Environmental Horticulture Industry Endows Research Chair in Nursery and<br>Landscape Science

VINELAND, ON, Feb. 18 /CNW/ - The Ontario Horticultural Research Foundation is pleased to announce a contribution of $100,000 towards a three million dollar Research Chair to be located at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the Ontario Agricultural College at the University of Guelph.

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, University of Guelph, Landscape Ontario and Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation have worked together in design of this new academic role. "Today we have taken the first step of many towards establishing a critical mass of science knowledge specific to the needs of our sector. In 2010 we will be focused on securing final contributions and selecting an individual for the position." said John Wright, President, Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation.

An important aspect to the work will be the availability of information and technical transfer to industry stakeholders. Utilizing communication networks at Landscape Ontario, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre and the University of Guelph means that research and innovation outputs will quickly reach user hands.

"This position will not only bring innovation in research but will re-strengthen our teaching and training capability in amenity and environmental horticulture. The OAC at the University of Guelph is excited about this opportunity and is looking forward to working with the Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, and Landscape Ontario in further developing horticultural academics and research." said Rene Van Acker, Associate Dean of External Relations at OAC.

The Research Chair is also an ideal fit with the science program at Vineland Research and Innovation Centre. "Environmental horticultural research is a significant component of our research mandate at Vineland. We know rapid and responsive research and innovation can speed access to new opportunities for growers and landscape agri-business. There is tremendous potential for continued positive growth in this sector, the Research Chair will bring a heightened level of focus to the science," said Dr. Jim Brandle, CEO, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre.

About Vineland Research and Innovation Centre

Vineland Research and Innovation Centre is an independent, not-for-profit organization that was created to be a world-class centre for horticultural science and innovation. In its capacity to enable and foster relationships with industry, academia and government, Vineland works to deliver premium product and production innovations. Vineland brings a global perspective to the Canadian horticulture industry and offers a broad range of lasting benefits to stakeholders both locally and internationally. Aligned with industry needs, Vineland's research priorities and outcomes are focused on the growth of the entire horticulture industry.

About Landscape Ontario

Established in 1973, Landscape Ontario has become an invaluable association within the Ontario horticulture industry. Comprising over 2,000 members of horticulture professionals, Landscape Ontario both encourages and supports projects and education initiatives. Through sector groups, Landscape Ontario facilitates a network of support addressing industry needs for its members and communities.

About Ontario Horticultural Trades Foundation

OHTF is the research and scholarship arm of the horticultural industry. The purpose of the Foundation is to support research and scholarships. In this way it plays a leading role in developing the future of the industry.

For further information: Isabel Dopta, Director, Communications and Stakeholder Relations, Vineland Research and Innovation Centre, [phone], Ext. 791, [email protected], www.vinelandresearch.com; Tony DiGiovanni, Executive Director, Landscape Ontario, [phone], Ext. 304, [email protected], www.landscapeontario.com