Biography

EDUCATION: PhD., Horticulture, Ohio State University, 1980 M.S., Horticulture, Ohio State University, 1978 B.S., Botany, Miami University, 1976. EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS: As Extension Specialist for Tree Fruit my duties include developing educational programs for fruit growers throughout the mid-Atlantic region. I am also in charge of the annual educational program for commercial tree fruit growers, the National Peach Council and the Wine Grape Growers in the region. This program is held annually at the Hershey Convention Center and has attendance from 6 surrounding states. Other extension duties include acting as leader of the tree fruit plan of work, coordinating the region wide program in extension for tree fruit, the plant analysis recommendations for tree fruit, pesticide and cultural recommendations for the tree fruit plantings at the Horticultural Research Farm, and Horticultural Section chair for the Pennsylvania Commercial Tree Fruit Production Guide. I am also the Editor of The Pennsylvania Fruit News. I teach a senior level tree fruit production course. Member PA Department of Agriculture Tree Fruit Improvement Board,. Volunteer work: Vice Chair of the Ferguson Township Planning Commission, member Ferguson Township Commercial & Industrial Development Authority. Participant in foreign farmer assistance/education programs in Swaziland, Egypt, Poland, Ecuador and Ukraine.