April 15, 2009
Landscape Ontario is pleased to welcome its newest staff member, Francesco Pacelli, who has filled the position of nursery technical analyst.  

Pacelli has an Honours Bachelor of Agricultural Sciences Studies and Technology degree from the University of Naples (Italy), which is recognized by the University of Toronto as a Bachelor of Science, with a Specialization in Agriculture. He successfully completed the Arboriculture Course, which included arboriculture, greenhouse management, soils and plant growth, at the University of Guelph.

In Italy, Pacelli worked as a research technician for the University of Naples. He has also worked as a nursery consultant on plant disease, insect control and fertilizer recommendations.

Pacelli moved to Canada four years ago and worked for Kraus Nurseries, where he was responsible for the pesticide management program. His duties there required him to be in constant contact with CFIA (Canadian Food Inspection Agency) regarding policies and procedures for pest control and plant movement.

In his new role as nursery technical analyst, Pacelli will help nurseries to become certified under the Domestic Phytosanitary Certification Program (DPCP) by providing assistance in manual writing or review and implementation processes as required. An important part of Pacelli’s duties will be the development of programs and communications to assist growers interpret, understand and respond to government policies along with interacting with Rita Weerdenburg, grower manager at CNLA. To reach Pacelli, contact Landscape Ontario at 1-888-211-5606, ext. 2377, or e-mail fpacelli@landscapeontario.com.