Oct 8, 2015

Michigan Blueberry Pollination Workshops Nov. 4

Michigan State University Extension and the Xerces Society are hosting a pair of Blueberry Pollination Workshops on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at the Trevor Nichols Research Center. These workshops are designed to give growers a more complete understanding and better control of pollination during blueberry bloom.

MSU Extension Educator Mark Longstroth and MSU researchers Rufus Isaacs, Jason Gibbs, and Meghan Milbrath will cover the latest research updates on the pollination needs and common crop pollinators of Michigan blueberries, practical issues concerning managed honeybees, and best management practices for improving pollination and supporting bee pollinators on blueberry farms. Participants will learn how to identify major blueberry pollinators and follow a field protocol to determine whether their fields are receiving adequate pollination during bloom.

Both workshops are identical, with one in the morning (9:30 a.m. to noon) and one in the evening (6:30 – 9 p.m.). Light refreshments will be provided.

There is no charge for these meetings, but please RSVP by registering using the MSU Extension Events Management System to allow an accurate count of refreshments and materials. Three RUP credits will be available to attendees. These workshops are sponsored by Project Integrated Crop Pollination.

Workshop location

Trevor Nichols Research Center

6237 124^th Avenue, Fennville, MI 49408

Contact: Mark Longstroth; 269-873-8983