ORGANIC FEATURE 47 Organic Feature | Promotional Supplement December 2024 As the demand for sustainable agricultural practices grows, the organic dry bean sector is poised for significant transformation. The European Union (EU) Green Deal mandates that 25 per cent of agricultural production meets organic standards by 2030, a crucial consideration given that much of Ontario’s bean production is exported to Europe. Innovative research is essential to enhance yields and competitiveness, and one of the key figures in this field is Dr. Robert E. Nurse. Interview with Dr. Robert E. Nurse: Research Scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Research Focus Dr. Robert E. Nurse’s path into sustainable weed management began at Agriculture Canada in 2004, where he researched herbicide use and regulation as a postdoctoral student. Now as a research scientist backed by Organic Science Cluster 4, he leads innovative projects to reduce herbicide dependence, particularly in dry bean cultivation. His research explores alternatives like sand blasting, cover cropping, and tillage to optimise weed control and boost crop yields – key strategies as demand for herbicide-free, organic farming grows. Nurse’s work is driven by the rising problem of herbicide resistance, where overuse has led to weeds that no longer respond to conventional methods. In dry beans, this issue is further fueled by increasing consumer demand for pesticide-free products and the push to expand organic exports to the EU. With organic dry bean acreage expected to surge by 2030, Nurse’s research offers crucial solutions for growers grappling with ADVANCEMENTS IN ORGANIC DRY BEAN AGRONOMY Courtesy of The Organic Council of Ontario
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