| |
Commercial Horticulture - Ways of Building Your Knowledge | |
| |
From the May 18, 2009 Issue of Agri-News | |
|
| |
|
|
| |
.
"A wise person seeks out chances to learn, rather than waiting for a chance experience to teach them," says Robert Spencer, commercial horticulture specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development, Stettler. "At the same time, in my opinion, when you pour off a little bit of your own knowledge, you increase your capacity for knowledge, to your net benefit."
When it comes to increasing their knowledge or experience, producers may wonder where they can get helpful information. "There are lots of possible sources available," says Spencer. "The first thing to look at is targeted courses. Every year, there are courses, information sessions, workshops and conferences offered by government, industry associations and organizations, or combinations of the above. Whatever the event, each offers a chance for producers to increase their individual knowledge and network with other producers."
Many events are offered annually, at or near the same time of year. For example, the Berry (& Vegetable) School has been held at the beginning of March for many years.
The second information gathering option is reading. There are many useful reference books, factsheets, newsletters and websites from different sources. In Alberta, one such information source is Hort Snacks, a monthly e-newsletter targeted at direct market horticulture crop producers that started in January 2009. Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development also has many free and paid publications available by calling toll-free at 1-800-292-5697 or searching the website at www.agriculture.alberta.ca
"The third, and perhaps the best method for producers to gain information is through networking with their peers," says Spencer. "Many experienced growers will tell you that they spent some time visiting and learning from other operations when they got started. Most producers in this industry are open to sharing and exchanging knowledge and experiences with others.
"Whether you decide to take the time to arrange a visit with someone in the industry or attend workshops, field days or other courses, you will come out with more knowledge than you started with. Whatever information gathering method you use, you won't regret the time you spend gathering and exchanging knowledge with others."
A field day for fruit and vegetable producers is being organized in the Innisfail/Olds area on June 13, 2009. Further details are being posted to the Alberta Farm Fresh website at www.albertafarmfresh.com
Contact:
Robert Spencer
301-FARM (3276)
The contents of this page are no longer available.
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
For more information about the content of this document, contact Rita Splawinski.
This information published to the web on May 13, 2009.
|
|