Grow Organics to Inspire, Enthuse and Educate

Want to know more about organic production and be part of a long-term solution in the primary industry?

Bay of Plenty’s largest tertiary institution Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology is teaming up with kiwifruit and avocado packing specialists Apata to bring the Grow Organics event to Tauranga next month.

The free event will feature guest speakers including Nicole Masters from Integrity Soils and Dr Steven Wratten discussing science-based biodiversity, as well as a panel featuring representatives from the local organic sectors.

Toi Ohomai Organics Tutor Ruth McLean says the purpose of the event is to inspire, enthuse and educate existing  growers and those considering transitioning to organic certification. This includes kiwifruit and avocados producers as well livestock farmers and market gardeners.

Farmers and growers are often working in isolation dealing with challenges of each season.

“This event is a chance for those in organic sector to lift their gaze, look at the bigger picture, how they can improve, and what support is around to do that. It’s also an opportunity to swop ideas with other growers and farmers, and even suppliers, scientists and soil consultants.

“Some may be new to growing, some may be considering organic certification for the first time.  For experienced growers, keeping an eye on what’s new, on continual improvement, shows up in production results.”

The event will be held on 12 February at The Atrium at Toi Ohomai’s Windermere Campus from 9am to 3.30pm. It will also feature an organic market where providers and industry will have products and services for sale and on display.