July/August 2011
Born to Lead
Todd Michael's first memory of working on the farm is driving the potato harvester at the age of 9. Not only did he learn the mechanics of growing potatoes early on, but he also developed a keen inter... more »
Bruise Control
Bruising leaves a heavy economic impact on many potato growers, resulting in the postharvest loss of thousands of dollars. But bruising is difficult to control because the bruises don't appear until long after harvest, preventing growers from locating impact points. »
Cover Crops
The notion of a plant-back period is well known for herbicide application and soil fumigation. This is the minimum period of time that should follow herbicide or soil fumigant application before crop planting. The plant-back period for most cover crops has not been established. However, for "hot" cover crops like rye, oilseed radish and other Brassica species, our program recommends a plant-back period of at least two weeks when adequate cover crop biomass are present during cover crop incorporation. »
Fueling Up Fears
Fueling Up Rising fuel cost impacts extend beyond transportation in the potato industry »
Locally Grown
On May 23, USDA implemented a final rule designed to encourage the consumption of local farm products in school meals. The rule - called the Geographic Preference Option for the Procurement of Unproce... more »
Potato Traceability
Growers and shippers all want their customers to know with unambiguous certainty that the potatoes they're purchasing are not only the highest quality and best nutritional value, but also are safe. The produce industry has come together as a whole to make sure that happens across the board. That effort is the Produce Traceability Initiative (PTI). The initiative launched in October 2007 by Produce Marketing Association (PMA), Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) and United Fresh Produce Association (United Fresh). Its efforts continue today. »
Selling Direct
Maine potato grower sells direct to consumers from roadside standDan Stewart got an early start in farming in Aroostook County, Maine, growing round whites, Superiors, Kennebecs and russets on 100 acr... more »
USPB, Idaho Potato Commission at odds over national brand
The use by retailers and shippers of the U.S. Potato Board's (USPB) "Potatoes: Goodness Unearthed" mark as a dominant brand element on packaging has resulted in complaints from the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) that the use of the nutritional message can be construed as a national trademark by consumers and competes against Idaho's own "Grown in Idaho" trademark. »
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