February 23rd through the 26th marked the 2017 National Watermelon Convention in Incline Village, Nevada, USA. Many companies whom have a vested interest in the watermelon industry gather for several days to engage in educational seminars, networking and general discussions all in an effort to build the watermelon community towards continued success. Bayer’s Vegetable Seed division proudly partnered with this convention in many avenues to support the watermelon industry.

Apart of Bayer’s support was providing technical resources to the grower community. The United States is in the beginning stages of learning about the grafting movement of Watermelon transplants. In an effort to provide technical knowledge to interested growers, Francisco Lopez, Global Watermelon Product Specialist, provided a special presentation on solutions for grafting to the convention attendees. He covered the overall background and developments, benefits for grafting and general rootstock types. His presence within this industry event has helped position Bayer as a leader within this technical movement.

“With 103 years of history the NWA is one of the most successful grower associations. This wouldn't be possible without the continuous support and commitment of its members investing within the industry. As a seed company, Watermelon represent one of our biggest crops worldwide for our company and we depend very much of the success of this industry. We don't know what challenges and opportunities the future will bring, but one thing we know is that we will keep supporting the watermelon industry as much as we can, as we have been doing over the last years” An exert during an address to the convention attendees during the Saturday night dinner ceremony by Rafa Mora, Crop Sales Manager Watermelon, thus, verbally solidified Bayer’s commitment to the watermelon community, its industry and members.

A Bayer Vegetable Seeds initiative to help support the growth of memberships within the Watermelon associations received special recognition during the convention for the programs high level of success throughout 2016. This exclusive partnership between the National Watermelon Association and Bayer helped 39 new grower members join the association through the sponsorship of Bayer’s support. This recognition marked Bayer’s stake hold in their commitment to support the industry as a whole and lay the groundwork for its future success and longevity.

“This year’s NWA convention truly put a stamp on Bayer Vegetable Seed’s visible partnership with the watermelon industry and our commitment to support the National Watermelon Association. This could not be possible without the internal support of each and every team member having a shared vision, ability to contribute value to our customers and their dedication to excellence. It is with this persistent attitude and commitment that we will see continued success within the watermelon industry” Emily Stirlen, Watermelon Account Manager within the West Coast United States.