Source: UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT submitted to
USING NEW ALTERNATIVES TO ENHANCE ADOPTION OF ORGANIC APPLE PRODUCTION THROUGH INTEGRATED RESEARCH AND EXTENSION
Sponsoring Institution
National Institute of Food and Agriculture
Project Status
COMPLETE
Funding Source
OTHER GRANTS
Reporting Frequency
Annual
Accession No.
0218650
Grant No.
2009-51300-05530
Cumulative Award Amt.
$946,675.00
Proposal No.
2009-01325
Multistate No.
(N/A)
Project Start Date
Aug 1, 2009
Project End Date
Jul 31, 2014
Grant Year
2009
Program Code
[113.A]- Organic Agriculture Research & Extension Initiative
Recipient Organization
UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT
(N/A)
BURLINGTON,VT 05405
Performing Department
Plant & Soil Science
Non Technical Summary
Apples are an important component of New England's diversified agriculture. Although there is significant interest in organic production, there are very few organic apple orchards in New England, in part, because of the challenges associated with the traditional apple cultivar grown (McIntosh). However, because of recent shifts in consumer preference for newer cultivars, growers are planting different apple cultivars. Growers want to know what the potential is for sustainable and profitable organic production with the newer apple cultivars that are being planted in the region. This project holistically examines the opportunities and challenges of organic production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The long-term goal of this multi-state, multidisciplinary project is to enhance adoption of organic apple production in New England through research that advances the scientific knowledge base and provides practical information to stakeholders.
Animal Health Component
70%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
(N/A)
Applied
70%
Developmental
30%
Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)Subject of Investigation (SOI)Field of Science (FOS)Percent
2051110106050%
2161110106020%
1021110106015%
6011110301015%
Knowledge Area
601 - Economics of Agricultural Production and Farm Management; 102 - Soil, Plant, Water, Nutrient Relationships; 205 - Plant Management Systems; 216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems;

Subject Of Investigation
1110 - Apple;

Field Of Science
1060 - Biology (whole systems); 3010 - Economics;
Goals / Objectives
Apples are an important component of New England's diversified agriculture. Although there is significant interest in organic production, there are very few organic apple orchards in New England, in part, because of the challenges associated with the traditional apple cultivar grown (McIntosh). However, because of recent shifts in consumer preference for newer cultivars, growers are planting different apple cultivars. Growers want to know what the potential is for sustainable and profitable organic production with the newer apple cultivars that are being planted in the region. This project holistically examines the opportunities and challenges of organic production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The long-term goal of this multi-state, multidisciplinary project is to enhance adoption of organic apple production in New England through research that advances the scientific knowledge base and provides practical information to stakeholders. Through a closely integrated extension/outreach program that addresses stakeholder needs, the project will enable whole farm planning, improve competitiveness, and enhance the ability of growers to grow and market high quality organic apples. Stakeholders have been an intricate part of the development of the project's goals and objectives and have guided the project throughout the past three years; extensive stakeholder involvement will continue throughout the next three years. The project directly relates to five of the OREI goals/priorities, two of which are designated as OREI's highest priorities. The project's objectives are: Research 1. Continue to evaluate new apple cultivars and incorporate research-generated knowledge of apple ecosystem dynamics into organic production systems to determine sustainability and profitability. 2. Field test commonly used organically-certified growth regulators (i.e., seaweed products) and evaluate their impacts on fruit yield, quality, tree nutrition and health including impact on disease and arthropod pests. 3. Evaluate the benefits of different ground cover strategies in promoting tree health, plant and soil water status, and yield and fruit quality. Extension 4. Continue to collaboratively develop and implement with stakeholders a multi-dimensional extension program that addresses their priorities and needs, enables whole farm planning, improves competitiveness, and enhances the ability of growers to grow and market high quality organic apples.
Project Methods
Objective 1. The research initiated in 2006 to determine the opportunities and challenges of organic apple production with the five cultivars planted in two orchard systems will continue in the two certified organic orchards at the UVM Horticultural Farm in South Burlington, VT. In essence, this is a feasibility/profitability study having the following questions: (i)What are the opportunities and challenges of organic apple production with the five cultivars planted in the two orchard systems (ii) Is organic apple production profitable and sustainable with the knowledge and tools we have and with these cultivars (iii) Will there be a long-term difference in profitability between the two organic orchard systems The following types of data will be collected: horticultural measurements of tree health and productivity, disease and insect incidence, soil health measurements, and economical parameters. Objective 2. The questions we seek to answer include: (i) Given adequate mineral nutrition and water availability, is there an effect on tree growth, fruit yield and quality, attributable to applications of commonly used seaweed products (ii) Does application of seaweed products increase tree health such that incidence of disease and arthropod damage is reduced on fruit and foliage (iii) Can the use of seaweed products improve tree health to a point where they can better resist attack from pests, thereby reducing the need for pesticide intervention in the orchards There will be three treatments in this study: a standard nutrient application applied to all trees and two seaweed treatments commonly used by organic apple growers. Data collection will include tree growth and productivity measurements, fruit quality, leaf nutrient analysis, and disease and arthropod damage assessment across the five cultivars. Objective 3. The demonstration orchard at the University of Maine will contain a research study on ground cover management for weed control. Ground cover management strategies of close mowing, mulching, and an organic herbicide will be compared on Honeycrisp trees on G.11 and M.26 as to their impact on weeds and tree health. Data will be collected on weed biomass, tree growth, and soil health and moisture. Objective 4. The extension/outreach program will: (i) Continue the development of the OrganicA website, http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ (ii) Expand the delivery of resource materials to eOrganic. (iii) Collaboratively organize tours of organic apple farms in the region where growers can learn from the experience and insights of the host organic farmer. (iv) Organize grower field days and/or at the two organic research orchard systems. (v) Organize and conduct a regional Workshop on Organic Apple Production in December, 2011. (vi) Develop a comprehensive Practical Guide to Organic Apple Production.

Progress 08/01/09 to 07/31/14

Outputs
Target Audience: Organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to various audiences including commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, students, and the general public in the region and beyond. A significant number of people have received information; for example, the organic apple website for the project had over 16,800 visits during the past year and a total of approximately 67,452 visits since the beginning of the project. Changes/Problems: There were no major changes/problems. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? A multi-faceted extension/outreach program was developed and provided numerous opportunities for obtaining information and education on organic apple production in each year of the project. Please see the “Output” section of this and previous reports for details. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Please see the “Publication” and “Output” sections of this and previous reports for details. A multi-dimensional extension program, which included on-site visits, orchard tours, newsletter articles, websites, and grower meetings, was developed and provided stakeholders with organic apple information. Organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region and beyond. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Extensive organic apple research was conducted over multiple years with results presented to growers and researchers. Please see prior reports for lists of publications and presentations. Currently, a comprehensive assessment of sustainability and profitability of the two organic systems under investigation over the full course of the project is being written. A multi-dimensional extension program, which included on-site visits, orchard tours, newsletter articles, websites, and grower meetings, was developed and provided stakeholders with organic apple information. Organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region and beyond. Also, this research project served as the basis for obtaining additional funding to further organic apple research in an area deemed important by stakeholders.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. 2014. Scab Resistant Apple Cultivars: Potential for Low Input, High-Quality Cider Apple Production. U.S. Association of Cider Makers Conference, Chicago, IL. 2/05/2014. Contacts: 50 people from across the USA
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. 2013. The Apple Season: UVM Research Supports Growers and Consumers. Across the Fence Television Segment, WCAX TV, Burlington, VT. 10/04/2013. Contacts: 25,000 viewership
  • Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Berkett, L.P. 2014. Organic Orchard Observations. University of Vermont. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ListservesBlogs/listservesblogs.html Contacts: 203 viewers
  • Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., and S. Kingsley-Richards. 2014. The OrganicA Project website. University of Vermont. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ (Contacts: approximately 16,838 during past year; 67352 from beginning of project)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T., Campbell, C., and Flynt, D. 2014. Whats Worked for Us: A Panel Discussion on Growing Cider Apples.U.S. Association of Cider Makers Conference, Chicago, IL. 2/05/2014. Contacts: 50 people from across USA
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Peck, G., Bradshaw, T., Miles, C., and Stewart, A. 2014. Panel: What are Cider Producers Future Research Needs? U.S. Association of Cider Makers Conference, Chicago, IL. 2/05/2014. Contacts: 50 people from across USA
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. Biologic and economic assessment of five apple cultivars under two organic management systems in Vermont. University of Vermont PhD Dissertation, in preparation.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. 2014. Organic Tree Fruit Production in New England. IN New England Tree Fruit Production Guide. Coop. Extension Systems of New England.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2015 Citation: Hazelrigg, A. Comparison of Three Organic Apple Orchard Management Systems on Disease and Arthropod Pests. University of Vermont PhD Dissertation, in preparation.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., and Kingsley-Richards, S.L. 2014. University of Vermont Apple Research and Outreach Programs. 13 February, 2014. Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association Annual Meeting. Middlebury, VT. Contacts: 65 attendees


Progress 08/01/12 to 07/31/13

Outputs
Target Audience: Organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region. Changes/Problems: There are no major changes/problems to in approach. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided? Please see "output" section of this report for specific events. A multi-dimensional extension program continued to provide stakeholders with organic apple information that included on-site visits, orchard tours, newsletter articles, websites, and grower meetings. Ten issues of Organic Orchard Observations were each sent out during the reporting period via email to OrganicA listserve members and archived on the OrganicA website. Stakeholders visited the various webpages on the OrganicA website a total of approximately 20,995 times during the past year. Project personnel answered numerous stakeholder questions on organic apple production; organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest? Please see "output" section of this report for specific events. A multi-dimensional extension program continued to provide stakeholders with organic apple information that included on-site visits, orchard tours, newsletter articles, websites, and grower meetings. Ten issues of Organic Orchard Observations were each sent out during the reporting period via email to OrganicA listserve members and archived on the OrganicA website. Stakeholders visited the various webpages on the OrganicA website a total of approximately 20,995 times during the past year. Project personnel answered numerous stakeholder questions on organic apple production; organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Final organic apple research results will be summarized and presented to various stakeholders including commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, and the general public in the region.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Research 1. Continue to evaluate ‘new’ apple cultivars and incorporate research-generated knowledge of apple ecosystem dynamics into organic production systems to determine sustainability and profitability. Field data on tree growth, fruit yield and quality, and disease/pest incidence on fruit and foliage were collected on all cultivars in two OrganicA research orchards. These data were included into the overall dataset for the project to continue to assess cultivar performance under organic management. Cumulative, long-term yield, fruit quality, and pest incidence data will be used to determine overall profitability of the cultivars under the two systems used in the project. This information is important to regional apple growers and may affect adoption of organic practices in apple orchards. 2. Field test commonly recommended organic foliar nutrient sources and evaluate their impacts on fruit yield, quality, tree nutrition and health including impact on disease and arthropod pests. Norwegian kelp extracts commonly used in organic production systems were assessed in an organic orchard during 2009 and 2010, and found to be of little benefit in the study orchard. In 2012, complete results from this study were presented locally to Vermont apple growers, and internationally, at the 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium. 3. Evaluate the benefits of different ground cover strategies in promoting tree health, plant and soil water status, and yield and fruit quality. Research on organic ground cover strategies for apple trees was completed and an on-farm organic research project to improve zinc nutrition in apple trees was continued in Maine. Extension 4. Continue to collaboratively develop and implement with stakeholders a multi-dimensional extension program that addresses their priorities and needs, enables whole farm planning, improves competitiveness, and enhances the ability of growers to grow and market high quality organic apples. A multi-dimensional extension program continued to provide stakeholders with organic apple information that included on-site visits, orchard tours, newsletter articles, websites, and grower meetings. Ten issues of Organic Orchard Observations were each sent out during the reporting period via email to OrganicA listserve members and archived on the OrganicA website. Stakeholders visited the various webpages on the OrganicA website a total of approximately 20,995 times during the past year. Project personnel answered numerous stakeholder questions on organic apple production; organic apple production information and research summaries were distributed to diverse audiences which included commercial apple growers, scientists, extension personnel, industry personnel, undergraduate and graduate students and the general public in the region.

Publications

  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. 2013. Tour of UVM Orchards and Vineyard. Friends of the Hort Farm Annual Bloomtime Festival. South Burlington, VT. 11 May, 2013. Attendance: 80.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Maine State Pomological Society Summer Tour, in Maine, Summer, 2012, attended by 30 apple growers. Tour of on-farm organic apple research plot at Pie-Tree Orchard.
  • Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Berkett, L.P. 2013. Organic Orchard Observations. University of Vermont. 10 issues. 31 pp. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ListservesBlogs/listservesblogs.html Contacts: 1,060 people via listserve)
  • Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., and S. Kingsley-Richards. 2013. The OrganicA Project website. University of Vermont. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ (Inquiries: approximately 20, 995)
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. 2012. Introduction to Orchard Management. UVM Farmer Training Program. University of Vermont Horticulture Research Center, South Burlington, VT. Field lecture on orchard management systems, including organic to 24 post-collegiate certificate program students. 24 August 2012. Students continued to interact with speaker during fall harvest
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Griffith, M.C., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Moran, R.E. and Garcia, M.E. 2012. Disease and Arthropod Evaluation of Five Apple Cultivars under Organic Management in Vermont, USA. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium, Leavenworth, WA. http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pdfs/P2535.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L., R.L. Parsons, L.P. Berkett, H.M. Darby, R.E. Moran, M.E. Garcia, S.L. Kingsley-Richards, and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Economic Analysis of Five Apple Cultivars in a Top-Grafted Organic Orchard, 2006-2011. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium, Leavenworth, WA. http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pdfs/P2535.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Garcia, M.E., Moran, R.E., Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Darby , H.M., Kingsley-Richards, S.L. and Parsons, R.L. 2013. Performance in the Early Production Years of Two Organic Orchards Established by Different Methods: Newly-Planted and Top-Grafted. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium, Leavenworth, WA. http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pdfs/P2535.pdf
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Moran, R., M. Garcia, L. Berkett, T. Bradshaw, S. Kingsley-Richards, M. Griffith, H. Darby and R. Parsons. 2012. Organic weed management strategies for apple trees. HortScience 47(9):S73. http://www.ashs.org/downloads/supplement/2012ASHS-AnnualConference.pdf
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Garcia, M.E., Moran, R.E., Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Darby , H.M., Kingsley-Richards, S.L. and Parsons, R.L. 2013. Performance in the Early Production Years of Two Organic Orchards Established by Different Methods: Newly-Planted and Top-Grafted. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1001:161-165
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2012 Citation: Moran, R., M. Garcia, L. Berkett, T. Bradshaw, H. Darby, R. Parsons. S. Kingsley-Richards, and M. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Research on Weed Management Options for Organic Apple Production. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium, Leavenworth, WA. http://www.tfrec.wsu.edu/pdfs/P2535.pdf
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Griffith, M.C., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Moran, R.E. and Garcia, M.E. 2013. Disease and Arthropod Evaluation of Five Apple Cultivars under Organic Management in Vermont, USA. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1001:235-248
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., Griffith, M.C., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Moran, R.E. and Garcia, M.E. 2013. Assessment of Kelp Extract Biostimulants on Arthropod Incidence and Damage in a Certified Organic Apple Orchard. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1001:139-145
  • Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., Griffith, M.C., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Moran, R.E. and Garcia, M.E. 2013. Assessment of Kelp Extract Biostimulants on Disease Incidence and Damage in a Certified Organic Apple Orchard. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 1001:265-271
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: NC140 Annual Meeting orchard tour, in Maine at the Highmoor Farm agricultural experiment station where organic apple research is being conduced, Nov. 2012, attended by 20 tree fruit researchers.
  • Type: Theses/Dissertations Status: Other Year Published: 2014 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. Biologic and economic assessment of five apple cultivars under two organic management systems in Vermont. University of Vermont PhD Dissertation, in preparation.
  • Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2013 Citation: Berkett, L. P., Griffith, M.C. and T. L. Bradshaw. 2013. Organic Tree Fruit Production in New England. New England Tree Fruit Production Guide. Coop. Extension Systems of New England.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Moran, R., M. Garcia, L. Berkett, T. Bradshaw, S. Kingsley-Richards, M. Griffith, H. Darby and R. Parsons. 2012. Organic weed management strategies for apple trees. An oral presentation made at the American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference in Miami, FL
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. Managing Scab-Resistant Apple Cultivars. University of Maine Summer Orchard Tour. Monmouth, ME. 31 July, 2013
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2013 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., and Kingsley-Richards, S.L. Present Research and Outreach Programs from the UVM Apple Team. 14 February, 2013. Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association Annual Meeting. Middlebury, VT.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. Turn Your Lawn Into Eden, Pest Management Considerations in Home Fruit Plantings. 12 August, 2012. NOFA-VT Summer Workshop, Elmore, VT.
  • Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Other Year Published: 2012 Citation: Bradshaw, T.L. The OrganicA Project: Assessing the Feasibility of Organic Apple Production in the Northeast. UVM Student Scholars Poster Competition, Finalist. 3 October, 2012. Burlington, VT.


Progress 08/01/11 to 07/31/12

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Apples are an important component of diversified agriculture in Vermont and the region. Although there is significant interest in organic production, there are very few organic apple orchards in New England, in part, because of the challenges associated with the traditional apple cultivar grown (McIntosh). However, because of recent shifts in consumer preference for newer cultivars, growers are planting different apple cultivars. Growers want to know what the potential is for sustainable and profitable organic production with the newer apple cultivars that are being planted in the region. This project holistically examines the opportunities and challenges of organic production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The long-term goal of this multi-state, interdisciplinary project is to enhance adoption of organic apple production in Vermont and New England through research that advances the scientific knowledge base and provides practical information to stakeholders. Outputs during this past year included continued research in two certified organic orchards in Vermont and ground cover management research in Maine; further development of the OrganicA website, including the publication of a Practical Guide to Organic Apple Production; organizing a New England Organic Apple Workshop attended by over 70 stakeholders; presentations at state apple grower and research/extension meetings, answering grower questions on organic apple production; and publishing 13 issues of the Organic Orchard Observations newsletter which contained time-sensitive organic information distributed to over 100 subscribers via email and archived on the OrganicA website where they were viewed over 500 times by stakeholders. PARTICIPANTS: The project investigators have a diverse background and represent the disciplines of horticulture, plant pathology, entomology, soil science, agronomy, and agricultural economics. They have expertise in integrated and organic research, in developing and implementing effective extension/outreach programs, in academic teaching and student advising, and in practical organic farming. The project investigators include: Lorraine Berkett, Heather Darby, and Robert Parsons from the University of Vermont; Elena Garcia from the University of Arkansas; and Renae Moran from the University of Maine. Growers throughout the region provide guidance and input to the project and participate in various aspects. Opportunities for training or professional development occur each year (i.e., workshop/tour) often in collaboration with other organizations such as the Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association, the Northeast Organic Farming Association, and others. A regional Organic Apple Workshop was organized this past year and held at the largest gathering of farmers and agricultural stakeholders in New England. The Workshop was highly rated; 98% of evaluators stated that the workshop increased their awareness and knowledge of organic apple production and 89% said they will use the information in their orchards. In addition, the OrganicA Project website and newsletter provided information and resources to current and prospective organic apple growers and project personnel were involved in one-on-one education of stakeholders who wanted to learn more about organic apple production. TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target audience of this project is current, transitioning, and prospective organic apple growers. Additional target audiences include extension specialists, researchers, agricultural consultants, government agency representatives, and members of the general public interested in organic apple production. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
This project holistically is examining the opportunities and challenges of organic apple production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. Stakeholders in the New England region and beyond have highly praised the project consistently since it was initiated in 2006. In multiple stakeholder surveys, 98% to 100% of participants have reported that the project has increased their knowledge of organic apple production and the majority have used the information provided by the project in their own orchards. The project has had an impact; the majority of participants in various surveys repeatedly have stated that the information generated by the OrganicA Project will enhance the potential to grow higher quality organic apples. The OrganicA Project has become a leading resource for organic apple information. In various surveys, 92% to 100% of participants said it was Very or Extremely important to continue the research and extension in the region.

Publications

  • Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., Griffith, M.C., Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., and R.L. Parsons. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Multi-Year Research Results on Tree Growth, Productivity, and Fruit Quality in Two Certified Organic Apple Production Systems. Northeast Organic Research Symposium Proceedings. NOFA-NY Northeast Organic Research Symposium, Saratoga Springs, NY. Darby, H.M., Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Parsons, R.L., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Evaluation of Soil Health in Two Vermont Organic Apple Orchards. Northeast Organic Research Symposium Proceedings. NOFA-NY Northeast Organic Research Symposium, Saratoga Springs, NY.
  • Berkett, L.P. 2012. Organic Orchard Observations. The OrganicA Project. University of Vermont. 13 issues, 44 pp. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ListservesBlogs/listservesblogs.html
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., and S. Kingsley-Richards. 2012. The OrganicA Project website. University of Vermont. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Practical Guide for Organic Apple Production. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/PracticalGuide/Home.html
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: IPM Research Results and Insights from Two Certified Organic Apple Production Systems. Northeast Organic Research Symposium Proceedings. NOFA-NY Northeast Organic Research Symposium, Saratoga Springs, NY
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: IPM Research Results and Insights from Two Certified Organic Apple Production Systems. Northeast Organic Research Symposium Proceedings. NOFA-NY Northeast Organic Research Symposium, Saratoga Springs, NY.
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Evaluating Opportunities for Organic Apple Production in New England. Organic Tree Fruit Association. Just Picked: vol 8, issue 2. pp. 2-3.
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: A Mult-State, Trans-disciplinary Apple Research, Education and Outreach Project. eOrganic. http://www.extension.org/pages/63325/the-organica-project:a-multi-sta te-trans-disciplinary-apple-research-education-and-outreach-project
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Evaluating New Opportunities for Organic Apple Production with Five Apple Cultivars in the New England Region of the USA. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Bradshaw, T.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Disease and Arthropod Evaluation of Five Apple Cultivars under Organic Management in Vermont, USA. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.
  • Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., Darby, H.M., Moran, R.E., Parsons, R.L., Garcia, M.E., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Assessment of Kelp Extract Biostimulants on Arthropod Incidence and Damage in a Certified Organic Apple Orchard. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.
  • Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., Darby, H.M., Moran, R.E., Parsons, R.L., Garcia, M.E., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Assessment of Kelp Extract Biostimulants on Disease Incidence and Damage in a Certified Organic Apple Orchard. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.
  • Garcia, M.E., Berkett, L.P., Moran, R.E., Bradshaw, T.L., Parsons, R.L., Darby, H.M., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Performance in the Early Production Years of Two Organic Orchards Established by Different Methods: Top-grafting and Newly Planted. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA
  • Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T.L., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Research on Weed Management Options for Organic Apple Production. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.
  • Moran, R.E., Bradshaw, T.L., Garcia, M.E., Berkett, L.P., Darby, H.M., Parsons, R.L., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. The OrganicA Project: Research on Weed Management Options for Organic Apple Production. Northeast Organic Research Symposium Proceedings. NOFA-NY Northeast Organic Research Symposium, Saratoga Springs, NY.
  • Bradshaw, T.L., Parsons, R.L., Berkett, L.P., Darby, H.M., Moran, R.E., Garcia, M.E., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.C. Griffith. 2012. Economic Analysis of Five Apple Cultivars in a Top-Grafted Organic Orchard, 2006-2011. 2nd International Organic Fruit Symposium Proceedings. Leavenworth, WA.


Progress 08/01/10 to 07/31/11

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Apples are an important component of diversified agriculture in Vermont and New England. Although there is significant interest in organic production, there are very few organic apple orchards in New England, in part, because of the challenges associated with the traditional apple cultivar grown (McIntosh). However, because of recent shifts in consumer preference for newer cultivars, growers are planting different apple cultivars. Growers want to know what the potential is for sustainable and profitable organic production with the newer apple cultivars that are being planted in the region. This project holistically examines the opportunities and challenges of organic production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The long-term goal of this multi-state, transdisciplinary project is to enhance adoption of organic apple production in Vermont and New England through research that advances the scientific knowledge base and provides practical information to stakeholders. Outputs during this past year included continued research in two certified organic orchards in Vermont and ground cover management research in Maine; planting a new organic research orchard to address identified challenges; further development of the OrganicA website (http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ ); an Organic Orchard Tour; presentations at state/regional apple grower and research/extension meetings, answering grower questions on organic apple production; and publishing 12 issues of Orchard Observations which is a web log of orchard observations disseminated to over 100 subscribers via email and posted on the OrganicA website. PARTICIPANTS: The project investigators have a diverse background and represent the disciplines of horticulture, plant pathology, entomology, soil science, agronomy, and agricultural economics. They have expertise in integrated and organic research, in developing and implementing effective extension/outreach programs, in academic teaching and student advising, and in practical organic farming. The project investigators include: Lorraine Berkett, Heather Darby, and Robert Parsons from the University of Vermont; Elena Garcia from the University of Arkansas; and Renae Moran from the University of Maine. Growers throughout the region provide guidance and input to the project and participate in various aspects. Opportunities for training or professional development occur each year (i.e., workshop/tour) often in collaboration with other organizations such as the Vermont Tree Fruit Growers Association, the Northeast Organic Farming Association, and others. In addition, the OrganicA Project website provides information and resources for current and prospective organic apple growers for professional development. TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target audience of this project is current, transitioning, and prospective organic apple growers. Additional target audiences include extension specialists, researchers, agricultural consultants, government agency representatives, and members of the general public interested in organic apple production. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
This project holistically is examining the opportunities and challenges of organic apple production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The project was initiated in 2006 and since then, all aspects of the OrganicA Project have received high praise. The project has increased knowledge of organic apple production and has created a change in action among program participants. All participants (100%) who responded to an evaluation of the tour of the research organic apple orchards this past year agreed that the event increased their awareness and knowledge of organic apple production and 94% rated the OrganicA Project as very/extremely important to increasing information and insights into organic apple production. Ninety-five percent (95%) of participants planned on using the information presented at the tour. In an on-line evaluation of the project, 100% of respondents said the OrganicA Project has increased their knowledge and understanding of organic apple production; 83% stated that they have used the information in decision-making. Research results and insights have been presented at state/regional workshops involving growers, scientists, extension personnel, and agricultural consultants and at national and international scientific conferences. The OrganicA Project has also become a leading resource for organic information on the world wide web. This past year there were over 10,000 visits to the OrganicA website by people seeking organic apple information.

Publications

  • Moran, R., Garcia, E., Berkett, L., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S., and M. Cromwell. 2011. Organic Weed Management Strategies for Apple Trees. ASHS National Conference Proceedings: 340, OREI-4.
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Cromwell. 2011. The OrganicA Project: A Multistate, Transdisciplinary Apple Research, Education, and Outreach Project. Vermont Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA) Winter Conference, February 2011.
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Cromwell. 2011. The OrganicA Project: A Multistate, Transdisciplinary Apple Research, Education, and Outreach Project. USDA Organic Farming Systems Research Conference, Washington, D.C., March 2011.
  • Berkett, L.P. 2011. Organic Orchard Observations, 12 issues, 52 pp. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ListservesBlogs/listservesblogs.html
  • Berkett, L.P. 2011. OrganicA Project: Research Update, 2 009 -2010. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/OrganicA_Feb082011_VTFGApresentation.ppt
  • Berkett, L. P. and T. L. Bradshaw. 2011. Organic Tree Fruit Production in New England. New England Tree Fruit Prod. Guide. Coop. Extension Systems of New England.
  • Berkett, L., Cromwell, M., Kingsley-Richards, S., and T. Bradshaw. 2011. Brown Marmorated Stink Bug. http://www.uvm.edu/~organica/OrganicOrchardInformation/OrganicIPM/BMS B.html
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Griffith. 2011. The OrganicA Project website: http://www.uvm.edu/organica/
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Griffith. 2011. The OrganicA Project Channel. http://www.youtube.com/user/UVMOrganicA
  • Bradshaw, T.L., Berkett, L.P., Kingsley-Richards, S.L., and M.L. Cromwell. 2011. Planting OrganicA Orchard 4: A High-Density Planting with Scab-Resistant Cultivars. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/OrganicOrchardInformation/Horticulture/Pl antingOrchard4.html
  • Bradshaw, T., Griffith, M., Kingsley-Richards, S., and L. Berkett. 2011. The OrganicA Project - Update on Organic Apple Arthropod Management. New England, New York & Canadian Fruit Pest Management Workshop, Burlington, VT
  • Cromwell, M.L., L.P. Berkett, H.M. Darby, and T. Ashikaga. 2011. Alternative organic fungicides for apple scab management and their non-target effects. HortScience 46: 1254-1259.
  • Garcia, M.E., Moran, R., Berkett, L.P., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and B. Parsons. 2010. Horticultural Options when Starting an Organic Apple Orchard. Acta Hort. (ISHS) 873:277-282. http://www.actahort.org/books/873/873_30.htm
  • Garcia, E.M., Berkett, L.P., Moran E R., Bradshaw, T., and S. Kingsley-Richards. 2010. Top-Grafting: A Viable Alternative when Changing Cultivars in an Apple Orchard 28th International Horticultural Congress, Lisbon-Portugal, 22-27 August 2010
  • Griffith, M., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S., and L. Berkett. 2011. The OrganicA Project -- Update on Organic Apple Disease Management. New England, New York & Canadian Fruit Pest Management Workshop, Burlington, VT


Progress 08/01/09 to 07/31/10

Outputs
OUTPUTS: Apples are an important component of diversified agriculture in Vermont and New England. Although there is significant interest in organic production, there are very few organic apple orchards in New England, in part, because of the challenges associated with the traditional apple cultivar grown (McIntosh). However, because of recent shifts in consumer preference for newer cultivars, growers are planting different apple cultivars. Growers want to know what the potential is for sustainable and profitable organic production with the newer apple cultivars that are being planted in the region. This project holistically examines the opportunities and challenges of organic production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The long-term goal of this multi-state, transdisciplinary project is to enhance adoption of organic apple production in Vermont and New England through research that advances the scientific knowledge base and provides practical information to stakeholders. Through a closely integrated extension/outreach program that addresses stakeholder needs, the project will enable whole farm planning, improve competitiveness, and enhance the ability of growers to grow and market high quality organic apples. Outputs during this past year included further development of the OrganicA website (http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ ); an Organica Workshop/Tour; presentations at regional apple grower and/or research/extension meetings, answering grower questions on organic apple production; and publishing 12 issues of Orchard Observations which is a web log of orchard observations. PARTICIPANTS: The project investigators have a diverse background and represent the disciplines of horticulture, plant pathology, entomology, soil science, agronomy, and agricultural economics. They have expertise in integrated and organic research, in developing and implementing effective extension/outreach programs, in academic teaching and student advising, and in practical organic farming. The project investigators include: Lorraine Berkett, Heather Darby, and Robert Parsons from the University of Vermont; Elena Garcia from the University of Arkansas; and Renae Moran from the University of Maine. Opportunities for training or professional development occur each year (i.e., workshop/tour)often in collaboration with other organizations. In addition, the OrganicA Project website provides information and resources for current and prospective organic apple growers for professional development. TARGET AUDIENCES: The primary target audience of this project is current, transitioning, and prospective organic apple growers. Additional target audiences include extension specialists, researchers, agricultural consultants, government agency representatives, and members of the general public interested in organic apple production. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period.

Impacts
This project holistically is examining the opportunities and challenges of organic apple production within the two major orchard systems growers are using to change to new cultivars and with five of the top apple cultivars that growers identified as important to the future of the industry. The project was initiated in 2006 and since then, all aspects of the OrganicA Project have received high praise. The project has increased knowledge of organic apple production and has created a change in action among program participants. The OrganicA Project has become a leading resource for organic information on the world wide web. Research results and insights have been presented at regional workshops involving growers, scientists, extension personnel, and agricultural consultants and at national and international scientific conferences. This long-term project was nationally ranked #1 by the USDA Organic Agriculture Research & Extension Program upon review for funding the second phase of this long-term project.

Publications

  • Cromwell, M. and L. Berkett. 2009. Summary of an Evaluation of Alternative Organic Fungicides for Apple Scab Management in Vermont. The OrganicA Project website. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/OrganicOrchardInformation/OrganicIPM/Summ aryAlternativeFungicideScabResults2007_2008.pdf
  • Cromwell, M. and L. Berkett. 2009. Summary of a Preliminary Evaluation of Raw Milk as a Fungicide for Apple Scab Management in Vermont. The OrganicA Project website. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/OrganicOrchardInformation/OrganicIPM/Summ aryMilkFungicideTrial_ScabResults2007.pdf
  • Berkett, L.P., Moran, R., Garcia, M.E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., and J. Hayden. 2009 The OrganicA Project Progress Report: June 2006 - March 2009. The OrganicA Project Website. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/OrganicAProject/2009ProgressReport/progre ss.html
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Hayden, J., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Cromwell. 2009. USDA/National Organic Program: New England Tree Fruit Orchard Research and Demonstration Plot Update. Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO, Grand Rapids, MI, December 2008.
  • Garcia, M. E., L. P. Berkett, T. Bradshaw, and S. Kingsley-Richards, R. E. Moran, and R. Parsons. 2010. Horticultural Options when Starting an Organic Apple Orchard. Acta Hort. 873. ISHS. 277-281.
  • Berkett, L.P. 2010. Organic Orchard Observations, 12 issues, 52 pp. http://www.uvm.edu/organica/ListservesBlogs/listservesblogs.html
  • Berkett, L. P. and T. L. Bradshaw. 2010. Organic Tree Fruit Production in New England. New England Tree Fruit Prod. Guide. Coop. Extension Systems of New England.
  • Berkett, L., Moran, R., Garcia, E., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Hayden, J., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and M. Cromwell. 2010. The OrganicA Project website: http://www.uvm.edu/organica/
  • Garcia, E.M., Berkett, L.P., Moran E R., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. 2010. Top-Grafting: A Viable Alternative when Changing Cultivars in An Apple Orchard 28th International Horticultural Congress, Lisbon-Portugal, 22-27 August 2010.
  • Berkett, L., Garcia, M., Moran, R., Darby, H., Parsons, R., Hayden, J., Bradshaw, T., Kingsley-Richards, S. and Cromwell, M. 2009. The OrganicA Project: Organic Disease Management in Orchards with Newer Cultivars. International Organization for Biological and Integrated Control Bulletin: 428-432.