It has been a year since the Kiwifruit Plant Certification Scheme (KPCS) was introduced through the launch of the ‘Core’ Standard.

During this time the Scheme has gained momentum with nurseries and growers. To date, four nurseries have met the Standard and are now selling certified plants; and KVH is working with other nurseries who intend to meet the requirements of the Standard and join the scheme.

Over the last year KVH has consulted with nurseries and growers, and hosted two KPCS workshops with members of the nursery, grower and science communities.

Engagement with the industry has been an important part of the development process and this feedback is now being incorporated to better improve the KPCS for nurseries and growers.

Yesterday an update was sent to all kiwifruit nurseries outlining the current status and future direction of the Scheme, and this included the move to one Standard only (initially a more rigorous, High-Health Standard was planned for development). The single standard will be no longer be referred to as the ‘Core’ Standard but the ‘KPCS Standard’. This change is reflective of the feedback and suggestions received from the nursery and grower communities.

• Click here to read the update and for more information about the Scheme and its future direction.

Matt Dyck, KVH Biosecurity