Two workshops are being held next week for potato producers interested in learning more about potato health management. The workshops will be conducted by Dr. Randall Rowe, a professor of plant pathology at Ohio State University, who has extensive experience with fungal diseases including late blight. The workshops are being sponsored by the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, the Primary Resource Development Program and World Wildlife Fund - Canada.
Dr. Rowe advocates an holistic approach to potato health management that results in a quality product produced with due regard for environmental guidelines while yielding a reasonable profit for the producer.
"North American agriculture is currently undergoing many fundamental changes that require new approaches to crop management," said Dr. Rowe. "Emphasis has shifted from maximizing total yield and control of pests to maximizing total economic return, food safety and environmental protection."
Rachael Cheverie, Integrated Pest Management specialist with the department, says holistic potato health management is an important part of an IPM program. "It may be an effective tool in helping producers reduce risks from pesticide use," she said.
Support for the industry's goal in reducing the use of pesticides is a major component of the Food Strategy for Prince Edward Island.
The workshops will take place at the Dutch Inn in Cornwall on June 26 at 7:00 p.m. and at the Loyalist Inn in Summerside on June 27 at 1:30. All potato producers are encouraged to attend.