The 2013 New Mexico Chile Conference is set to take place Feb. 4 and 5 at Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces. The annual conference is hosted by New Mexico State University's Chile Pepper Institute and features practical solutions for chile growers, processors and producers.
"This year's conference will cover lots of topics, including research-based solutions for disease and pest management," said Danise Coon, an NMSU agricultural research scientist. "Participants will also learn the latest updates on best management practices and food safety."
Conference speakers will also address genomics, including information about unraveling the chile pepper genome, the potentials of biotechnology, fungicides, curly top virus, food bio-security, direct marketing, social media and laws governing food safety and labeling.
Preregistration is $95 and must be postmarked by Jan. 25. Registration is available online at http://www.chilepepperinstitute.org, by phone at 575-646-3028 or by fax at 575-646-6041. At the door, registration is $110. Registration fees include conference activities, the Monday evening welcome reception, Tuesday lunch and coffee breaks and the traditional social hour and poster session immediately following the afternoon speakers.
Companies and individuals interested in a booth must call to reserve booth space as soon as possible. A six-foot table and tablecloth will be provided. Cost is $400 when preregistering or $450 at the conference. Booth registration includes admission for two people.
Hotel accommodations must be made separately. Special room rates for participants are available at Hotel Encanto de Las Cruces.
For more information about the conference, contact Coon at 575-646-3028.