What was it all about?

The aim of this project was to provide a whole of industry approach to the apple and pear industry in South Australia, to understand local growing conditions and assist growers to address the particular challenges that they face.

The project commenced in July 2013 and was completed in August 2016.

To assist SA growers, an industry development officer:

• Engaged with growers to determine local issues requiring industry assistance
• Assessed the information needs of SA growers and provided appropriate capacity building and training programs
• Developed and implemented a strategic research, development and extension plan based on local needs
• Provided information on new developments, products and research outcomes
• Collaborated with local Natural Resource Management groups and Environmental Departments to work towards sustainable agricultural production
• Liaised with grower services providers such as pest and disease monitoring services, to ensure all growers had access to support.

Information was sent to growers in many forms including newsletters, email bursts, text message reminders, crop walks and workshops, face to face communication and a case study and YouTube clip.

The project met all of the intended outcomes including improved adoption of best management practices by growers, and greater grower awareness of new technologies, industry and market trends

It was rated as highly valuable to the South Australian apple and pear industry.

ACT NOW:

Watch the video made by the project team on tips for managing water in orchards during summer on YouTube.