HTFG Names Awardees, Schedules Conference

The Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers named the recipients of its appreciation awards and has scheduled its annual conference.

The awards are given annually to supporters of the state’s local fruit industry—Mark G. Wright, Ph.D.; David Frenz, Tracie Matsumoto, Ph.D; Lisa Keith, Ph.D; and Peter Follet, Ph.D.

“The Hawaii Tropical Fruit Growers feels it’s important to recognize those who make significant contributions to the tropical fruit industry across the state,” said Ken Love, HTFG executive director. “Past winners include chefs, growers and researchers.”

Dr. Wright of the Department of Plant and Environmental Protection Sciences at the University of Hawai‘i-Mānoa was cited for his continuous support of HTFG and helping statewide growers better understand the benefits of integrated pest management.

Frenz of Birds and Budz in Hilo was recognized for “dedication to high quality propagation while helping growers realize there are many plant varieties to consider.”

Both affiliated with the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) and the Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center (PBARC) in Hilo, Dr. Matsumoto and Dr. Keith were honored for continuously supporting HTFG and its programs through research.

Dr. Follet, also of USDA ARS and PBARC, was tapped for HTFG support and quarantine update education.

The 2016 HTFG Conference is scheduled for Sept. 30 through Oct. 2, 2016, at the Aqua Kaua‘i Beach Resort on The Garden Isle.

Geared to farmers, educators, orchard managers and proponents of sustainable agriculture, the weeklong event is presented by the statewide HTFG.

Registration forms, speaker itinerary and fee schedule will be available in April at www.htfg.org or by contacting Love at kenlove@hawaiiantel.net or Mark Suiso at suiso@aloha.net.

Marking its 26th year, HTFG was incorporated in 1989 to promote tropical fruit grown in Hawai‘i. It is a statewide association of tropical fruit growers, packers, distributors and hobbyists dedicated to tropical fruit research, education, marketing and promotion.