Features Fruit Production
International Watermelon Conference draws praise

April 13, 2011, Miami,
FL – More than 120 watermelon professionals gathered at the 2^nd
International Watermelon Conference in Miami Beach, FL, recently to discuss the
challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

April 13, 2011, Miami,
FL – More than 120 watermelon professionals gathered at the 2^nd
International Watermelon Conference in Miami Beach, FL, recently to discuss the
challenges and opportunities facing the industry.

The three-day
conference, organized by vegetable seed supplier Nunhems, brought together
industry experts from watermelon growers and marketers to researchers and trade
groups to discuss vital topics such as exporting, food safety and retail
marketing.

The conference, dubbed
the “Americas Summit,” drew attendees from as far away as Brazil and Spain,
with a mix of speakers, tours and networking opportunities targeted towards
North, Central and South American growers.

The conference kicked
off with an opening reception in Miami Beach. The next day was filled with a full day of
information-rich speakers and presentations, with several attendees able to
take advantage of the opportunity to earn American Society of Agronomy
Certified Crop Adviser continuing education credits.

On the final day,
attendees enjoyed the rare ability to tour crucial steps in the produce supply
chain, including a behind-the-scenes tour of the Port of Miami. The event
provided many opportunities for socialization and networking, including an
elegant dinner cruise off the coast of scenic Miami Beach.

Even with its full slate
of learning activities, many at the International Watermelon Conference noted
that it was the attendees that were the strength of the event.

“It was very
impressive,” said John Lapide, attendee and owner of South Carolina-based
watermelon shipper Melon 1, Inc. “A good group of speakers, an excellent venue;
well worth the trip to Miami.”