SFF Project Summary
Nelson Pipfruit Project
Sustainable Farming Fund Search Results
I am sorry, but your search for "grant number = ^01/117" matched no projects in the database , please try again.
Project Outline
The pipfruit industry has been going through major change with the move to deregulated exports and international markets in over supply. The markets are demanding improved quality, product traceability, food safety and commitment to sustainable and environmentally safe practices . There has been a drop in on orchard profitability to a point where a number growers may have to leave the industry.
The project will provide a framework for the Nelson pipfruit community to maintain high levels of quality pipfruit production that meet food safety requirements of our customers, and maintaining social responsibility of orchard practices.
There are five key areas to the project
- Food Safety: To minimise spray residues, and improve product traceability and sustainability of environmental resources.
- Water Resources: To provide a framework for efficient use of water and to optimise water allocation and fruit size.
- Fruit Quality: To provide information to growers to improve harvest decisions which will in turn improve fruit quality and storage ability.
- Production Performance: To provide growers with financial and production based benchmarks that will be useful tools to aid decision making to maximize financial performance of orchard blocks.
- Communication: To provide timely and effective communication to growers of key trends in the growing season through a network of orchard business groups and through newsletters and internet communication.
Progress to Date
There are currently three orchard business groups operating and another one being formed. These groups meet on a regular basis to discuss and examine current on orchard production issues. the meeting are structured and are facilitated by a consultant.
