Bramble Research Group Seeking Research Proposals

The North American Bramble Growers Research Foundation (NABGRF), the research branch of the North American Raspberry and Blackberry Association (NARBA), is seeking proposals for bramble research for 2012. All bramble proposals will be considered; however, the following specific priorities have been established for this round of funding:

Pest Management Strategies

– Management and biology of Spotted Wing Drosophila (SWD)
– Management and biology of Brown Marmorated Stink Bug (BMSB)
– Management of Agrobacterium tumefaciens (crown gall)
– Evaluation of new insecticides for blackberry and raspberry production

Production Efficiency and Profitability
– Management of blackberries and raspberries in tunnels (pruning, training and trellis systems)
– Postharvest handling for small farmers

Cultivar Development and Testing
– Germplasm development

Special Needs
– Marketing

Since 1999, NABGRF has funded a total of 59 proposals totaling $124,756. Funding for individual projects is expected to range from $2000 to $5000.

Proposals will be reviewed by the Research Committee of the NABGRF at the next North American Raspberry & Blackberry Association annual meeting, Jan. 16, 2012 in Sandusky, OH. The Research Committee will forward their recommendations to the NABGRF Board of Trustees. Final funding decisions are made by the Board of Trustees. Awards will be sent out in February 2012. For more information, email either of the NABGRF Research Co-Coordinators, Gina Fernandez and Jeff Chandler.