RARITAN TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County recently hosted an educational meeting for about 60 tree fruit growers from across North Jersey, focusing on orchard production, pest management and business challenges facing the region’s fruit industry.
The full-day program was held in the assembly room at the Hunterdon County Route 12 Complex and was organized by Dr. Megan Muehlbauer, the county’s agricultural agent with Rutgers Cooperative Extension. Muehlbauer works with growers across the region, providing research-based guidance on orchard management and production issues.
Hunterdon County Commissioner Jeff Kuhl, liaison for Economic Development and Tourism, highlighted the importance of supporting the county’s agricultural sector.
“Agriculture remains a vital part of Hunterdon County’s economy and heritage,” said Commissioner Kuhl. “Programs like this provide our local growers with the latest research and practical information they need to keep their farms productive and successful.”
The meeting included presentations from agricultural experts representing Rutgers Cooperative Extension, Cornell AgriTech, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, the New Jersey Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency.
Topics covered during the program included pest and disease management, soil health, peach variety updates and integrated pest management strategies for orchard growers.
One presentation focused on ambrosia beetles, an emerging pest that can damage fruit trees. The session was delivered by Monique Rivera, an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at Cornell AgriTech.
The event also provided pesticide recertification credits for licensed applicators through the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.
During the meeting, the New Jersey State Horticulture Society presented its Outstanding Fruit Grower Award to Dale Davis IV of Stony Hill Farms in Chester for his contributions to the state’s fruit-growing industry.
Officials said the annual gathering offers growers an opportunity to stay informed about the latest developments in orchard production while connecting with agricultural specialists and other producers from around the region.
