A sign of spring: Asparagus Day March 9

Workers pick asparagus in a field outside of Hart.
– OCP file photo

A sign of spring: Asparagus Day March 9

NEW ERA – Michigan State University Extension and the Michigan Asparagus Industry Research Farm Advisory Committee have scheduled this year’s Oceana Asparagus Day for Thursday, March 9. 

This in-person workshop brings together MSU researchers and industry representatives from inside and outside Michigan to update growers on the latest challenges and opportunities in asparagus production. 

Topics will include: an update from Canada on the newly privatized Fox Seeds Breeding program; research into the health benefits of asparagus; a travelog from the International Asparagus Symposium in Spain; presentations from the Michigan Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Association (MACMA) — asparagus division; and the latest MSU and industry research on disease and crop management. Exhibitors will include chemical companies, agricultural suppliers and commodity organizations.  

“Our industry views their partnership with researchers at MSU as an investment that will keep west Michigan asparagus production viable for the long-run,” said Ben Werling, Michigan State University Extension educator. “Oceana Asparagus Day, which is organized by both these groups, is a testimony to this commitment.”

Three Michigan pesticide recertification credits in the categories of private core, commercial core or 1B and Certified Crop Advisors’ Continuing Education Units have been awarded.

The 2023 Oceana Asparagus Day will be at the New Era Reformed Church, 4775 1st St. from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The annual MACMA meeting will follow Asparagus Day at the same location.

Early registration is $25 by Tuesday, Feb. 28. Registration after Feb. 28 is $40. To register, visit bit.ly/2023oad; call the Oceana County MSU Extension office at 231-873-2129; or stop by the office at 844 South Griswold St. in Hart.

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