Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

This new partnership between the Institute for Sustainable Horticulture at Kwantlen Polytechnic University and Camirlaney Farms Ltd. will address nutritional and pest management challenges in the transition to organic production for cranberries by the industry partner. This is the first commercial farm to endeavour to produce Certified Organic cranberries in BC. The project will study the use of new bioproducts under development at ISH with other industry partners, and biocontrol of Blackheaded Fireworm with a pre-commercial native egg parasitoid Trichogramma sibericum. The impact of new organic amendments will be evaluated through analysis of plant response over one growing season. The effect of the egg parasitoid on Blackheaded Fireworm management in the organic field will be compared to its effect on the same pest in a conventional field where insecticides are also used. Camirlaney Farms will use the results of this project immediately to apply to the organic transition of their cranberry crop. They will have access to new tools for optimizing organic nutrition and an important biological pest management tool. Kwantlen Polytechnic University will benefit from training of students in the Sustainable Agriculture degree program and building a new industry partnership for faculty and students.