Aug 22, 2006Idaho to Receive Additional $13 Million for Potato Cyst Nematode Surveys
U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns announced Aug. 22 an additional $13 million to fight the spread of potato cyst nematode (PCN) in Idaho.
This brings the total to about $15 million, all of which is immediately available, Johanns said. The money will be used for survey equipment costs to test Idaho fields for PCN infestation. Johanns said the additional funds were a boost” to the work already being done.
Federal and local officials have worked with potato growers and industry groups to track PCN findings. Pat Takasugi, director of the Idaho Department of Agriculture called the response a “model for dealing with pests.”
Johanns made the announcement during the World Potato Congress in Boise, Idaho.
“
