Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - The Alachua County Extension Office is pleased to announce the following Commercial Horticulture Program for November, 2011. These programs are offered by Aparna Gazula, Commercial Horticulture Agent. The programs will be held at the Alachua County Cooperative Extension Office (2800 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville).

Ethnic Vegetable Production (Co-instructor: Barton Wilder) – November 8, 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Ethnic markets have expanded at a rapid rate in recent years and present an opportunity for local farmers. According to the US Census Bureau information, there are 10,764 citizens of Asian origin, and 17,368 citizens of Hispanic origin in Alachua County. Learn which vegetables do best and how to grow them in Alachua County.

This class is free. Pre-register by calling 352-337-6209.

Green Industries Best Management Practices Workshop – November 29, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This workshop is designed to provide training in Best Management Practices for those working in the lawn, landscape, pest control or municipal grounds areas. This is a required training class for all commercial and institutional fertilizer applicators in Alachua County according to the Alachua County Fertilizer Standards and Management Practices Code.

Best Management Practices are focused on reducing non-point source pollution resulting from fertilization or pesticide application. In some areas, certifications are needed in the BMPs to be able to bid on jobs or have commercial customers. It will be mandatory throughout the state in the near future.

* Earn CEUs for pesticide license holders. For CEUs, get form signed. *(2) CORE, (2) Ornamental & Turf, Limited Commercial Landscape.

Cost $25.00 (includes materials and lunch). Please pre-register by November 23 by calling 352-337-6209.

All Extension Programs and Services are open to all without regard to race, color, age, sex, religion, national origin or handicap. For persons requiring special accommodations, please contact the Extension office at 352-955-2402 (voice) or TDD/TYY 352-955-2406 or at the Alachua County Extension Service, 2800 NE 39th Avenue, Gainesville, FL 32609. Please contact the Extension Office at least five working days prior to the program so that proper consideration may be given to the request.