Features Production Vegetables
Explore Alberta horticulture

December 4, 2012 – An introductory workshop exploring the opportunities for direct-market fruit and vegetable production is being held in five locations in Alberta during January and February.

The workshop is designed to provide industry specific information and data to Albertans interested in the horticulture industry. The workshop is also a great way to connect to resources and support networks, which are very valuable as new producers move forward.

A tentative agenda has been set for each of the five locations and includes:

• Trends and opportunities in fruits and vegetables – state and size of industry, challenges, market and consumer buying trends
• Marketing channels – options and layers; direct-market channel options
• Key production considerations – land, water, equipment and labour
• Cost of production examples and data
• Producer experiences – their stories and what they’ve learned from their experiences
• Regional rules and requirements
• Basics of business planning – components of a business plan, market research, cost of production, finances and resources

The workshop locations, dates and contact information:

• Lacombe (Lacombe Memorial Centre) – January 22, contact Lacombe County at 403-782-6601
• Veteran (Veteran Community Centre) – January 23, contact Special Areas #4 office at 493-577-3523
• Millet (Millet Agriplex Banquet Hall)– January 24, contact Leduc County at 780-955-3555
• Lac Ste. Anne County – January 31, 2013, contact Lac Ste. Anne County at 1-866-880-5722
• MD of Foothills – February 7, 2013, contact MD of Foothills at 1-403-652-2341