Scotian Gold Cooperative Limited apple grower John Eisses and vice-president agriculture services Larry Lutz were honoured by the Nova Scotia Institute of Agrologists (NSIA) April 15,
Eisses, the recipient of NSIA’s Outstanding Farmer Award, has been farming in Northville for the past 40 years, developing a successful family farm. He is recognized as a leader in the industry and has contributed to the modernization of the apple industry in Nova Scotia. Understanding that research and personal development are key to success, Eisses has travelled extensively throughout the world, bringing back ideas for new developments and improvements to not only his farm, but sharing new technology with other Nova Scotian farmers. He was one of the first farmers to start high density orchard planting and was instrumental in the introduction of the Honeycrisp cultivar to the Valley. Eisses is involved in the board of directors at Scotian Gold and sits on the executive of the Nova Scotia Fruit Growers Association.
Larry Lutz honoured with the NSIA Distinguished Agrologist Award.
When Scotian Gold hired Lutz in 1992, they didn’t know he would be instrumental in the revitalization of the Nova Scotia apple industry. Lutz has travelled around the world to learn more about cultivation and technology advances in the industry, bringing back his newfound knowledge to Nova Scotia tree fruit growers. His influence on the industry, in particular with Scotian Gold growers, begins with orchard planning and creating the right varietal mix and continues through to harvest. He is currently president of the International Fruit Tree Association. Outside of work, Lutz, along with his wife, Janice, farm 72 acres of orchard just outside of Berwick. They often use their farm as a trial site for new varieties and techniques. Larry’s commitment to the industry, both currently and his focus on the healthy future of the fruit industry make him deserving of the Distinguished Agrologist Award.
