- Author: Pamela S Kan-Rice
The Lindcove Research and Extension Center proudly hosted its annual Citrus Fruit Display and Tasting event on Dec. 13 and 14.
This vibrant gathering showcased 200 varieties of classical varieties and the latest citrus varieties.
“We had an amazing turnout on Dec. 13 with our growers and high school students during our annual Fruit Display and Tasting at UC Lindcove Research and Extension Center,” said Ashraf El-kereamy, Lindcove REC director.
On that first day, growers were invited to taste the varieties, which offered them insights into innovations and advancements in the industry. About 100 growers and other professionals and 150 high school students participated.
Fruit judging is another activity at the event, during which the students learn about the perfect citrus fruit and all types of fruit disorders that can affect the value of the fruits and render them unmarketable.
“This year we hosted students from 15 high schools from across California,” El-kereamy said. “The event is also supported by local officials and legislators, who recognize its importance in promoting agricultural education and community engagement. Their support highlights the collaborative effort to strengthen ties between the agricultural industry, policymakers, and the broader community.”
Christopher Greer, assistant agricultural commissioner of Tulare County, (not our UC IPM advisor Chris Greer) posted photos of the event on LinkedIn.
“The GROW Tulare County team and the County of Tulare Board of Supervisors Representatives Larry Micari and Eddie Valero joined the Tulare County Ag Commissioner Tom Tucker and Assistant Ag Commissioner Christopher Greer for a special visit to the UC Lindcove Fruit Display,” Greer wrote. “There were a variety of citrus fruits available to taste, with so many community members in participation.”
On Dec. 14, the public was invited to attend the event, which served as a platform to engage the community by celebrating the significance of citrus. About 500 people came out.
“Families and children had the opportunity to explore the world of citrus through hands-on educational experiences, learning about its nutritional value and economic importance,” El-kereamy said.
The annual UCLindcove fruit display andtastings, held every December, foster a deeper connection between the agricultural community, the public and UCLindcove Research and Extension Center as a representative of the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources.
