By Clint Thompson
Blueberry producers should mark their calendars for Wednesday, Oct. 25, for the annual Florida Blueberry Growers Association Fall Conference and Trade Show at Bonnet Springs Park in Lakeland, Florida.
Doug Phillips, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) blueberry Extension coordinator, discussed the significance of the meeting this fall and why producers and industry leaders should plan to attend.
“We’ve got some really good presentations lined up, both from UF faculty, from growers and from other folks who are involved in the industry. I think there’s going to be some good educational material, a good chance for discussions among growers,” Phillips said. “Then consider the number of exhibitors that we’re going to have from areas across the industry. I think it’s a good opportunity for growers to go through face-to-face discussions and questions with the exhibitors on existing products, new products, just to make sure they’re aware of some of the things that are out there and to get their questions answered if they have some.”
The day-long conference will also provide networking opportunities for growers.
“We had that series of summer meetings across four different counties, and that was a great opportunity for networking in a smaller setting. This is certainly the largest gathering of Florida blueberry growers of the year together. It’s a chance for growers to talk to other growers in their region and not in their region, and just see some of the issues they’ve been having and how they’ve addressed those issues. What are their thoughts on different things?” Phillips added.
Those interested in attending can click here to register.