“FRESH APPROACHES TO FERTILIZING TECHNIQUES” REFLECTS THEME OF NOVEMBER 12-13 CONFERENCE IN MODESTO, CALIFORNIA

SACRAMENTO – “Fresh Approaches to Fertilizing Techniques” is the theme for this year’s conference on November 12-13, 2008 at the Doubletree Hotel in Modesto, California.  The California Department of Food and Agriculture’s (CDFA) and the Western Plant Health Association (WPHA) are teaming up to hold a two-day symposium combining the 16th Annual Fertilizer Research and Education Conference and the WPHA Central Valley Region Nutrient Seminar.

The conference program is geared toward a wide range of agriculturalists, including agricultural supply and service consultants and advisors; growers; university extension specialists; and local, state and national governmental agency personnel.  A panel of speakers will show how groundbreaking fertilizer research can be integrated into agricultural practices.  Presenters will provide general and technical information, current research data, and practical applications for each of four key agricultural topics:

• “Managing Micro- and Macronutrients” (timing; sources; cost-effectiveness)
• “Keeping Nutrients in Their Place” (deficiency to excessiveness)
• “Understanding Organic Fertilizer” (basics; organic science; optimal use)
• “Managing Nutrients of Regional Crops” (cherry; citrus; winegrapes; almond; pistachio; rice; alfalfa)

Certified Crop Adviser and Pest Control Adviser continuing education units will be available.
Early conference registration, postmarked by October 31, 2008, is $75 per day or $135 for both days; fees are waived for currently enrolled students.  After October 31, registration fees are $85 per day or $160 for both days; students’ fees are $10 per day. 

Conference registration and additional information is available through the website:
http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/is/fflders/frep.html; or by contacting:

California Department of Food and Agriculture
Fertilizer Research and Education Program
1220 “N” Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
E-mail: frep@cdfa.ca.gov
Telephone: (916) 445-0444
Fax: (916) 445-2171

The CDFA Fertilizer Research and Education Program coordinates and funds research and projects that advance the environmentally safe and agronomically sound use and handling of fertilizer materials. 

Western Plant Health Association represents the interests of fertilizer and crop protection manufacturers and retailers, as well as biotechnology providers in California, Arizona and Hawaii. WPHA promotes environmental stewardship and sound agronomic practices, effectively communicates industry issues, engages in legislative and regulatory affairs and facilitates member and industry relations.