West Virginia University’s Organic Research Farm will host its annual field day from 1 – 7 p.m. on Aug. 15.

Hosted by the Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design and WVU Extension, the event introduces new research and highlights ongoing projects in organic production methods through intensive workshops and organized or self-guided tours of the farm.

WVU’s Organic Farm is among the largest certified organic research farms in the nation dedicated to teaching, research and outreach. It’s a living laboratory linking scientific discovery with applications supporting an increasing number of organic growers and gardeners.

“The needs of organic growers are constantly evolving and our research helps address the new opportunities and emerging problems they face,” said Jim Kotcon, associate professor plant pathology. “We enjoy putting together this event every year and hope participants benefit from our efforts.”

Workshops led by WVU faculty and graduate students will provide overviews of soil management and quality, pest identification and control measures including insects, diseases and weeds, and livestock and pasture management. New trap-crop experiments for insect and plant disease control will be among the tour highlights.

“We invite everyone who has an interest in organic production to join us,” Kotcon said. “This is a great opportunity to bring growers and researchers together to understand the challenges confronting successful organic producers and to learn about some of the innovative solutions developed at WVU.”

Gates open at 1 p.m. with workshops beginning at 1:30 p.m. Guided tours begin at 4 p.m. Dinner featuring organic produce grown on the farm will be served at 6 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is appreciated.

To register, e-mail plantandsoil@mail.wvu.edu or contact Tessy Warnick at 304-293-2961.

-WVU-

law/07/11/13

CONTACT: David Belesky, Research Assistant Professor
304-293-2792, dpbelesky@mail.wvu.edu

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