SAGE: Meet Lewis Jett - Post-Harvest Handling Practices for Top Quality Produce

Join Dr. Lewis Jett, a Commercial Horticulture Specialist with WVU Extension Service, as he discusses appropriate production practices, careful harvesting, proper packaging, storage, and transport that all contribute to good produce quality.  SAGE growers will be in attendance but the workshop is open to the community at-large.

This course covers post-harvest practices suitable for small-scale operations, and points out the importance of production and harvesting techniques for improving quality and storability.  Various methods for cooling fresh produce are discussed, and resources are provided for further information, equipment, and supplies.

Advance registration is required. Register by clicking the blue button at top left. If you work with an Alliance member business and need assistance locating your password, email Leigh Anne Strickland - Director, Member Programs & Services.

Learn more about the Alliance's SAGE program here. Also download this PDF for additional information: Why Sustainable Agriculture?


About the speaker:

WVU Extension Specialist –
Commercial Horticulture

Irrigation methods, fertilization and pest management, seasonal techniques and post-harvest handling of fruits and vegetables are all important parts of maintaining a healthy, rewarding garden. Lewis Jett, West Virginia University Extension Service’s specialist in commercial horticulture, educates West Virginians on these methods.

Jett has worked with Extension since 2007, specializing in the growth of vegetables and small fruit crops. He is passionate about his work, developing practical, economical production techniques for commercial vegetable growers and embarking on tours, workshops and production meetings that help growers expand their output.

Recognizing the importance of new technology in gardening, he has worked to evaluate low-cost tunnels for extended production of high-value small fruits and vegetables. He continually works to obtain funds for horticulture development and acts as a resource for commercial growers across the state.

Before Jett came to WVU Extension, he conducted research at Louisiana State University and the University of Missouri, Columbia. He has also spent time in East Africa, helping small farmers in Kenya grow vegetables. He earned his bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics from West Virginia University, and he went on to earn both his master’s and doctorate degrees in horticulture from Virginia Tech.

Jett can be reached at 304-293-2634 or Lewis.Jett@mail.wvu.edu.