PEI POTATO CONFERENCE SET

The 2011 Prince Edward Island potato conference and trade show is an ideal opportunity for producers to discuss new research and development in the industry, says Agriculture Minister George Webster.

"Over the years, this annual conference has brought together leading researchers, industry personnel and producers to exchange the latest ideas and information," said Mr. Webster. "I encourage all potato producers to attend the conference which will cover a variety of topics of interest to everyone in the industry."

The conference and trade show will be held at Credit Union Place in Summerside on Wednesday, Feb. 16 beginning at 9 a.m. It is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture.

Among those making presentations at the conference are:

• Dr. Mario Tenuta from the University of Manitoba who will discuss green manures and organic amendments to manage Verticillium Wilt.
• Dr. Rick Peters from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will provide an update on potato disease management with research results from last year.
• Dr. Robert Coffin, who conducts research in Prince Edward Island, will provide an update on the impacts of lime and the effects of pH changes on potato yields, rotation crops and scab.
• Dr. Zenaida Ganaga from Cavendish Farms will provide information on research results and strategies to reduce nitrate leaching.
• Randall Jewell from HJV Equipment will focus on identifying planting and harvesting efficiencies.

Other updates will include virus research results and insect control. The trade show will feature more than 20 businesses that provide equipment, goods and services to the industry.

"The Prince Edward Island potato industry has achieved world-class status because of the many innovations that producers have continued to make over the years," said Mr. Webster. "We continue to move forward in producing high quality potatoes in an environmentally responsible manner."