The 8th annual Wisconsin Hazelnut Field Day will introduce attendees to the emerging new crop of bush-type hazelnuts and the Wisconsin Hazelnut Production Trial. Jason Fischbach, UW-Extension Food and Energy Woody Crop Specialist, will present an overview of hazelnut production in Wisconsin and provide information to beginning growers on plant selection, establishment and management. We’ll then tour Hazelnut Production Trial planted in 2011 and learn about ongoing efforts to improve the genetics of hazelnuts. Hazelnut growers, current or prospective, are encouraged to attend. The field day is free and open to the public, but pre-registration is encouraged by contacting Jason Fischbach at 715-373-6104 ext. 5 or jason.fischbach@ces.uwex.edu.

Wisconsin’s hazelnut industry is new but growing, with more than 90 growers experimenting with hybrid hazelnuts produced from crosses between American hazelnut (native to WI) and European Hazelnut. The annual Wisconsin Hazelnut Field Day is intended to assist growers and help the fledgling industry grow in Wisconsin.

Anyone interested in hazelnuts can learn more at the website of the Upper Midwest Hazelnut Development Initiative at www.midwesthazelnuts.org.