IFTA Gives Awards

The International Fruit Tree Association handed out several awards at its banquet March 2, part of the association’s 53rd annual conference in Grand Rapids, Mich.

Inducted into the IFTA Hall of Fame for 2010 was the late Robert F. Carlson, represented by his three daughters. Evan Milburn also was inducted, for his many years of leadership in the organization.

The IFTA Award for Innovation was presented to Phil Brown, from Phil Brown’s Welding, for his dedication to producing products and tools growers need.

Michigan State University Extension’s Phil Schwallier was given the award for Service to the Industry.

The newest award presented was named after one of the Hall of Fame inductees. The Robert F. Carlson Lecturer award went to New Zealander John Palmer for his presentation on light interception and dry matter production.

Cornell’s Alison DeMarree was named the IFTA Extension Educator of the Year for her work on maximizing economic concerns with planting techniques and orchard structure.

Duane Greene of the University of Massachusetts was named the IFTA Researcher of the Year for his work on a growth model that identifies fruit that will persist until harvest with a 99 percent rate of accuracy. Due to his schedule, this award was presented the day before the banquet.