OKANOGAN, Wash. – A series of free computer workshops designed to assist fruit growers with long-term decision making will be available free of charge this winter.
Workshops at three locations have been scheduled to teach growers how to use A Grower’s Technology Economic Assessment Model computer program. It is a Windows-based program designed to help in making long-run decisions when considering implementing technology or other management changes in perennial fruit production. A Grower’s TEAM can evaluate an array of possible technologies at the grower level. Examples of technologies include, but are not limited to, rootstocks, varieties, optical sensors, self-propelled orchard platforms, low-volume orchard sprayers, and robotics.
A Grower’s TEAM uses enterprise budgets to establish a base from which producers can analyze the potential profitability and feasibility of implementing such technologies over a 20-year period. A single plan can be evaluated, or two cropping systems can be compared at the same time.
The workshops are scheduled for:
- Jan. 20, Wenatchee, Wenatchee Valley College, 1300 5th ST, Sexton Hall, Room 6002, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Jan. 22, Moses Lake, ATEC building on Big Bend Community College, library room 1802, 6 – 8 p.m.
- Feb. 3, Omak, Wenatchee Valley College, Friendship Hall, 6 – 8 p.m.
There is no cost to attend, but participants are asked to call ahead and register since space is limited to 15 students. Every participant will have access to a computer, be oriented to the software with step-by-step instructions and receive a free copy of the software along with a manual.
The workshops are supported by the Washington State Tree Fruit Research Commission and Washington State University Extension. Workshop presenter will be Norman Suverly, director of WSU Okanogan County Extension.
More information about attending one of the workshops is available by contacting the WSU Okanogan County Extension office to register at (509) 422-7245 or email suverly@wsu.edu.
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