Biocontrols Conference to Feature Cannabis Workshop and Farm Tours
February 16, 2019 
Dealing with insects and disease in cannabis is not like pest management in any other crop. In a half-day workshop following the conclusion of the Biocontrols USA West Conference & Expo in Portland, OR, in March, current and prospective cannabis growers will learn about the tools and techniques you can use to tackle your most pressing pest challenges.
Information in the workshop is being presented by Suzanne Wainwright-Evans of Buglady Consulting and Matthew Krause, Biological Program Manager and Plant Pathologist at BioWorks, Inc. Attendees will learn to identify the most common pests found in cannabis. Wainwright-Evans and Krause will focus on not only the different life stages of the pests, but also the damage they cause and how to scout for them. In addition, they’ll take a look at common disease issues in cannabis production. Discussions will include the life cycle of pathogens, along with options for control.
Management tools from biological control agents to bioinsecticides, biofungicides, and cultural practices will be covered throughout the workshop, which is designed with the needs of cannabis growers in mind, providing tools they can take back to their operations and implement right away.
Pre-Conference Tour Set for March 13
Attendees who want a firsthand look at how biological control and sustainable production methods are being used in specialty crops by some of the Pacific Northwest’s leading growers and researchers can sign up for a tour prior to the start of the Biocontrols West Conference.
Featured stops on the tour include:
• Terra Nova Nurseries, to see how growers incorporate biocontrol at this leading producer of ornamentals
• Siri & Son Farms, to learn how this Oregon vegetable grower puts biocontrol to work in its organic production
• The Oregon Hophouse, to see how hops are grown and how sustainable production methods, including biocontrol, are an important part of the plan
• Oregon State University’s North Willamette Research and Extension Center, to get an advance look at some of the critical biocontrol research focused on Pacific Northwest specialty crops
•Willamette Valley Vineyards, to hear from experts about how biocontrol is used in sustainable wine grape production, and possibly even do a little wine tasting before heading back to Portl
and.
Due to the early sell-out status of past tours and workshops, secure your seat early. For more information on the conference, including registration information, visit BiocontrolsConference.com.
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