16th July, 2014:
PCA Annual General Meeting to be held at HFF Conference
The following Motion will be tabled at the forthcoming PCA AGM on the 16th July 2014:
‘That a new PCA sector be created entitled ‘Aquaponics’ and such sector be included within the ‘Leafy Greens’ Sector Crop or Crops, thereby replacing one of the two ‘persons elected in the second ballot’
Graeme Smith, PCA Director says: "Globally aquaponics is emerging as a significant new sector of the greenhouse and hydroponics community with many new commercial and research enterprises evaluating their contribution to enhancing integrated food production systems.
"My regular international travels for PCA, ISHS or private has revealed many aquaponic research projects and commercial developments are well underway thereby leading Australia in this exciting new field.
"Many countries have already established professional facilities to investigate and refine these integrated production systems incl. Holland, Canada, USA, Israel, UAE, Norway, Finland, UK, Belgium, Sweden, China, Singapore, etc to name but a few)
"There exists strong potential for existing growers or new investors to value add the commercial production of aquatic animals through integration of these to greenhouse systems.
"However ongoing trials and research continues to overcome current integration issues usually related to fertiliser inputs.
"Whilst these integration issues exist, it is my contention that the PCA needs to be involved at these relatively early stages to ensure they keep abreast of new and emerging developments and communicate these to industry.
"The motion proposes to create a new position within the Leafy Greens sector as this is currently the most appropriate position due to a preponderance of global systems based on these crops.
"Significant work is also underway evaluating integration to alternative crops that include vine crops, etc.
By electing this Director in the 2nd ballot, it keeps total Directors to 10 and only replaces one position from any Sector.
"Thru proactive endeavours, PCA can remain relevant and positive on behalf of industry members with timely involvement of global industry issues."
For more information about the HFF Conference, visit www.protectedcroppingaustralia.com/Events/HFF+2014+Conference
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