Managing an orchard can be incredibly rewarding, but for small landholders just embarking on such a development, it can be a very complex operation.
Small landholders are invited to attend a free orchard management workshop hosted by Department of Agriculture and Food’s Small Landholder Information Service on 4 August. This workshop will take landholders through the fundamental issues of establishing and managing an orchard and selling the end product. The day will begin with a series of presentations from department staff, RSM Bird Cameron chartered accountant Kingsley Smith and Boyanup Farmers Market Manager Graham McClare and conclude with a tour of a local orchard. “Many small landholders are interested in producing fruit, however very few are aware of the issues that can arise while managing an orchard,” department Small Landholder Information Service manager Yolandee Jones said. |
“The orchard management workshop will take participants though the basics of production, including what to grow and the typical land and water requirements.”
Department development officer Steve McCoy will provide information on managing an organic orchard and how to become certified organic, while senior research officer Stewart Learmonth will discuss pest management.
“The workshop will also highlight the need to develop a streamlined, results orientated, business and marketing strategy to minimise the time and effort involved in planning, managing and selling fruit,” Ms Jones said.
The workshop will be held at the Donnybrook Recreation Centre from 9am (8:30am registration) and conclude after the orchard tour at 3pm.
RSVP’s for the orchard management workshop are required before Wednesday 1 August by phoning Jodie Bowling 02 9780 6213 or emailing small_landholder@agric.wa.gov.au Register early as places are limited.