DATE: 1/2/2007

CONTACT: Dr. Jay Chapin, 803-284-3343, ext. 226; jchapin@clemson.edu

WRITER: Tom Lollis, 803-284-3343, ext. 241; tlollis@clemson.edu

Peanut growers to meet in Orangeburg Feb. 1

BLACKVILLE – Weeding out problems in peanuts will be a main focus for growers during the 2007 South Carolina State Peanut Meeting, which begins at 9 a.m. on Feb. 1 in Orangeburg.

Eric Prostko, a University of Georgia weed scientist, will be the guest speaker on production practices, according to Jay Chapin, Clemson Extension peanut specialist at the Edisto Research and Education Center.

“Eric knows our weed problems in South Carolina, and he will have some good information for growers on how to control them,” he said. “He enjoys talking to growers, and there will be an opportunity for questions and some one-on-one time.”

Tyron Spearman of Tifton, Ga., also known as “Mr. Peanut,” will give his perspective on the political and market outlook for peanuts in 2007. Dell Cotton, director of the Peanut Grower Cooperative Marketing Association will provide the outlook for Virginia type peanuts.

Other topics will include: grower rights in the grading process and an update on the S.C. Peanut Growers Association.

“Our program will emphasize using research results to get more profit out of our production plan,” said Chapin. “Growers will have an opportunity to meet with industry representatives and have a good meal.”

The meeting will be at the First Baptist Family Life Center, 2875 Columbia Road (Highway 21 North). The program will conclude around 3:15 p.m.

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