Farmers are about to see first-hand some of the latest advances that will affect food production, as the Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association’s Fall Conference will take place Nov. 19 and 20 at the Clanton Conference and Performing Arts Center.

Exhibitors from throughout the nation will be on hand to showcase some of the latest research advancements and trends in crop production.

“This conference combines practical on-farm, hands-on training with field demonstration tours, educational sessions, grower networking discussions, a grower equipment and supplies swap, and our largest exhibitor trade show to date,” Regional Extension Agent Gary Gray said.

A slate of events are scheduled for both days, beginning Thursday, as producers will tour the fruit production and nursery operation at Petals from the Past Nursery and U-Pick in Jemison.

Also included is a visit to the Chilton Research and Extension Center to learn more about ongoing research into fruit production and various innovations in pest management.

“Fruit and vegetable producers are a valuable part of the state’s economy,” Dr. Ayanava Majumdar, commercial horticulture program coordinator with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System said. “We want to reach them with the quality farming information that they need,”

Dr. Powell Smith, an Extension Entomologist at Clemson University will hold workshops offering recommendations for spotted wing drosophila, a devastating new insect pest attacking blackberries, blueberries and strawberries across the nation.

An equipment and supplies swap will take place as well as grower-networking sessions. The trade show will include the latest technology and farm equipment from a wide variety of exhibitors looking to showcase their products.

Those interested in attending the conference are encouraged to register online through Sunday, due to limited seating. On-site registration will begin at 7:30 a.m. Thursday and will be followed by a general session and tours at 8 a.m.

For more information regarding the event, you can contact Ann Chambliss at thameae@auburn.edu or Jackie Cooper at jjcoop61@bellsouth.net.

See the full agenda and online registration on the association’s website at www.aces.edu/go/560