Chile: Ñuble province leads berry production with Indap's support
The event, which took place at the Society of Commercial Workers, was organised by Rodrigo Figueroa, Head of the Department of Plant Sciences from the Catholic University.
As indicated by the regional manager of INDAP'S berries section, Jorge Salvo, this training is part of a working strategy seeking to improve productivity and quality aspects about raspberries. "Certain flaws were detected in the production process of berries, which led INDAP to promote a high-level training program, with professional experts who have dealt with genetics, weed control and crop management, sparking great interest amongst growers."
Jorge Salvo mentioned that INDAP has around 2,000 small raspberry growers on record from the Ñuble province, accounting for 90% of the regional production. "The majority of raspberry producers are located in the municipalities of San Carlos, Coihueco and Ñiquén, and perceive this crop as a real opportunity to produce and trade, especially because it is a sector in the hands of small growers, with high profitability indicators."
Small berry producers are supported by INDAP through the Prodesal program, Technical Advisory Service and Production Partnership Program. Close to 20% of all production linkages fall under the berries category.
The training for raspberry producers will take place throughout the entire year, with the aim to continue improving the sector, which is considered an exclusivity of smaller producers.
Source: portal.chillanonline.cl