crop research from several Pennsylvania
farms and Penn State Rock Springs Research Farm.
Issues include cover crop timing, termination, and
general management to aid in farmer insight and
adoption of cover crop mixes. Using cover crop
“cocktails” or mixtures to achieve multiple goals on the
farm, including weed suppression, nitrogen retention,
and nitrogen provisioning.
Direct Solutions Room
Agri-energy & Waste Management Forum
9:30–11:30
Legality of Agri-energy and Waste Management in BC
(hosted by MillerThomson)
Regulations play a large part of any renewable energy or
waste management project. Gain insight into relevant BC
renewable energy or waste management policies, and
learn specifics about BC's Agricultural Waste Control
Regulation, air quality and odour management
programs.
SITE VISIT Noon–4:30
Seabreeze Farm Anaerobic Digester Site Visit
(sponsored by Ch-Four Biogas)
See BC's newest anaerobic digester. Seabreeze Farm's
anaerobic digester converts 24,000 tonnes of manure
and off-farm organics each year into over 2 million cubic
meters of pipeline quality natural gas. See this
technology firsthand to learn how it can be used to
positively impact farming in BC. The Seabreeze Farm site
visit will include a BBQ lunch, coffee and tea.
Saturday Afternoon, January 31, 2015
Terralink Room
Direct Solutions Room
BASF Gallery
Blueberries
Hazelnuts
Organic
Chair: Mark Sweeney, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Sponsors: BC Blueberry Council & Berryhill Foods Inc.
Chair: Peter Andres, BCHGA, Agassiz, BC
Chair: Harvie Snow, FVOPA, Delta, BC
Sponsor: Fraser Valley Organic Producers Assoc
1:30-2:15
The Blueberry Market in 2015 – Implications for BC
Growers – Panel
Jesse Brar, Golden Eagle Farms, Pitt Meadows, BC
Jason Smith, Fraser Berry Farms, Abbotsford, BC
Havey Krause, South Alder Farms, Abbotsford, BC
The BC and global crop broke another record in 2014
with more fruit to come in 2015. What do BC growers
and packers need to do to survive and thrive in this
breaking blue wave.
2:15-2:45
How Effective are our Fungicides in Controlling
Botrytis?
Tobin Peever, WSU, Pullman, WA
Recent surveys in Washington pointed to concerns with
Botrytis resistance to popular fungicides. What is the
current situation in BC?
2:45-3:05
Evaluating Techniques for Better Blueberry
Pollination*
Elizabeth Elle, SFU, Burnaby, BC
Pollination and fruit set continues to be one of the major
limiting factors in blueberry production. Research is
underway to assess ways to achieve better set.
3:05-3:25
Weevil Management in Blueberries
Tracy Hueppelheusser, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Weevils continue to decimate many BC blueberry fields.
Learn to recognize the signs and nip them in the bud.
3:25-3:45
Lessons Learned from a Seven Year Nitrogen
Fertilization Experiment
Tom Forge, PARC, Summerland, BC
Key findings from the long-term blueberry trials at the
Agassiz Research Station
Pesticide Re-Certification Credits: 1.0
1:15-2:30
BC Hazelnut Industry Growth and Revitalization
Initiative
Darrell Toma, Toma & Bouma CMC, Edmonton, AB
What does the hazelnut industry in BC need to do to
thrive and prosper? An interactive session with input
from existing and potential growers.
2:30- 3:00
Business Meeting (AGM) of the BC Hazelnut Growers
Association
Everybody, members and non-members, welcome to
attend-reports, financial statement,and election of
officers
3:00-3:15
Wrap-up Session and Closing
Peter Andres, BCHGA president, Agassiz, BC
Education Session Sponsors
• BC Blueberry Council
• BC Potato & Vegetable Growers Association
• BC Greenhouse Growers Association
• Berryhill Foods Inc.
• Driediger Farms Ltd.
• Engage Agro
• Farm Credit Canada
• Flowers Canada
• Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association
• Growing Forward 2,
a Federal-Provincial-Territorial Initiative
• Raspberry Industry Development Council
• United Flower Growers
1:30-2:00
Keeping Food Safe to Eat – From the Producer to the
Consumer
Alison Speirs, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
There are risks to food safety for ready-to-eat produce
from production all the way to the consumer. It is
essential for producers to take a critical look at their onfarm management and to be aware of food safety risks
to produce after it leaves the farm.
2:00-2:30
Nitrate Accumulation in Vegetables – Something to
Avoid
Mike Bomford, Kwantlen Polytechnic University,
Richmond, BC
Nitrate is a nutrient for growing vegetables but not for
the consumer. Research shows links between warm
temperatures, low light growing conditions and nitrate
accumulation in produce; recommendations for
management.
2:30-3:00
Dung Beetles – Nature's Pooper-Scoopers
Matt Jones, Washington State University, Pullman, WA
Dung beetles play an important ecological role in
removing feces above ground and in killing pathogens in
the feces that they feed on. Entomologists at WSU are
investigating what the potential is for dung beetles to
suppress harmful foodborne pathogens in the soil before
they spread to humans.
3:00-3:45
Post-Harvest Handling of the Vegetable Mix -Tips to
Success – Grower Panel
Facilitator: Susan Smith, BCAGRI, Abbotsford, BC
Lydia Ryall, Cropthorne, Delta, BC
Andrew Arkenstyn-Vogler, Crisp Organics, Abbotsford
Harvie Snow, Snow Farms, Delta, BC
Bruce Wisbey, Wisbey Veggies, Yarrow, BC
Registration Information:
Register ON-LINE at www.agricultureshow.net
or download the PDF registration form online
Registration fees: $79.00 (by January 12) or $110.00 (after January 12)
2014/2015 LMHIA
Board of Directors
President: James Bergen
Vice-President: Jordan Krause
Secretary: Susan Smith
Treasurer: Mark Sweeney
Andrew Arkestyn-Vogler
Mike Boot
Trevor Harris
Jeff Husband
Brian Johnston
Alf Krause
Sid Kwantes
Ed McKim
Grant McMillan
Heather Meberg
David Mutz
Lydia Ryall
Kerry Seale
Harvie Snow
Ria van Eekelen
Bruce Wisbey
Your Course Registration Fee includes:
• Annual Membership in the LMHIA
• Attendance in any or all educational sessions
• 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
Jennifer Curtis
Michael Dossett
Sheila Fitzpatrick
Elsie Friesen
Shawn Halter
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