11:45 am - 12:45 am - Unlocking the Cannabis Genome: Harnessing Genomics for Advanced Breeding and Resilient Crops
This session delves into the powerful role of genomics in cannabis and modern agriculture. Panelists will introduce key concepts in cannabis genomics, discuss the current landscape of genetic knowledge, and highlight the unexplored potential within the cannabis genome. Attendees will discover how genomics is uncovering genetic diversity and enabling the identification of valuable traits, from pest resistance to enhanced yield. Through tools like marker-assisted selection (MAS),genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and genome editing (CRISPR), participants will learn how to leverage these innovations in breeding programs. Case studies will showcase the practical applications of genomics, demonstrating its transformative impact on developing resilient, high-performing cannabis varieties.

• Moderator: Karl Ravet
• Panelists: Michael Petersen, Todd Michael, Kevin McKernan, and Gabriel Krouk

Key Topics Covered:

• Fundamentals of genomics in agriculture and cannabis

• Current understanding and mysteries within the cannabis genome

• Exploring genetic diversity to pinpoint valuable traits

• Advanced breeding tools: MAS, GWAS, and CRISPR

• Real-world case studies in genomics-driven breeding success

12:45 pm - 2:45 pm - Poster Presenter Lunch

2:45 pm - 3:45 pm - Genetic Stability in Cannabis: Genomic Innovations for Consistent and Resilient Cultivation
This panel explores the critical role of genetic stability in cannabis cultivation and how genomics is transforming breeding practices to ensure consistent, high-quality traits across generations. Panelists will discuss foundational concepts like inbreeding, hybrid vigor, and genetic bottlenecks, shedding light on the unique challenges faced in cannabis breeding. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge genomic tools and techniques that accelerate the stabilization of desirable traits, creating robust and uniform cannabis strains. Through practical applications, this session will illustrate how genomic insights can enhance reliability in cultivation, leading to greater resilience and product consistency.

• Moderator: Mike Catalano
• Panelists: Lasse Schulze, Zachary Wise, Alisha Holloway, and Maria Rojas

Objective: Showcase how genomics enables stable trait inheritance and faster selection processes in cannabis breeding.

Key Topics Covered:

• The role of genetic stability in consistent cannabis cultivation
• Challenges of inbreeding, hybrid vigor, and genetic bottlenecks
• Genomic tools and strategies for maintaining genetic consistency
• Practical application: Developing stable cannabis lines through genomics

3:45 pm - 4:00 pm - Afternoon Break

4:00 pm - 5:00 pm - Revolutionizing Cannabis Cultivation: Genomics, Microbiome Science, and Pest Resistance Strategies
This panel brings together industry and research leaders to explore the latest advancements in cannabis genomics and microbiome science, focusing on their transformative impact on cultivation. Attendees will learn about cutting-edge DNA sequencing technologies and how they enhance breeding programs to support genetic stability, increase disease resistance, and boost yields. The session will also dive into the role of plant-associated microbiomes, uncovering how microbial communities influence cannabis health, resilience, and pathogen resistance. Through real-world case studies and practical insights, panelists will demonstrate how these innovations are setting new standards in sustainable cannabis cultivation.

• Moderator: Kevin McKernan
• Panelists: Zamir Punja, Soren Seifi, Michael Deyholos, Maria Rojas, and Punya Nachappa

Objectives:

• Advances in Cannabis DNA Sequencing:
  • Explore recent technologies and methods in cannabis DNA sequencing.
  • Highlight how sequencing is revolutionizing breeding programs for disease resistance.
• Understanding Microbiomes in Plant Health:
  • Examine the link between cannabis microbiomes and plant health, disease susceptibility, and pathogen resistance.
  • Identify key microbial communities that promote plant resilience.
• Enhancing Disease Resistance Through Genomics:
  • Discuss how genomic insights inform breeding for disease-resistant strains.
  • Consider how genomics can be integrated with agronomy practices for pathogen control.
• Practical Applications in Cultivation:
  • Present case studies where DNA sequencing and microbiome management have led to improved yield, health, and disease resilience.
  • Discuss the scalability of these innovations for commercial cannabis growers.