The 2013 Prince Edward Island potato conference and trade show will provide producers with an excellent opportunity to discuss new research and new developments in the industry, says Agriculture Minister George Webster.
“We are fortunate to have the participation of 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 Tuesday, February 12, beginning at 9 a.m. It is sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry.
This year’s conference includes presentations on diseases, research updates and technology trends. Dr. Rick Peters from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada will give an overview of the diseases that affected the 2012 crop. Dr. Gefu Wang-Pruski of Dalhousie University will discuss her recent research and the use pattern of phosphorous acids in her research trials. Dr. Christine Noronha will give an overview of the 2012 Click Beetle/Wireworm Survey that was completed in the spring of 2012. Steve Watts from Genesis Crop Systems will give an overview of the research being carried out on physiological age accumulation. As well, Dr. Yvan Pelletier from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Fredericton will give an update on his recent research on Potato virus Y.
The popular grower panel will focus on potato planter performance, and three Island operations will talk about planting the 2012 crop and the results they experienced. 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.”
The registration fee for the conference is $20, which includes a buffet lunch. Those interested in attending are asked to call 1-866-734-3276 or 902-368-4145. For a full conference agenda, visit gov.pe.ca/photos/original/af_agcal_potato.pdf.