CONTENTS 06 The American Seed Trade Association's Farm Bill requests NEW VARIETIES ISSUE | NOVEMBER 2023 18 Weigh the pros and cons of drone ownership before buying FEATURES 06 Farm Bill wish list Conservation, research lead seed association's priorities 08 IPM Investigations Training session to help growers scout for signs of pests and diseases 10 Great Lakes EXPO Schedule preview 14 Keeping soil healthy Soil organic matter beneficial to sandy areas 18 Drone assignment Aerial tool can be costly; growers must consider pros, cons Including: 43 20 2023 Seed Showcase Companies highlight new offerings for 2024 58 Strawberry options Plasticulture, matted-row production 60 Farm Market & Agritourism Know your customers DEPARTMENTS 04 Editor's Letter 62 Ag Labor Review 64 Classifieds 66 Advertiser Index 20 The VGN Annual Seed Showcase On the Cover The Chocolate Sprinkles cherry tomato from PanAmerican Seed features a dark red and green striped exterior and purple flesh color. Photo courtesy of PanAmerican Seed. PAGE 20 VEGETABLEGROWERSNEWS.COM | 3http://www.VEGETABLEGROWERSNEWS.COM