Members of the South Australian vegetable industry will have the chance to hear from leading Australian researcher, Dr John Cumming of Infotech Research, at an EnviroVeg Information Session tomorrow.

Dr Cumming will discuss enhanced energy efficiency for vegetable farms, the benefits of energy audits, and economic initiatives aimed at reducing costs related to energy use.

Arranged by AUSVEG as part of the EnviroVeg Program, the workshop will be held on Wednesday 27 August from 2:30pm – 4:40pm in Virginia, South Australia.

“The workshop will provide South Australian vegetable growers, agronomists and industry service providers with a valuable opportunity to hear about the latest research findings on these issues, and to discuss how these can be integrated into their crop management practices, directly with the experts,” said AUSVEG Environment Coordinator, Tim Shue.

AUSVEG is the leading horticultural body representing Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.

Mr Darren Brewer and Mr Matt Lloyd from Netafim will join the workshop to present on the use of drip irrigation in greenhouse and field production.

The AUSVEG EnviroVeg Program aims to raise awareness of environmental best practice, providing practical R&D information to Australian vegetable producers to deliver strong benefits for their operations.

“With the industry facing a host of challenges, growers are now more than ever looking to adopt new farming practices that will help boost productivity, and ultimately, long-term viability,” said Mr Shue.

AUSVEG Biosecurity Coordinator Mr Dean Schrieke will present at the information session regarding on-farm biosecurity and practical measures growers can implement to prevent pest and disease incursions on their property. AUSVEG Environment Coordinator Mr Tim Shue will provide an update on the EnviroVeg program.

Those interested in attending the workshop are asked to contact AUSVEG on (03) 9882 0277 or info@ausveg.com.au to register. The workshop will be catered and is free to attend for all vegetable levy payers and other industry stakeholders.

This project has been funded by Horticulture Australia Limited using the National Vegetable Levies and matched funding from the Australian Government.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Tim Shue, Environment Coordinator, AUSVEG; Phone: (03) 9882 0277 Mobile: 0404 799 166 E-mail: tim.shue@ausveg.com.au