RD&E has shifted from Australian government to private sector providers over the last few decades. This requires new approaches to public and private partnerships. A four-year program was designed that identified relevant expertise, whether grower, consultant, researcher or international expert, and relevant grower topics presented by annual 'road show' campaigns. Growers were surveyed on the design and effectiveness of the program. Growers indicated that small regional groups work best, but they need to be assisted by advisors and researchers. Growers also indicated they should have the ability to be self-directed. Growers want on-farm field days and informal and formal information sessions. Results show that multiple research and extension methods are required to deliver a broad range of priority information to a diverse range of growers and regions. Almost all of the 308 growers (62% of the total industry) who were surveyed indicated they would participate in a future national development program. This program has enabled information flow between growers, consultants/advisors and researchers which facilitated the adoption of new ideas and technology.
History
Publication title
Proceedings of 8th International Cherry Symposium
Volume
1235
Editors
K Beppu, H Bessho, T Haji, H Yaegaki, and D Matsumoto
Pagination
155-160
ISSN
0567-7572
Department/School
Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture (TIA)
Publisher
ISHS Acta Horticulturae
Place of publication
Japan
Event title
Acta Horticulturae
Event Venue
Yamagata
Date of Event (Start Date)
2017-06-05
Date of Event (End Date)
2017-06-09
Rights statement
Copyright 2019 The International Society for Horticultural Science. The original publication is available at www.actahort.org.
Repository Status
Open
Socio-economic Objectives
Hardwood plantations; Expanding knowledge in the environmental sciences