All retailers, growers and suppliers are invited keep up to date on the newest legislation affecting ornamental growers at the British Ornamental Plant Producers (BOPP) AGM and Technical Seminar on Thursday 25 September 2014 at the Oak Tree in Stoneleigh Park, Coventry.

The event will bring guests together to learn about and discuss the current issues affecting the industry and also provide an update on the strategy and activities of the BOPP Scheme. New for this year, the seminar will include an interactive workshop session to delve further in to the individual topics affecting businesses.

A highlight of the programme will be a grower panel session focussing on Biomass boilers. Biomass technology offers the potential for growers to address rising fuel prices and to reduce their environmental impact, although for many there are unanswered questions about the practicalities of its implementation. BOPP members, including Richard Harnett, Kernock Park Plants and Simon Earley, Earley Ornamentals, will share their own experiences of installing the technology and answer questions from the audience.

The programme also features other industry experts including:

• Kerry-Ann Francis, SEDEX who will offer advice and guidance on ethical trading in the supply chain.
• Raoul Curtis-Machin, Horticultural Trades Association (HTA) who will provide an update on the work the HTA is doing to influence policy and offer advice on keeping up to date with the changes in legislation.

The seminar will also include an update on crop protection and new biocide regulations.

The AGM & Technical Seminar 2014 promises to be engaging, informative and interactive making it a must-attend event for all those looking to keep up to date with the latest legislation and important issues concerning British Ornamental Plant Producers.

Places cost just £15 + VAT for members and £25 + VAT for non members – just complete and return the form at www.the-hta.org.uk/events to book places today.