AHDB has urged agronomists from the cereals, oilseeds and potato sectors to attend its annual conference in December and ‘join the development of an integrated strategy to help the industry tackle the increasing challenge of managing pests, weeds and diseases.’
According to the levy board, the event will ‘provide a platform for agronomists to hear from scientists, researchers and PhD students to influence the development of a strategy and build relationships with the wider industry.’
Head of AHDB’s Arable Knowledge Exchange team Tim Isaac commented, “This year’s Agronomists’ Conference will provide an opportunity for agronomists and growers to hear about and discuss the latest developments in IPM. It will also be a great networking opportunity for all those involved in the crop sector.”
The morning sessions of both days of the conference will focus on crop protection, with the potato agenda including the latest research on blight, as well as lessons from the continent: Leendert Molendijk from Wageningen University and Graeme Byers from Tayto Group will discuss PCN management in the Netherlands and potential lessons for British growers.
The afternoon session will focus on crop nutrients and resource use including organic amendments and soil health. Desiccation, nitrogen and bio-stimulants will also be explored.
Workshops on both days will explore using crop varieties as a foundation of IPM, use of bio-pesticides, irrigation and the latest research on potato storage options following the loss of CIPC.
The Agronomists’ Conference takes place from 3 to 4 December. For more details visit https://ahdb.org.uk/events/agconf19
Picture caption: Tim Isaac