Grower Summit by ACT | March 6, 2024

Growing Beyond Limits: Plant Health, Crop Diversity, and Energy Optimization

This in-person event is hosted by the ACT Group

The greenhouse food production sector is undergoing rapid evolution, playing a vital role in sustaining the world's expanding population. Given the rising demand for fresh, locally sourced produce and the imperative to mitigate agriculture's environmental impact, embracing innovative approaches becomes paramount. Growers can propel their operations forward by prioritizing enhancements in plant health and quality, broadening crop varieties, and optimizing energy consumption.

The ACT Group is set to host the 2nd Leamington Grower Summit, a half-day, in-person, complimentary educational event designed to offer strategies for enhancing the operational excellence of greenhouses while concurrently improving cost-effectiveness. This event will delve into crucial industry topics through real-world case studies, data and research presentations, and the dissemination of the latest innovations available to growers.

After the educational workshops, the ACT Group will host a happy hour including heavy appetizers and cocktails.

This panel discussion on crop diversity will focus on expanding beyond a primary crop to include others like cucumbers, peppers, strawberries, and lettuce. Representatives from the four ACT companies will discuss similarities and dissimilarities of environmental controls, irrigation, screening and shading, lighting, and substrates. The discussion will help growers understand considerations to building a successful and efficient operation. Attendees can expect to learn about the benefits and best practices for growing a different crop, and how to optimize their growing conditions for maximum yield and profit.

The ACT Group is excited to welcome Margaret May from the Ontario Soil & Crop Improvement Association to present an overview of the Environmental Farm Plan, outlining its mechanisms, goals, and benefits for growers, along with requisite criteria. It discusses available funding options such as SCAP and other programs, detailing amounts, periods, and categories. It highlights eligible products and actions tailored to greenhouse growers, emphasizing qualifying measures for funding. Real-world success stories within the greenhouse sector demonstrate tangible benefits. Lastly, it informs about upcoming funding periods, workshops, and deadlines, fostering engagement and participation.