AU walnut growers gaining practical knowledge

As the Walnut Industry expands in Australia, a need to build capacity within the industry arises. Technology transfer is an integral part of the strategic plan of the Australian Walnut Industry Association Inc as a way of building the grower knowledge base.

“Growers learning from other growers, and linking that with practical presentations „in the field‟ from researchers ensures that the Australian Walnut Industry can expand the production of high quality walnuts for both the domestic and international markets” said Ms Carol Kunert, President, Australian Walnut Industry Association Inc.

Current growers are seeking additional information to assist in improving nut yields and quality, and new growers are seeking support as they look to develop new orchards and walnut businesses. Many of these growers will be descending on Swansea, Tasmania to participate in a comprehensive technical program and orchard visit on Saturday 17th and Sunday 18th January 2015.

“The Walnut orchard at Swansea is one of the older orchards in Tasmania, and is located in a cooler and wetter environment than most other walnut growing regions in Australia” said Dr Michael Lang, Principal Scientist, Walnuts Australia. Technical presentations will be given by Dr Kathy Evans (Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture), Dr Michael Lang (Walnuts Australia) and Peter Targett (2014 Honours student).

“The opportunity to visit Walnuts Australia‟s orchard in Tasmania, and look at and discuss practical topics like Irrigation scheduling, Frost management, Pest and diseases, Light interception, Cultivar selection and Vegetative and fruit growth is an important part of the technology transfer program being undertaken by the Australian Walnut Industry Association” said Ms Kunert.

For more information:
Trevor Ranford
Australian Walnut Industry Association
Tel: +61 0417 809 172
Email: tco@walnut.net.au
www.walnut.net.au