AHDB seeks growers to bolster expert panels

AHDB Horticulture has put out a call for new growers and “strategic thinkers” to join their expert panels to help advise on future research projects and ensure levy payers get value for money.

As many as 25 vacancies exist on the six crop sector panels which include soft fruit, field vegetables, bulbs and outdoor flowers. The three-year tenure will start from January 2020.

AHDB research director Bill Parker said: “We are looking for progressive and innovative growers who are experts in their field to help us shape the work we do at AHDB.

“Their time on the panel will be against a backdrop of Brexit, labour shortages, rising automation and robotics and reduced crop protection armoury.

“We need strategic thinkers who are passionate about their sector to help drive the industry forward and direct their levy investment in the right projects.”

Panel member Mark Eves appealed to fellow growers to get involved.

“It’s their money and they need to steer where that money is being used,” he said.

“I’ve been on the panels for a number of years and it’s amazing what you can learn, not only from the work being done, but meeting with like-minded growers.

“It’s us growers who bring the ideas back down to earth and make it work for the industry.”

To join the panel the candidate must be employed by a horticultural levy payer.

For full details about vacancies and how to apply, visit ahdb.org.uk/ horticulture-panels