Workshop in Larino to improve Pruning Skills of Agricultural Operators in Molise region
17/10/2024
On October 8th and 9th, 2024, a workshop aimed at improving the pruning skills of agricultural operators in Molise region was held by the Municipality of Larino, the Lead Partner of the VERA project, at the San Pardo Agricultural Technical Institute, in Larino, an extensive facility where students and operators apply agricultural techniques.
The event, featured in-depth discussions on pruning techniques, phytosanitary management, and sustainable harvesting practices, provided a platform for dialogue among agricultural professional, led by Professors Antonio de Cristofaro and Sebastiano Delfine from the Department of Agriculture, Environment, and Food at the University of Molise.
During the first day, many experts took part during the two-day workshop, starting with Professor Giovanna Lepore, who, after delivering an introductory speech, highlighted the main topics of the event and emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices. Mr. Mauro Calise, Project Manager of the project on behalf of the Municipality of Larino, followed with a summary of the project’s scope, achievements, and the cross-border student exchanges that facilitated knowledge-sharing with peers from Croatia. Professor Daniele Gagliardi also shared valuable insights, outlining the importance of permaculture in promoting water conservation and biodiversity. Then, Professor Antonio De Crisofaro led an in-depth session on managing the phytosanitary health of olive trees in both traditional and intensive farming systems. Participants were guided through the "catalogue field" of the Agricultural Technical Institute, where they learned to identify diseases and damage in olive groves and explored various biological control methods.
On October 9th, additional presentations by local professors continued the workshop, before concluding with a final feedback session from participants, followed by a presentation by Professor Sebastiano Delfine on sustainable olive grove management. His session focused on soil management practices and pruning techniques, designed to maximize harvest efficiency, cultimating in hand-on exercises where participants practiced the polyconic vase pruning method.
The workshop was an important step in strengthening the skills of local agricultural operators and promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Molise.
Relive rhe two days of the workshop through the photos below!
