microscope facility. “Our new laser scanning microscope is a valuable tool for obtaining high resolution images and 3-D reconstructions of thick specimens,” said Michael Weiss. This special microscope is an example of the many pieces of high tech research equipment at Summerland.


Visitors to the centre could also see the large variety of plant viruses in the Canadian Plant Virus Collection housed at PARC, learn about genomics, and experience winemaking in miniature by at the state-of-the art small-lot research winery.


Many people participated in a consumer survey on apple waxing and toured the orchard, vineyard and field plots used to study plant breeding and soil and water management.


Summerland biology teacher Diane Henderson brought students and her own two children to the open house. Jan Hanna, a commissionaire at PARC and captain of Penticton Army Cadet Corp. 788, brought 15 cadets in order “to expand their minds and


SUSAN MCIVER


Summerland resident Ruth Manning spent much of her childhood at the Summerland research station, where her father was head teamster and her mother ran the boarding house.


show them opportunities.” Research scientist Margaret Cliff said she was impressed by the high degree of interest and knowledge of the attendees.


At the end of the day, visitors left


knowing more about how science is being used to help improve farming and food, and the staff felt satisfaction at having the opportunity to share their knowledge and passion for their work.


British Columbia FRUIT GROWER • Winter 2011-12


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