The 2012 ASHS Annual Conference

Objective(s):
1) To reflect upon the last 10 years set a foundation to strengthen research activities moving into the future; 2) To engage horticultural researchers traditionally not working in organic and to encourage more research groups to address organic issues; and 3) to create a networking opportunity for researchers to discuss future research ideas.

This symposium, organized by the Organic Working Group at the 10 year anniversary of the inception of National Organic Program, will provide a past, present, and future overview of organic research, extension, and education.   Invited speakers with strong programs in organic research, extension, and teaching will present in several key areas related to organic vegetable and fruit production, providing both a historical overview as well as specific examples from their own programs. Industry representatives will provide perspective from outside of the uvniersity system. Confirmed speakers and topics include: Mark Lipson, Perspective from Washington DC; Mary Peet, Organic Research Funding Perspectives; Kathleen Delate, Organic Vegetable Production; Curt Rom, Organic Fruit Production; Francisco Diez-Gonzales, Organic Food Safety; Eric Brennan, Organic Vegetable Systems Research; and Jim Myers, Organic Vegetable Breeding.

The ultimate goal of this symposium is several-fold: 1) to reflect upon the last 10 years set a foundation to strengthen research, teaching, and outreach activities moving into the future; 2) to engage horticultural researchers and educators traditionally not working in organic agriculture; and 3) to create a networking opportunity for researchers to discuss future research and education ideas.