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

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

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