Southeast Fruit And Vegetable Conference Focuses On Food Safety

Posted by Paul Rusnak|October 18, 2013

Growers of peaches, berries, vegetables, and other crops should mark their calendars for the Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference, taking place in Savannah, GA, from Jan. 9-12. The annual gathering features a variety of discussions and presentations, some of which are crop-specific and many others that are critical for all producers.

Here’s a brief review of some of the educational topics and tracks that may be of interest:
• Peach growers can hear about the latest research in insect and disease management, as well as new varieties and rootstocks developed specifically for the Southeast
• An update on berry growers’ experiences with the spotted wing drosophila, a problematic pest for growers across the country
• Blueberry breeding updates, as well as new rootstocks and their tolerance to soil diseases
• Financial planning and business operations, including estate planning.

With the looming introduction of the Food Safety Modernization Act, as well as the Produce Safety Rule, the food safety portion of this year’s conference is also a must-attend for all growers. Leaders from the United Fresh Produce Association, Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, and university Extension will talk about how the new upcoming rules, especially risk management and water regulations, will affect you. In addition, there will be a big focus on smaller growing operations, with take-home tools on risk assessment, as well as how to determine which audit is best for your farm.

For more information on the Southeast Regional Fruit and Vegetable Conference, including a comprehensive schedule of events and a list of companies who will be at the ever-popular trade show, go to www.gfvga.org.