Dr. David Percival, a professor of whole plant physiology in the Faculty of Agriculture's Department of Plant, Food, and Environmental Sciences, has earned a spot as one of three finalists of a Public Impact Award presented by Research Nova Scotia.
The award is presented as part of the Discovery Awards program that honours those who put science achievement in the minds of the local community, along with serving as role models for youth who will be the innovators of the future.
The awards will be presented November 23 at the Halifax Convention Centre.
鈥淚 am so pleased to see one of our most dedicated researchers being recognized in this way," says David Gray, dean in the Faculty of Agriculture. "Dr. Percival is a great example of how researchers can work with industry partners to make a significant difference to the economy of our region and the country.鈥�
A Public Impact Award recognizes a Nova Scotian researcher whose work has benefited Nova Scotians by tangibly improving the economy, environment, healthcare system, or society. The recipient鈥檚 work has developed in response to the needs of society, and is solving a problem, managing a risk, or creating an opportunity for Nova Scotians.
Twenty-six year industry partnership
For 26 years, Dr. Percival has undertaken wild blueberry research and development activities and has been instrumental in growing and strengthening the wild blueberry industry in Nova Scotia.
As director of the Wild Blueberry Research Program and as manager of the Wild Blueberry Research Centre, his research and close collaboration with industry has positively impacted growers, harvesters, and exporters across the province and beyond.
The wild blueberry industry relies heavily on research and innovation to improve yield. The industry's largest local producer, Oxford Frozen Foods, knew research was going to be key to growth and John Bragg, Chair of Oxford Frozen Foods, supported Dr. Percival's work in the mid 1990s. At the time, Dr. Percival was not sure what the Wild Blueberry Producers Association and the Bragg Group wanted him to focus on, despite having a list of research priorities.
In his first meeting with John Bragg, much-needed clarity was provided with the statement, "Your job is to find the technologies that will put more berries in the box."
Related reading: This emerging smart technology makes farming blueberries cheaper and more environmentally friendly
Impressive results
Dr. Percival's research and his collaborative support from industry has resulted in wild blueberry production in Nova Scotia quadrupling to more than 400 million pounds annually.
鈥淭he dedication and passion David brings to the wild blueberry industry as a researcher is unmatched and truly unlike anything I鈥檝e seen across the many excellent relationships our Faculty has within the