Publications Mail Agreement #40030841 WIREWORM CONTROL CONTROL WIREWORM THE BENEFITS OF BRANDING OF BENEFITS THE IS BIFENTHRIN THE ANSWER? THE BIFENTHRIN IS Variable Rate Irrigation Rate Variable A NEW WAYA NEW GROW TO POTATOES DAYS FIELD FIELD Minimizing Bruising Minimizing Researchers Showcase Plot ShowcaseResearchers Plot AEROPONIC PRODUCTION AEROPONIC Trials Country the Across Best Practices for Practices for Best
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SpudSmart.indd 1 14-09-23 11:34 AM spudsmart.com your online potato business resource contentsfall 2014 Features 04 WIREWORM CONTROL The elusive Silver Bullet. 06 A NEW WAY TO GROW Could aeroponic seed potato production be the way of the future? 12 POTATO SHOWPLACE A look inside the Canadian Potato Museum in O’Leary, P.E.I. 18 MAKING A NAME How potato-based businesses can benefit from branding. 22 NUTRITION IN A COMPACT PACKAGE Ontario researchers studying health benefits of pigmented potatoes, and how to promote them. 24 A CHANGE OF SCENERY Airport hosts Potato Growers of Alberta South Field Day. 26 A BUG’S LIFE 12 Looking back at the colourful past of Colorado Potato Beetle.
Plus 36 EYE ON THE NATION Potato news from across the country. 06 Departments 02 FROM OUR DESK The benefits of field days.
FALL 2014
WIREWORM CONTROL IS BIFENTHRIN THE ANSWER? 32 ROUNDTABLE Best Practices for Minimizing Bruising Best practices for minimizing bruising. FIELD 26 DAYS 34 IN THE FIELD: BED PLANTING UPDATE Researchers Showcase Plot Recent study illustrates benefits of using this Trials Across the Country THE BENEFITS OF BRANDING alternative to ridged row planting. AEROPONIC PRODUCTION A NEW WAY TO GROW POTATOES Variable Rate Irrigation 44 TUBER TALK WITH LUKIE PIETERSE Assessing variable rate irrigation. Publications Mail Agreement #40030841 Publications Mail Agreement SPUDSMART.COM On the Cover: Kayly 48 MARKET NEWS Letkeman of Gaia Canadian crop production figures for 2014. Consulting collecting petiole samples for a nitrogen management 50 WORLD REVIEW plot test at the News and insights from around the globe. Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre, 52 AT THE ROOT which held a field trial Breaking industry news. tour for growers at its Carberry, Man., site in 56 GROWER SPOTLIGHT August. Alberta’s Windiana Farms 34
FALL 2014 1 FROMOURDESK The Benefits of Field Days Fall 2014 —Vol. 11, No. 4 By Mark Halsall Spud Smart is a resource for Canadian potato producers, and is dedicated to the promotion of innovation, sustainable success FIELD DAYS. Most potato-producing regions of the country saw and grower profitability. at least one of these this past summer, providing growers with the Subscriptions Canada CDN$45.00/year plus GST opportunity to learn about new varieties and agronomic practices, International CDN$95.00/year check out the latest farm equipment and technologies, and network Issues Ink with their peers and industry types. 6327435 Canada Ltd. And perhaps even as importantly, relax a little bit. 403-313 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3A 0M2 Phone: (204) 453-1965 Fax: (204) 475-5247 Peter VanderZaag, who was MC at the 2014 Ontario Field Day e-mail: [email protected] in Alliston, Ont. in August, will tell you one reason growers enjoy spudsmart.com going to field days is to get a bit of a break in their busy summer. Publisher “We’re focused on the grindstone, and then we sort of get a Shawn Brook [email protected] chance to say, ‘Hey, how are you guys doing, how are things going?’” Editor says VanderZaag. Mark Halsall [email protected] He feels field days are typically more relaxed that the off-season Editorial Julie Deering, Lindsay Hoffman, potato trade shows and conferences, and that for growers, connecting Shannon Schindle, Marc Zienkiewicz outdoors at a field day is a great way to catch up with their friends Editorial Advisor and neighbours. Lukie Pieterse “You’re out walking around looking at all this new equipment, Editorial Advisory Board and there’s more farm talk in a relaxed kind of atmosphere…. Plus Khalil Al-Mughrabi PhD; Pathologist, Potato Development Centre, New Brunswick Department there’s always good food,” he laughs. of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries The potato community is small, and in many respects a family. Benoit Bizimungu PhD; Scientist/Breeder, Potato Research Centre VanderZaag says for him, the highlight of this year’s Ontario Field Robert C. (Bob) Hamilton Product Manager, Potatoes & Vegetables, Engage Agro Day was when everyone gathered to congratulate his uncle, retired Jason Kehler grower Harry Jacob VanderZaag, on his 90th birthday. Owner/Manager, Kehler Farms Ltd. Keith Kuhl “His kids and his grandkids were there, and everybody Chairman, Canadian Potato Council Bill Moons sang Happy Birthday to him,” he says. “Everybody all thought Territory Sales Manager—Horticulture, Bayer CropScience it was great.” Rick D. Peters PhD; Research Scientist, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Janet Porchak MBA; National Marketing Manager, UAP Canada Tracy Shinners-Carnelley SPUD SMART staff and correspondents visited a number field day PhD; Director, Research & Quality Enhancement, Peak of the Market Bert Tupling events across the country this past summer. Owner/Shareholder, Tupling Farms Ltd. Contributor Lorena Pahl attended the Potato Growers of Alberta Peter VanderZaag PhD; Owner, Sunrise Potato South Field Day held in Taber, Alta. in August — her report can be Hubert Zandstra found on page 24. PhD; Director General Emeritus, International Potato Center At the University of Guelph’s Potato Research Field Day in Marketing August, we spoke to a couple of Ontario research scientists who [email protected] Craig Armstrong, Brenda Ezinicki, Maegan Marriott, delivered presentations on the important topic of potato nutrition. Sam Mostafa, Hiten Shah
That article is on page 22. Art and Production I was fortunate enough to attend a field day event myself. At Kyle Dratowany, Theresa Kurjewicz, Caleb MacDonald, Vince Mendella, Lesley Nakonechny the Potato Field Trial Tour hosted by the Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre in Carberry, Man., in August, I was able to see Circulation Dean French, Brad Gordon and hear about innovative research work in such areas as nitrogen management and variable rate irrigation (VRI). Spud Smart makes no expressed or implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose or otherwise, Tuber Talk on page 44 includes insights on VRI from agronomist concerning the use of any product and assumes no liability for any injury or damage, direct or consequential, incurred from the use of Alison Nelson, whom I met at the field day. Kayly Letkeman was one such products or services therein. Federal, Provincial, and Municipal of those hard at work in one of the nitrogen management test plots laws and regulations supersede the information contained herein. when I was out there that day — and her smile graces the cover of Publications Mail Agreement No. 40030841. this issue of Spud Smart. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Issues Ink 403-313 Pacific Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3A 0M2
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10258897-8.25x10.875_Titan Emesto.indd Bayer-106 4C-2014 Quiet Confidence Manny.Augusto 8.25” x 10.875” None 1 8.25” x 10.875” None -- 7.125” x 9.875” None 100% 8.5” x 11.125” 1 None None Bayer Crop Science 10258897 Helvetica Neue LT Std Spud Smart 10-2-2014 3:37 PM -- 10-2-2014 3:37 PM -- Rodrigues, Pedro (TOR-MCL) -- Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black -- -- FEATURE Controlling WIREWORMS As the situation worsens in potato fields in Prince Edward Island and other areas of Canada, the search is intensifying for a chemical replacement for Thimet. Is bifenthrin, the active ingredient in recently registered pesticide Capture, the answer?
WITH WIREWORMS on the rise in Canada products and they are — and the main weapon against them soon therefore being withdrawn to be taken off the market — it’s a question from registration. The that’s top of mind for many potato producers strategy developed for these days. wireworm risk reduction Is there another silver bullet out there is thus centered on the that will take the place of Thimet? need to find lower risk Wireworms are thin, hard-bodied larvae replacement pest control of the click beetle that feed on the roots of products and practices for cereals and other crops including potatoes. the control of wireworm in In recent years, Thimet 15G has been the Canadian agriculture.” insecticide of choice for potato growers Under the strategy, researchers fighting to control this voracious pest in have been investigating new options for the hardest-hit areas of the country, such as wireworm control, which include numerous Prince Edward Island where producers have initiatives involving different combinations been plagued by wireworms for years and of crop rotations as well as insecticide the problem continues to worsen. efficacy studies. Tuber containing mature larvae However, Canada’s regulators are Many in the industry have held out of the Pacific Coast wireworm, phasing out Thimet as a result of environ- hope that fipronil, a successful weapon Limonius canus. mental concerns, and the organophospate against wireworms in potatoes in the United insecticide will no longer be available for use States, could be the silver bullet to replace on potatoes as of Aug. 1, 2015. Thimet and provide effective, long-lasting their strategies involved combining very This move is part of the National control of the pest in Canada. low amounts of fipronil with low amounts Pesticide Risk Reduction Strategy Fipronil, however, isn’t registered in of an neonicotinoid insecticide, creating for Wireworm, devised by Agriculture this country, and it’s up to the chemical an effective treatment for wireworms in and Agri-Food Canada along with industry to decide to pursue registration cereal crops. Health Canada’s Pest Management of the product for use on potatoes in “It (fipronil) was a perfect fit for Regulatory Agency. Canada. That hasn’t happened yet and wireworm control in Canada,” says Vernon, The AAFC’s webpage outlining the isn’t likely to anytime soon, according to adding that the low dosage of fipronil used strategy states: “Traditionally, wireworms Bob Vernon, who leads an AAFC national in his wireworm treatment — less than one have been controlled using organophosphate wireworm research project. gram of fipronil per acre — would result insecticides. There is significant risk Vernon says a top priority for his team in a much lower environment impact than associated with the use of organophosphate is finding a replacement for Thimet. One of Thimet, for example. 4 SPUDSMART.COM New Product on Market There may be hope on the horizon, however. The industry is welcoming a new weapon against wireworm this year with the introduction of Capture. Registered by FMC for controlling wireworm in potatoes and raspberries this past May, the new insecticide features a synthetic pyrethoid known as bifenthrin as its active ingredient. “Bifenthrin does not degrade in light or soil like regular pyrethoids and will give the growing season control of wireworm damage,” says McMillan, FMC’s business manager for Eastern Canada. McMillan says the company’s bifenthrin product is known as Brigade in the United
States, and that it’s has been used extensively All photos courtesy of Wim van Herk. for many years to control wireworm damage Mature larvae of the Hypnoidus bicolor (top) and Selatosomus destructor, the two in potatoes south of the border. However, most important wireworm pests in the Prairie provinces. he sounds a cautionary note for Canadian growers hoping for a silver bullet. “It’s not the silver bullet that’s going to eliminate the wireworm issue,” he says. works quite well. Because the product whether wireworms are actually killed by “Wireworms are still going to be an issue. in not systemic, he adds, the best results Capture, or if they are just being repelled or But Capture certainly provides a protective were produced when Capture was used suppressed by the chemical. zone like Thimet to help protect the tubers in combination with a neonicotinoid Vernon says the fact that some grow- against wireworm attack.” insecticide like Titan or Admire to provide ers have been able to trial Capture on their McMillan maintains Capture studies above-ground protection against pests like own farms this year will go a long way to- conducted in Canada over the past Colorado potato beetle. wards determining the product’s efficacy few years have concluded the product on a large scale. compares favorably to Thimet in controlling “Wireworm “I’m somewhat optimistic about wireworm damage. populations right bifenthrin, but I’m a little worried that we’re He says growers in Prince Edward going to be taking one product off the market Island have used Capture on potato fields across Canada and simply replacing it with another, leaving this summer for the first time and they will farmers with just one chemical,” he says. “It be able to evaluate for themselves how the are growing and would be great to have two products that pesticide stacks up against Thimet. McMillan in some areas you can use to combat this pest in terms of says his preliminary observations during a resistance and that sort of thing.” recent visit to Prince Edward Island looked they are reaching Vernon also stresses the urgency of very promising, indicating that Capture epidemic levels. having a proven alternative to Thimet would likely give the same tuber protection in place and readily available for potato from wireworm that Thimet does. And if we don’t have producers — before Thimet is taken off the Tracy Shinners-Carnelley, research and market next summer. quality enhancement director for Manitoba’s something that will “Our farmers have to have something Peak of the Market, says with the clock is control them, then that gives them exceptional control, ticking down on Thimet, growers are eager especially in Prince Edward Island where for any good news related to alternative we’re in big trouble.” wireworm pressure is extremely high and wireworm treatments. Bob Vernon getting higher,” he says. “There is certainly interest to try “This is also happening on the Prairies bifenthrin on a field scale at the farm level “Bifenthrin, along with a neonicotinoid, — wireworm populations right across to get a good sense of how it really does appears to give the same level of crop Canada are growing and in some areas they compare to Thimet,” she says. protection in general as Thimet does,” are reaching epidemic levels. And if we Vernon and his team have assessed says Vernon. He stresses, however, that don’t have something that will control them, the efficacy of the new insecticide in plot additional field studies and continued then we’re in big trouble.” trials and he says in trial work, bifenthrin research are required to adequately assess Mark Halsall FALL 2014 5 FEATURE A NEW WAY TO GROW Could aeroponic seed potato production be the way of the future in Canada? Researchers are working to figure that out.
CANADIAN RESEARCHERS are experi- produce 10 times more seed potatoes than menting with a new method of growing traditional greenhouse methods would seed potatoes, and the results look prom- serve to make Canada more competitive in ising. Scientists at the Alberta Agriculture the seed potato market. and Rural Development Crop Diversifica- “I think there’s a lot of potential for tion Centre say aeroponic potato produc- aeroponics in Canada, because we need to tion — which essentially involves growing increase our productivity. We’ve got our potatoes in air, rather than soil — has the cost of production as low as we can go with potential to revolutionize how seed pota- the methods we’re using now, and we’re toes are grown in Canada. not keeping pace with import material,” Potato research scientist Michele she says. “We need to make sure we have a Konschuh, based in Brooks, Alta., is value chain here that’s healthy and strong, leading the evaluation of a commercial and everyone in the value chain has to be aeroponic production system for seed able to make a profit. We feel this might be potatoes. The technology being studied a way to do it.” is the Vital Farms Potato Incubator PIP- 200, an aeroponic seed potato production Playing Catch-Up system from NorthBright Technologies in Canada is a late arrival on the aeroponic Chicago designed to optimize the yield and potato production scene, notes Canadian quality of seed potato mini-tubers. potato grower Peter VanderZaag of The potatoes — Konschuh and her Ontario’s Sunrise Potato Storage. team are harvesting their fourth round of VanderZaag serves on the board of trustees tubers from their greenhouse —are grown of the International Potato Center (CIP), suspended in air and fed through misting. whose mission is to work with global She hopes the technology will allow partners to achieve food security, well- researchers to grow significantly more seed being, and gender equity in root and potatoes per plant than is currently possible tuber farming and food systems in the using traditional greenhouse methods. developing world. “In a regular greenhouse, we get an VanderZaag used to work as a CIP average of one to five tubers per plant scientist and university professor in Asia. in potting mix. In the aeroponic system, One of his former graduate students, we’re aiming to get 10 times more than He Wei, led a Chinese project that used that,” she says. “Right now, I think 10 to aeroponic technology to grow mini-tubers 20 is realistic here. We’ve seen as high as after a devastating earthquake in China’s 17 tubers per plant on some of the varieties Sichuan province in 2008. we’ve grown.” VanderZaag says after earthquake, That’s significant, Konschuh says, there was an impetus to implement noting that the ability to use aeroponics to aeroponic potato production on a large 6 SPUDSMART.COM aeroponically in the 1990s. It’s been used in Vietnam as well. “NASA, back in the 1980s, wanted to have people living on Mars and the moon. Their research focused on how can we get plants to grow in air,” VanderZaag says. “This translated into many scientists thinking about how they could apply this to growing plants here on Earth, where we have to deal with pathogens which are detrimental to many crops, including potatoes.” It’s not just the elimination of pathogens that makes aeroponics ideal for potato growing, Konschuh notes. “Because aeroponics actually allows us to harvest above ground and not below ground, you can actually see the tubers form, and you can pick them when they’re the right size. If they’re buried in potting mix, you kind of have to take your chances until the end of the year, and if you go rooting around in there ahead of time, you’re likely to damage roots or the plant,” she says. “The main objective of aeroponics, in my view, isn’t so much to avoid using soil, but to try and get tubers of exactly the right size and a continuous harvest.”
Consistent Product Photo courtesy of Peter VanderZaag. Using aeroponics to produce tubers of the Aeroponically grown seed potatoes being harvested at the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Chengdu, China. same size is the reason many growers around the world are adopting this new technology. Konschuh and her team have scale — the World Bank gave funding “This has been an amazing story, received helpful advice on using the to Chinese authorities and CIP to begin where this start money to get this onto a PIP-200 from Hilko Bos, a Dutch grower large-scale research production of potatoes commercial scale has taken off. In Sichuan, who helped develop the technology. aeroponically to help those who had lost this is done on a huge scale, producing basic He began using aeroponics after tiring everything in the earthquake. seed through aeroponics,” VanderZaag says. of what he says was the inconsistent That research continues to be carried “The beauty is there are no diseases that can quality he was getting in seed tubers out at the Sichuan Academy of Agricultural be carried by the seed tubers from generation purchased from premium seed potato Sciences as well as by farmers in private to generation. There’s no bacteria or other producers in the Netherlands. greenhouses in China, and it has yielded pathogens that can infect the tubers. When “We were often disappointed with some impressive results. A research paper you grow them in soil that’s a problem, but the seed tubers we bought. We wanted to co-authored by VanderZaag, He Wei and with aeroponics it isn’t. You can control the have healthy seed potatoes and reduce the K.Y. Xie, Experience with aeroponics for pre- conditions perfectly. With misting, you get a number of field generations. Therefore, basic seed potato production in Sichuan, China, very high yield.” we produce mini-tubers in the greenhouse refers to tuber production as high as 75 Prior to its use in China, growers in and afterwards we only have three field tubers per plant, depending on the variety. South Korea began growing mini-tubers generations so diseases will not build up,” Bos says. It’s also economical, he adds. “Here in the Netherlands, it’s about 45 “I think there’s a lot of potential for aeroponics Eurocents (almost 70 cents in Canadian currency) per seed potato if you buy from in Canada, because we need to increase our a large producer. If you need a couple productivity. We’ve got our cost of production hundred thousand mini-tubers, you have to spend about 70,000 euros per year for as low as we can go with the methods we’re them all. We started to look at different ways we could do it by ourselves.” using now.” Bos has had success with the PIP- Michele Konschuh 100 (an earlier version of the PIP-200), FALL 2014 7 “The beauty is there are no diseases that can be carried by the seed tubers from generation to generation. There’s no bacteria or other pathogens that can infect the tubers. When you grow them in soil that’s a problem, but with aeroponics it isn’t.” Peter VanderZaag
hitting yield levels of more than 40 tubers has discovered that for herself. “We have per plant. Those yield levels are due in different growing conditions in Canada, part to the ideal climate that exists in the and we don’t grow the same varieties Netherlands and some of the specific they do there, so I’m not sure the levels varieties Bos grows, but a lot of hard work they’re seeing in the Netherlands are and trial and error has gone into it, as well. attainable here,” she says. “In the beginning we had to learn “We’re finding that in the about proper nutrition, moisture, all greenhouse, you need to know more those factors,” he says. “You have to about what you’re doing without have some knowledge about that to get Mother Nature helping you as much. a decent yield. There are always possible You don’t get air exchange with wind. improvements you can make. We’re very We’re finding that maybe we need to happy with how it is going right now.” supplement the CO2 in the greenhouse, Canada and the Netherlands are, of or bring in fresh air in the winter since course, half a world apart. What works we’re not venting to the outside like we for growers in Europe is not necessarily would in a field setting. It’s a learning going to work in Canada, and Konschuh process, that’s for sure.”
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© 2014. NACHURS ALPINE SOLUTIONS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. ALPINE and ALPINE MicroBolt are registered trademarks of NACHURS ALPINE SOLUTIONS. While such technical challenges do pose a potential stumbling block for growers looking to adopt aeroponic technology, VanderZaag notes that having almost total control over growing conditions is a major benefit of the technology. The major challenge, in his view, is to make aeroponics commercially viable in Canada. “It isn’t for the small person — it’s for [larger producers] to do,” he says. “It really comes down to whether it makes economic sense and farmers begin to say yes to it.” The economic viability of the PIP-200 is something Konschuh and her team are evaluating — it was brought to Brooks to be evaluated at the request of the Potato Growers of Alberta. “The economic threshold for us is likely 15 to 22 tubers per plant. If we can beat that, the system makes financial sense. If not, we recommend growers look at alternative systems, but there are none commercially available that I’m aware of,” she says. There are a lot of generic plans online
so people can develop their own aeroponic Photo courtesy of Zengguang Pan, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development. systems for potatoes, Konschuh adds. Alberta research scientist Michele Konschuh (left) is leading the evaluation of the PIP-200, Marc Zienkiewicz a commercial aeroponic system for growing seed potatoes.
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ANY CROP. ANY STAGE. ANY WEATHER. FEATURE POTATO SHOWPLACE
Someone suggested turning a small P.E.I. town’s local museum into a full-fledged international tourist attraction. The result is the Canadian Potato Museum.
A giant fiberglass potato welcomes visitors to the Canadian Potato Museum.
12 SPUDSMART.COM IF THERE’S A PLACE that’s more appropriate for the Canadian Potato Museum, you can make the argument that you couldn’t do better than the town of O’Leary in Prince Edward Island. P.E.I., of course, produces a large portion of Canada’s potatoes. O’Leary, a town with obvious Irish origins, is host to the annual Potato Blossom Festival in July and is situated in the heart of farm country, surrounded by the beautiful red rolling hills of the Island, about a 90-minute drive west of Charlottetown. POTATO When you’re there, there’s no doubt you’re in potato country. When I set out to visit the museum in mid-July, the shoulders of the No. 2 Highway to O’Leary sported many hand-written signs offering new potatoes, a crop that, by some accounts, came up two weeks late this year. Just before the turn-off into town, there was a bright red “self-serve” box of new potatoes on a private driveway, SHOWPLACE charging $5.50 for three pounds. Help yourself. But while the western end of Prince County (the westernmost of P.E.I.’s three counties) may be the ideal location for a potato museum, it wasn’t exactly planned, as museum manager Donna Rowley explained to me. “The original museum was a community museum,” she said. “Dr. George Dewar (the founder) had a passion for preservation. One consultant through the Community Museums Association [of
Prince Edward Island] made the suggestion that we change the All photos courtesy of the Canadian Potato Museum. focus of the museum.” This 1920’s tractor is among the vintage equipment featured at the The name changes of the place over the years show the Canadian Potato Museum. evolution of the facility. At one time, it was the O’Leary Potato Museum, then the P.E.I. Potato Museum. Now, it’s the Canadian Potato Museum. There also happens to be a museum called Potato machinery (including some pieces from the Allan Potato Handling World in Florenceville-Bristol, N.B., but it’s a newer facility. There Equipment company, an Island legend), an industry-specific hall are also a couple of potato-themed museums in the United States of fame, displays on the history of the potato, a lineup of potato and several in Europe. diseases (humorously displayed in a series of potato coffins) and an introductory film. Giant Potato The museum itself is a handsome building, just off the main strip of “Before the renovations it was a O’Leary, obvious for the gigantic, four-metre-tall fiberglass potato outside. Rowley says it’s one of the most photographed objects in good museum. Now, it’s a great this corner of the Island. museum.” Though several years old, the museum looks brand new, thanks to a recent renovation. Board member and volunteer Garry Linkletter Stanley MacDonald, who was dealing with admissions that day, offered some potato-based fudge at the entrance and mentioned Visitors will learn more than a few intriguing facts, like how it’s a 14,000-square-foot facility. There are also large museum the International Potato Center in Peru was at one time threatened grounds, with older preserved buildings from the community, by Shining Path guerillas, and that the French once considered revealing the facility’s initial O’Leary-focused origins. the potato a “dangerous aphrodisiac,” the ingestion of which may The museum, of course, contains the ingredients common lead to “large-headed children,” among other things. There’s also to an agricultural museum, including an area displaying older a beautiful cafeteria, and a small section devoted to O’Leary itself.
P.E.I.’s Video History Project
In August, the Canadian Potato Museum and the Prince Edward Island Potato Board announced the premiere of a series of online videos about the history of the potato on Prince Edward Island. The organizations hired retired CBC agricultural journalist Ian Petrie, and financed the project with help from the P.E.I. 2014 Fund, put in place to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the 1864 Charlottetown Conference, a major early step in the creation of Canada.
The video launch took place at the Canadian Potato Museum, with many leaders in the industry, past and present, attending. The video series is being played on a video loop at the museum, and can also be viewed at youtube.com/user/PEIpotatoes.
FALL 2014 13 www.GALLANTSALES.com Though not directly associated with the museum, Prince Edward Island Potato Board Chairman Gary Linkletter strongly SPECIALIZING IN POTATO EQUIPMENT believes in the value of the place. “I think the potato has been so important to P.E.I. over the years,” said Linkletter. “The museum’s a great place for Islanders to go to take a look at their roots, it’s great for people to see what the industry of their immediate ancestors HUGE INVENTORY AT WHOLESALE PRICING. was. Also, it’s extremely well done. Before the renovations it was a good museum. Now, it’s a great museum.” BACKED BY OUR SATISFACTION GUARANTEE. Linkletter specifically mentioned one of the displays — Live Bottom boxes, Telescopic Pilers, Conveyors, Evenfl ow Hoppers, Clodhoppers, Dirt Eleminators, the first two-row potato harvester built by Donnie Allan of the Harvesters, Windrowers, Seed Cutters, Treaters, Planters, Planter Fillers, Polishers, Felt Dryers, aforementioned Allan Potato Handling Equipment that he calls “a true piece of Island heritage.” Shaker Sizers, Rolling Tables, Baggers, Sewers....and much more! If we don’t have it, we will locate it for you! The P.E.I. Potato Board and the museum work together to put on the annual Toe Taps & Taters event, part of the P.E.I. Fall Displays at the Canadian Potato Museum include this 1929 Flavours Festival, where a celebrity chef is brought in to cook up horse-drawn potato sprayer. a potato-themed dinner to musical accompaniment. They also collaborate on other projects, like the recently unveiled series of The practice involving mussel mud also makes an interesting online videos about the history of the potato on Prince Edward appearance at the museum. P.E.I. potato farmers of the early 20th Island that’s also showing at the museum. century recognized the need for a better fertilizer on their fields, The museum is a seasonal one, open from mid-May to mid- and turned to what was surrounding them — mud from where October. Though off the beaten path, and a significant drive the local riverbeds met the ocean. It turned out the stuff was rich away from anything related to Anne of Green Gables, in those with lime from oyster shells, so it became a regular Island event six months, the Canadian Potato Museum receives about "NEW" Logan 24' Live Bottom Box to hook the horses up to a type of digger that would gather the 7,000 visitors, down slightly from a peak of 11,000 when the rich mud (one is on display). The eventual availability of cheap Confederation Bridge first opened in 1997. And Rowley also mainland lime put an end to the practice, except for one brief mentions that it’s tricky to guide people to the site. “Provincial revival in the 1980s. signage allows us one sign,” she said, mentioning there are laws 2010 Milestone 60" Seed Cutter, Only (1) Season Usage, Loaded Including Double Stacked Discharge Conveyors, Immaculate. Milestone, Liquid Seed Treater, Used Only 1 Day "NEW" Logan 85' Telescopic Conveyor, Other Lengths & Sizes Available Canadian Dealer for Tri-Steel Mfg CURRENT VARIETIES & Logan Farm Equipment.
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CONTACT DAVE AT GALLANT SALES: 568 Bernat Rd. Grande Pointe, Manitoba "NEW" Tri-Steel Felt Dryer 1-204-254-8126 [email protected] in place so as not to clutter the beautiful Island landscape with want to hit the potato-themed cafeteria, which offers potato fudge too many billboards for tourist attractions. (“We typically run out of it every day and have to make a new batch,” Rowley said), potato ice cream, chowder, P.E.I. potato Education is Key soup, chili cheese fries, poutine and loaded potato skins. “There When asked whether the museum is meant to appeal to people in the are no hamburgers or hot dogs,” said Rowley. industry or outside of it, museum manager Rowley said, “A little bit of Rowley also mentions a couple on their honeymoon did both; education is key. We offer tours free to schools…. the focus is on a farm tour. Prince Edward Island’s tourism sector is highly the history [of the potato] because there’s never been a museum with developed, and there is one particular in-depth tourism program that focus.” called Authentic P.E.I. Experiences, of which the Spuds, Fudge Aside from school tours, the museum plays host to many and Tales Farm Tour is one option. It includes a half-day of interested parties from far away, including seniors, New Englanders, activities that include visits to a potato farm and the Canadian off-season Australian and New Zealander farmers, and various Potato Museum complete with a cooking lesson (that includes the visiting Europeans. “We do get a lot of farmers here,” said Rowley. potato fudge recipe). “It’s amazing how many farm-related folks come here.” As far as goals for the museum, Rowley said, “Being a non- But the museum isn’t immune to the trendy, either. “There are a profit, you always want to be sustainable, to preserve what we lot of foodies that come through, too,” said Rowley. The foodies may have, and improve what we have.” Jim Chliboyko
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3929-160 Ave., Edmonton, AB T5Y 3J7 • (780) 218-7810 • [email protected] • www.14group.ca FEATURE MAKING A NAME There is a change transforming the Canadian potato landscape — it’s called branding, and it’s building momentum.
Eye-catching packaging is one way The Little Potato Company creates powerful brand recognition.
BRANDING HAS BECOME an increasingly Mills notes there is a highly “Maintaining our brand is important,” important dimension of business marketing, competitive food landscape, with other says Gietz. “We also have new packaging, as companies tussle to differentiate products like bread, pasta and rice and are now expanding our marketing themselves from their competitors in a competing for a place in shoppers’ food strategy through social media such as crowded marketplace. And many of those baskets. As a result, the board has also Facebook to offer more engagement with taking the step into branding say it’s a been working hard to dispel myths and our customer base through nutritional winning strategy. help consumers understand the nutritional information, recipes and comparative data.” The potato industry is no exception. value of potatoes. One of Manitoba’s largest potato Success stories include PEI Potatoes, The Little Potato Company is operations, Southern Manitoba Potato is Edmonton’s The Little Potato Company recognized as one of the most innovative being transformed into Southern Potato Co. and Manitoba’s Southern Potato Co., which potato marketers in Canada. According Re-branding efforts at the successful family have all embraced branding and re-branding to Joanna Gietz, the firm’s marketing firm are focusing not just on the company’s strategies as a way to optimize their manager, The Little Potato Company has long history and rich heritage in the potato customer reach. All three are continually adopted a branding strategy that continues business, but exciting opportunities in the working on brand and product awareness to open new doors, resulting in not only years ahead. both domestically and internationally. increased sales but also greater customer Marlon Kuhl, vice-president of fresh A marketing initiative of the Prince awareness across the country. and chipping potatoes for Southern Potato, Edward Island Potato Board, PEI Potatoes is arguably the strongest potato brand in the country. For the past few years, the board has focussed on determining the equity of its potato brand and maintaining its strong position in the marketplace. According to Kendra Mills, marketing director of the P.E.I. Potato Board, some large-scale research projects have helped increase understanding of customer awareness of PEI Potatoes, not only domestically but also abroad. “Our research has shown that consumer awareness in the province and across Canada is quite high, with our brand at 96 per cent,” states Mills. “When surveyed, most people associate Prince Edward Island with beaches,
golf, Anne of Green Gables and potatoes. Photo courtesy of Pixels. This is how marketing by place of origin is (Left to right) Marlon, Keith and Jeremy Kuhl of Southern Potato Co., a long-established family also helping expand our brand awareness.” business that recently adopted a new name as part of a strategic rebranding effort. 18 SPUDSMART.COM 28-30 July, 2015 Yanqing·Beijing·China
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Welcome to Yanqing County of Beijing Photo courtesy of Pixels. says that while they are very proud to be a work is by no means done. It’s just as “PEI Potatoes has aligned with other family-owned and run business since 1960, important to take steps to constantly agricultural-based industries such as beef they also want customers to know they are maintain that awareness. “Whether it is producers and the seafood industry to buoyant about the future of the company. your brand or your product, you need come together and create the Island as a “Along with a new branding strategy, to remain engaged with your consumer top culinary destination,” says Mills. “We we have also adopted the positioning line base,” says Gietz. “You need to remain have learned to market together because of ‘Growing Partnerships’ to show our on your toes, and have fresh and new we produce some of the best food around dedication to building and maintaining strong marketing ideas to keep consumers the world.” relationships in the industry,” says Kuhl. buying our products.” As an example, Mills points to the Kuhl notes that product quality is annual Shellfish Festival, which draws Maintaining Leadership essential to Southern Potato’s brand as many international visitors to the Island Many in the Canadian potato industry are a family-owned grower and distributor each fall to sample P.E.I’s culinary delights, not only embracing branding and social of potatoes throughout North America. including potatoes. media marketing, but are working hard to “With new specialty products coming on The Little Potato Company is also maintain leadership in the marketplace. market such as fingerlings and creamers, creating new footholds abroad, thanks “We all need to build a voice around we knew that strategic rebranding was to its successful branding campaign. our brands,” explains Mills. “It’s important essential to maintain and grow our “Internationally we have opened some new to remain focused on the brand because there presence in the industry,” he says. doors as customers can now identify with are high expectations as social media keeps our packaging and logo,” explains Gietz. its popularity. We need to remain relevant International Avenues “We are so excited to see success from our to consumers and be engaged with our As Canadian potato companies continue hard work and we plan to maintain and audience on a one-on-one basis.” to embrace and focus on branding and grow on this momentum.” Today’s social media tools also provide marketing opportunities here are home, The main takeaway from all three good measurements of audience likes there are also some tantalizing prospects industry specialists for successful branding and dislikes as well as providing a way to for increasing brand awareness at an is to know what makes you unique in the measure marketing/product reach, which international level. marketplace, and to use that to really stand according to Mills are important gauges for For instance, the P.E.I. Potato Board out at the retail level. “It’s essential that determining brand/packaging acceptance. has realized the value of co-branding consumers understand and know your Gietz agrees that once a brand with other partners to help strengthen brand and product offerings,” says Mills. is established in the marketplace, the the Island’s potato brand. Shannon Schindle
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Potato research scientist Reena Pinhero at work at her lab at the University of Guelph Department
Photo courtesy of Reena Pinhero. of Food Science. Nutrition in a Compact Package Two Ontario scientists are researching the health benefits of potatoes, particularly pigmented tubers, and how to share this knowledge with consumers.
POTATOES ARE AMONG the healthiest vegetables available to Aug. 13 at the U of G Elora Research Station near Guelph. Attendees consumers but the focus on reducing carbohydrate intake in many were told that the long-term goal of these projects is to maintain and, weight loss plans has given them a black eye. Now, two Ontario possibly, increase the sustainability of Ontario’s potato industry. research scientists are working to restore the potato’s healthy profile “In Canada, the cost of an unhealthy lifestyle is around $30 billion in an effort to re-educate the public and provide growers with more per year,” Cao says. “The problem relates to poor diet, such as too few information to share about the nutritional value of potatoes — fruits and vegetables, too much fat, too little fibre, and too little water particularly, the health benefits of coloured tubers. intake.” He says that potatoes fall into the “functional food” category Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researcher Rong Cao and because they offer solutions to many of these problems. Reena Pinhero of the University of Guelph’s Department of Food As part of his research, Cao is looking at the nutritional value Science spoke about their work at the Potato Research Field Day held of pigmented potatoes. The colour purple found in blueberries 22 SPUDSMART.COM and coloured vegetables such as potatoes is associated with health This research is designed to provide the potato industry with benefits because of antioxidant properties produced by anthocyanins, nutritional information on different varieties; identify varieties with a group of flavonoids responsible for creating the purple pigment. high antioxidant benefits, low glycemic indices, and glycemic loads; Cao believes consumers would be better served to get their nutrition and improve the sustainability of the industry. “Our goal is to offer from the source rather than taking commercial supplements to information to educate consumers about the benefits of potatoes,” replace nutrients “we think we lack.” Pinhero says. As part of his research, Cao is examining the phytochemicals Both Pinhero and Cao are committed to giving the potato that are found mostly on the skin, peel and seed coats of vegetables, industry concrete information that can be shared with consumers fruits, and grains, respectively. “These compounds are produced in an effort to restore potatoes to their primary perch as a North by the plants to protect themselves,” he explains. “But there are American food staple. Cao admits that Canadian societal tastes have subgroups, and each one works on different aspects of human health. changed and starch is now being ingested from many sources, such as For example, polyphenols are not only themselves antioxidants but pasta or rice. Where once every meal might have contained a serving also help to regenerate vitamins C and E. If these vitamins don’t of potatoes, consumers are no longer eating potatoes with that kind regenerate, they must be replaced often.” of regularity. Cao’s research might explain how pigmented potatoes can be Pinhero believes that pound for pound, consumers can get incorporated into our diet for increased health benefits such as an a higher amount of antioxidants from coloured potatoes than the improved antioxidant and anti-inflammatory defence system in equivalent amount of blueberries. She adds that “cent for cent, humans. According to Cao, all the bioactive phytochemicals need to potatoes are a much more valuable and economic way to get be stable in order for the body to absorb them, but that can be an issue antioxidants than blueberries. In addition, potatoes are available for during storage, processing or digestion. He says research shows that much of the year versus blueberries or other antioxidant-rich foods the body is better equipped to absorb these compounds by acquiring that are only available for a short time.” them through food, rather than pills. While many of Cao’s research results are available to the public, “Recent research shows that certain phytochemicals in potatoes, Pinhero is in the initial stages of her research with recommendations particularly purple coloured ones can significantly inhibit key expected in two to three years. In the meantime, growers can do their enzymes regulating blood glucose,” Cao explains. “We have also bit to spread the message about the nutritional benefits of potatoes found that coloured potatoes will reduce blood glucose level in by sharing some health facts that are already available. Growers can animals and humans. People are starting to ask for purple potatoes, also include new cultivars in their cropping plans to increase the but so far the industry has not been able to supply enough loose stock availability of antioxidant-rich coloured varieties for consumers. to satisfy consumer demand.”
Educating Consumers A new research project started in 2014 by the University of Guelph’s Pinhero will enhance the work of Cao and his team. Pinhero’s work is designed to help educate consumers about why potatoes are a healthy choice. She says most consumers don’t understand that potatoes offer good nutritional value for their cost. That’s the reason her research focuses on spreading the message. “Potatoes are a carbohydrate-rich food, which has made them undesirable,” Pinhero says. “But when consumed in moderation, potatoes do not contribute to weight gain. While the glycemic index of some potatoes reported are medium to high, that needs to be balanced against the amount per serving.” Potatoes are 80 per cent water and only 20 per cent carbohydrates, she explains. They are also high in vitamins B and C and potassium, and are a source of folate and iron. And as Cao’s research has shown, coloured potatoes are also high in antioxidants. While potato growers are familiar with the nutritional value of their crop, how to share this information and provide concrete proof can be challenging. “Our research will consider maturity, growing conditions and variety versus moisture content, protein, the structure and condition of starch, phytochemicals, glycemic index and glycemic load,” Pinhero says. She explains that it’s important to compare glycemic index with glycemic load because the glycemic index shows the potential of foods to raise blood glucose levels, while the glycemic load is the amount actually consumed per serving. Initially, Pinhero will analyse 11 to 15 early coloured potato varieties, such as Purple Fiesta, Dakota Pearl, Chaleur, and Adora. She will examine “the various components that could modify potato starch digestibility and the effect on glycemic index and glycemic load,” as well as other nutritional qualities. FALL 2014 23 FEATURE A CHANGE OF SCENERY Airport chosen for site of this year’s Potato Growers of Alberta South Field Day.
Kinniburgh Spray Services had several spray planes on display at the Potato Growers of Alberta South Field Day. Photo courtesy of Lorena Pahl.
POTATO GROWERS OF ALBERTA opted for Company reps explained how growers Hutterite Colony who grows Sangre, a a change in venue and format for its annual can maximize their production potential fresh potato variety marketed through South Field Day on Aug. 14, choosing the efficiently by managing specific areas Thomas Fresh. He said consistency in Taber Airport just outside Taber, Alta., for with different yield potentials within the producing an ideally sized, tasty potato is the site of this year’s event. field, as well as how accessing real-time the key to Sangre’s success. Hofer, who’s The field day attracted more than 130 data can assist with fungicide applications been attending the PGA South Field Day people and was held in collaboration with throughout the growing season. for several years, said he was definitely Kinniburgh Spray Services, a local aerial Other equipment dealers participating in favour of trying something new and crop protection firm that sponsored the in the event included Glas Equipment, different for this year’s event. location for the event. The company had Horizon Implements, Banga’s Equipment The field day featured a lunch several spray planes on display — a definite Canada and Growers Supply. sponsored by ATB Financial and Miyanaga crowd pleaser! Farms. Shaun Kinniburgh, president of Also featured were large machinery New Varieties on View Kinniburgh Spray Services, concluded the displays from Western Tractor and Rocky Freshly dug varieties from the PGA fresh day’s events by offering a free ride in one Mountain Equipment as well as a planter potato trials were also on view. All of the of the company’s spray planes. The winner from Chin Coulee Spud Farms of Coaldale, varieties are cooked and taste-tested by was announced through a friendly auction Alta. In addition, local grower, Lyle Ypma PGA staff members, who distribute potatoes that raised $800 for the Kidney Foundation of SLM Spud Farms in Taber showed off harvested from the test plots to local food of Canada. This was in recognition of his latest custom-built harvester. Ypma banks. According to organizers, the Butterfly Kinniburgh’s two brothers who were has built three harvester models over the potatoes, a yellow variety, were a hit in terms recovering in the hospital after a kidney past five years, modifying the equipment of taste. Bordeaux, a red-skinned variety transplant procedure. to accommodate his specific requirements with yellow flesh, looked to be a good for farming more than 3,000 acres of performer, while the nutty-flavoured Hot Lorena Pahl is the executive director of processing potatoes. Purples were said to retain their beet colour the Alberta Seed Growers’ Association. Farmers Edge, Trimble and Sunrise Ag when cooked. She attended this year’s PGA South Field of Taber were also on hand with displays During the field day, I spoke with Day event in Taber, Alta., and provides this report. focusing on variable rate technology. Andy Hofer, a member of the Enchant
24 SPUDSMART.COM Photo courtesy of Lorena Pahl. © 2014Lindsay. Allrightsreserved. Zimmatic,FieldNET, Growsmart, Watertronics andLAKOSare trademarksorregistered trademarksoftheLindsayCorporation anditssubsidiaries. THE LINDSAY LINDSAY THE ADVAN BROADEST LINE TECHNOLOGIES OF SOLUTIONS EASY TO USE TO EASY INTEGRATED DURABLE RUGGED TAGE THE BEST LINE OF IRRIGATION IRRIGATION OF LINE BEST THE Visit yourlocalZimmatic Visit Pumps, pivots,fi ltration and remote control allworktogethertomaximizeyouryields. make themostofyouroperation–from asingle,reliable source. Lindsay’s ruggedequipment,integratedtechnologies,andplug-and-playadd-onswill SOLUTIONS THAT ADDVALUE, REDUCERISK&INCREASE PROFITS. www.lindsayadvantage.com SOLUTIONS. PERIOD.SOLUTIONS. THE LINDSAY ADVANTAGE THE ® byLindsaydealertocustomizetherightsystemforyourneeds . Separators and FiltrationSolutions Separators andFiltration Solutions Separators andFiltrationSolutions Separators andFiltrationSolutions Separators andFiltrationSolutions FEATURE
A BUG’S LIFE The Colorado potato beetle has spread throughout North America and other parts of the globe, while repelling all efforts to eradicate it. Here’s a look back at the colourful past of this resilient — and highly vexing — bug.
THE COLORADO potato beetle is arguably In his book, Riley described in great the most devastating insect pest of detail the migration of the beetle as its range potatoes, with most of the damage done expanded across North America. Its appetite by its voracious larva. for potato was not known until 1859, when This pest occupies an interesting place early settlers west of Omaha, Neb., spotted in North American potato history. Its first the pest devouring their potato crops. discovery in the United States was in the The beetle quickly spread further Rocky Mountains in 1811, when it was eastward, often hitchhiking along the newly- found feeding on sand bur, a wild relative built railroads and moving across the U.S. of the potato. The name Colorado potato about 130 kilometers per year, on average. beetle is really a misnomer because it did By 1874, it had reached the East Coast. not originate in Colorado. Instead, it is In 1876, the New York Times reported believed to have come from Mexico. that Colorado potato beetles were For a while the beetle was known by hampering the progress of a train on the different names such as potato bug, ten- Central Railroad at the Grinnell Station. As lined beetle and ten-striped spearman. In reported in the newspaper, “the rails were
Photo courtesy of Walter de Jong. 1867, entomologist Charles V. Riley was the covered with them for a mile and after a The larva of the Colorado potato beetle first to coin the term Colorado potato beetle few revolutions of the drivers the wheels causes the most damage to potato plants. in his book, Potato Pests. lost the friction and slipped as if oiled.” 26 SPUDSMART.COM During or immediately after the First World War, the Colorado potato beetle became established around American military bases near the French city of Bordeaux. By the Second World War, the bug had spread across much of Europe.
During that war, both the Allies and Nazi Germany considered dropping Colorado potato beetles on each other’s potato fields. The German government claimed that American planes were dropping “Amikäfer”(Ami-beetles) over German potato fields and even set up a potato beetle defence service.
After the war, Soviet-controlled East Germany also accused the Americans of dropping potato beetles on its fields. The propaganda was reinforced by the publication of a large number of posters and treatises.
Although several governments conducted research on how to use the Colorado potato beetle in entomological warfare, there is no evidence that the beetle was ever used to attack the food supplies of enemy nations. In less than a century, this pest had established itself around the globe, but it did so without the aid of warring armies.
Poster from the former German Democratic Republic (East Germany). The text reads: “Ami-beetles are to destroy our harvest. With that they are also endangering the basis of your life. To destroy the potato beetles is a battle against the imperialists. The fight against the disastrous pest from the USA is a battle for peace!” Image courtesy of Andrei Alyokhin, potatobeetle.org.
Crossing into Canada In 1870, the beetle crossed the Detroit River into Canada. In his book, Riley described the river as “literally swarming with beetles, and they were crossing Lake Erie on ships, chips, staves, boards, or any other floating object which presented itself.” By 1883, the beetle had reached Canada’s potato-producing hub, Prince Edward Island.
The beetle quickly spread further eastward, often hitchhiking along the newly-built railroads and moving across the U.S. about 130 kilometers per year, on average.
FALL 2014 27 The rather photogenic adult beetles have been featured in some rather unusual places, including on postage stamps and in earrings. In the 1870s, the adult beetle had such a high profile in society that for a few years black- and yellow-striped evening gowns were fashionable. A joke at the time had potato beetles studying mailing lists of seed companies to find out who had ordered seed potatoes!
Mechanical to Chemical Control Before the use of pesticides, farmers had to pick the bugs off the potato
Photo courtesy Potato Museum. of P.E.I. leaves by hand. By the late 1800s, some The bug picker, invented by Prince Edward Island’s Allan Hunter in the late 1890s, worked by mechanical devices appeared on the whacking beetles off potato plants and into trays of kerosene. market. The simplest of these were
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28 SPUDSMART.COM St op by t he S Ma PGA nito M ba disp Pot lay ato at Pro the duc Po tio tat n D o G ays row , an er d s o at f Po Alb tat er o E ta xp co o nf in ere Flo nc rid e, a.
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Box 545 Portage la Prairie, MB R1N3B9 Phone: 204-239-6932 [email protected] leaves and into trays of kerosene below, various non-chemical approaches The potato beetle killing the bugs. including cultural practices and the has become However, it was clear that neither use of natural enemies. The latest picking by hand nor mechanical bug pickers developments in Colorado potato notorious for its were capable of truly controlling this beetle control also include new potato development of voracious pest. A number of insecticides varieties bred to be resistant to this aimed at killing Colorado potato beetles tough pest. resistance to virtually were evaluated in the 1860s and 1870s. The Bolivian wild species S. all insecticides that Among them was a copper-arsenic berthaultii is resistant to the Colorado compound called Paris Green, which when potato beetle and many other insects. have been used diluted with flour and dusted on potato This resistance is based on glandular plants was found to be effective. This was hairs on the lower side of the leaves. against it. in essence the first large-scale use of an When an insect rubs against a hair the insecticide on an agricultural crop. gland ruptures and exudes a glue-like substance that traps the bug, impeding its potato beetle pincers, soon followed by Breeding for Genetic Resistance movement so it eventually starves. several other more sophisticated devices. Other insecticides such as lead arsenate Scientists at Cornell University During the 1890s, Prince Edward and DDT were used in subsequent decades. in Ithica, N.Y., have incorporated this Island inventor Allan Hunter devised a However, the potato beetle has become trait into two commercial cultivars, machine, which he produced and sold notorious for its development of resistance Prince Hairy and King Harry. In 2007, to local potato farmers. Hunter’s bug to virtually all insecticides that have been the Mailorder Gardening Association picker resembled a wheelbarrow and was used against it. honoured King Harry with a Green pushed between rows of potato plants. More recently, scientists have Thumb Award as one of that year’s best As the machine moved, the paddles on been advocating an integrated pest new plant varieties. Hielke De Jong both sides whacked beetles off the potato management approach, which includes
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30 SPUDSMART.COM
Successful growers share their thoughts ROUNDTABLE on best management practices in potato production. Minimizing Bruise Damage
Keller adds they also dig deep enough to provide sufficient dirt to help cushion the tubers during handling. “You want to make sure the digger is carrying enough dirt with the potatoes so you’re not handling them by themselves. We make sure operators carry enough dirt all the way to the top of the machine.”
RANDY VISSER MARK KELLER MIKE WIND Minimizing Drops Randy Visser has been Mark Keller grows 5,000 Mike Wind has been Reducing drops during the potato handling process is growing potatoes for acres of processing growing chipper potatoes another key consideration. Visser says it’s critical to keep close to 20 years at his potatoes for the french at his Alberta farm since a close eye on those drops every step of the way — from family farm in Prince fry industry at his farm 1990. harvest to storage bin. Edward Island. just east of Brandon, Man. “From the windrowers, to the harvester, to the trucks, to the receiving line, every drop is important to make sure that it’s going to minimize bruising,” explains Visser. This can be done by such means as ensuring drops “deflect the MINIMIZING BRUISE DAMAGE is a primary concern for product a little bit so it’s not a hard drop” or by removing potato growers, not only when harvesting the crop but the bottoms from conveyor equipment “so the belt during handling and storage. We put the question of best actually has got a bit of a spring [and] some give to it, so management practices for preventing or reducing tuber then there’s not a hard, dead blow,” he says. bruising to three growers from across the country: Randy Visser adds they’ve found that tuber bruising is Visser of Gerrit Visser and Sons in Orwell Cove, P.E.I., Mark also related to how many drops and turns, or transition Keller of Elk Haven Farms in Brandon, Man., and Mike Wind of points, there are in the production line. That’s’ because Windiana Farms in Taber, Alta. Here’s their take on the best of the damage that can occur in transition points is often the BMPs for minimizing tuber bruising. cumulative. “Basically, the fewer [drops and turns] the better,” says Visser. “There are ways to manage this, like The Right Harvest Conditions using one long conveyor belt to cover a distance rather than Potato bruising starts as soon as the tubers are plucked from two shorter ones.” the ground, so it’s important to monitor weather conditions Keller’s rule of thumb is you “never drop potatoes more closely at the start of harvest. Visser, Keller and Wind all than six inches at any time.” He adds it’s also important to agree you don’t want to start digging up potatoes when it’s ensure your belts are running slowly and are full at all times to too hot or too cold outside. minimize the jostling that can contribute to tuber bruising. Wind says the hottest they’ll harvest is at about 20 C, and that 10 C is about the lowest temperature at which they’ll Perils of Piling On consider digging. For Visser, that figure is a little lower: “You Piling potatoes too high can be a recipe for pressure probably want to avoid going below 7 C at harvest time.” bruising, a primary source of tuber damage in storage. Keller also stresses the importance of making sure the “How high that you make those piles will make a soil is at the right moisture level for digging. “We water our difference.” says Visser. “It’s variety specific but the fields before we dig them up,” he says. “We want to make more you put on top, the more weight on those bottom sure the ground is a little bit wet so the potatoes can carry potatoes. If you keep it down to 13 feet or less then you’re dirt with them.” much better off, I think.”
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32 SPUDSMART.COM Photo courtesy of Mike Wind. Harvest time at Mike Wind’s farm in Taber, Alta. Wind stresses the importance of harvesting potatoes in the right weather conditions.
High Humidity Differences in Varieties “Humidity’s important in the storage for sure. If you have it One of the challenges in bruise management is that some too dry in the pile then potatoes will respire and dehydrate. varieties bruise more easily than others. As an example, So you want to keep that up as high as you can,” says Visser. Wind refers to chipper round white potatoes, which he says “The only thing you have to be a little careful of is if you are “definitely more susceptible” to pressure bruising than a get free moisture in your piles — that will open you up to variety like Russet Burbank. other issues like possible rots,” he says. “So you don’t want it “First of the all, with round whites you want to make sure soaking wet in there, either. you’re putting in a product that’s very clean. You don’t want “We always say that 95 per cent humidity or plus is fine, to put any dirt in the pile because that’ll block your air off,” as long as you don’t have free moisture in the pile,” says he says. “I guess with the whole handling procedure, you just Visser. “The higher the better as far as we’re concerned.” have to be more careful.” Visser says his operation is adding new computerized Visser says a sensible strategy is to manage bruise sensors to their storage ventilation systems. This enables damage by focusing on your most susceptible variety. relative humidity to be monitored more quickly and in real time. “Some of these yellow varieties, Yukon Gold for example, “We can literally go on the Internet anywhere — my can be quite a bit more sensitive to handling. Over the years phone, my computer in my office or at home or whatever — we’ve grown a lot of Yukon Gold, so we’ve learned a lot about and monitor those systems,” he says. handling from that variety,” he says. Wind says adequate humidity in the storage bin cuts “What you want to do is take your most sensitive variety down on chances of tuber rots setting in, since this helps cool and use that as your benchmark. If you can take that one in the potato piles down and will also help bruised potatoes without marking it up or bruising it… it certainly doesn’t hurt heal. “We try to keep it around 95 per cent humidity in there the more resilient variety to be handled gently too,” Visser as potatoes come in for the healing process,” he says. explains. “You take some of your worst case scenarios, or Keller agrees on the 95 per cent benchmark, and says your most susceptible varieties, and build your production it’s important to have the proper humidity settings from the around that — that’s kind of what we do.” start. “Whenever possible, you should have the right humidity By Mark Halsall right off the bat, especially for Umatilla and Russets, so that you’re are minimize bruising the first few weeks going in while they get suberized.”
FALL 2014 33 INTHEFIELD Grower Chad Berry used a five-row bed planter to seed part of his potato acreage at his Manitoba farm last year.
Bed Planting Study
Results Show Benefits Photo courtesy of Chad Berry. Smaller tubers, yield increases, reduction in irrigation water touted as main advantages of alternative to ridged row planting.
FIVE-ROW BED PLANTING of potatoes comes with some inherent found that bed configuration resulted in more tubers per plot, and advantages over traditional ridged row planting. That’s the finding those tubers tended to be smaller. of a recent Manitoba study carried out to determine how different “Large tubers represent a real disincentive for processors,” bed planting techniques can effect potato plant populations in Gibson says. “The biggest benefit we saw with bed planting is tuber terms of yield, tuber profile and quality for french fry processing. size and getting more tubers of the size the processors want to see Bed planting of potatoes has been gaining attention in Canada for french fry processing.” after growers in Idaho and elsewhere in the Pacific Northwest Chad Berry can attest to bed planting’s positive effect on tuber started experimenting with the technique as an alternative to the size. Berry, owner of Over and Under the Hill Farms near Glenboro, conventional ridged row system. In a bed design, multiple rows of Man., uses a bed planting system on almost one-fifth of his 1,600 potatoes are planted into an elevated, flat area. This configuration acres of potatoes. It’s his fourth year using the technique, which reduces the number of furrows in a field, thus increasing the surface allows him to grow five rows of potatoes in the same space where area for optimal distribution of potato roots. there had been four. In 2011, Gaia Consulting was commissioned to conduct the bed planting research at Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Fewest Benefits with Russet Burbanks Centre’s research site in Carberry, Man. Funding for the project “Our quality bonuses are paid based on size profile, and it definitely came from the Canadian government’s Growing Forward 1 helps us out there,” he says. “I find it very variety-specific, though,” program as well as from Keystone Potato Producers Association, he adds. According to Berry, he’s seen his most significant tuber Simplot Canada and McCain Foods Canada. size improvements with Innovator, Ranger, and Umatilla. He’s Spud Smart first reported on the study, which compared noticed the least amount of benefit with Russet Burbank. potatoes grown in a conventional ridged row configuration to a One drawback researchers saw with bed planting — a slightly five-row bed configuration, in our spring 2013 issue, and the results different tuber profile in the outer row — has been taken care of are now in. somewhat by using slightly tighter spacing in the outer row. “Tuber profile is the biggest advantage of bed planting,” says The study also found that bed planting produced slightly study co-author Darin Gibson of Gaia Consulting. The researchers higher yields than traditional ridged row techniques — Gibson 34 SPUDSMART.COM says about 25 hundredweight of additional potato yield was attained, on average. The study used a plot size of 24 by 60 feet. Alberta seed potatoes Eight rows of ridged rows were planted compared to 10 rows using the bed planting technique. are the best you can buy. Berry has also noticed an average of five to 10 per cent higher yield using bed planting. “I don’t think most growers will find a very dramatic increase in yield, but it’s there,” Gibson says. Another modest benefit to bed planting that the study authors found was in regard to irrigation water use. Because the bed planting technique allows the soil to retain more moisture, less irrigation water was required. Soil moisture was maintained at a minimum of 75 per cent available soil water, according to the study results. Gibson adds that bed planting will likely become more popular with time, but he doesn’t expect it to become the dominant form of potato planting for the industry. “Russett Burbank is still the most widely grown variety, and we haven’t We have earned the con dence and trust seen the benefit in that variety like we’ve seen in some of the others,” he says. of potato growers for over 30 years. Bed planting also requires expensive equipment. Conventional planters can’t be used, meaning specialized See what everyone’s talking about. equipment has to be brought in for seeding and possibly for other purposes. “It’s a lot of expense — you need machinery Potato Growers of Alberta you didn’t have before,” Berry adds. He uses both conventional www.albertapotatoes.ca ridged row and bed planting on his farm. “You have to run Bed Planting Study two different units, and that means more people and more equipment.” Marc Zienkiewicz and Mark Halsall
Results Show Benefits Photo courtesy of Chad Berry. Because.
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FALL 2014 35 eye
NEW BRUNSWICK preferences. The new strategic plan will be presented for grower approval at the board’s annual general meeting in November. By Louis Ouellette, As we enter another winter marketing and planning season, Market Information Co-ordinator communication with growers to share market information, with Potatoes New Brunswick government to develop programs and policies that help the industry, and with the general public to share factual production It was a very pleasant summer here in New Brunswick. A late and economic information will continue to be key parts of the P.E.I. spring got the crop into the ground about two weeks behind nor- Potato Board’s strategy going forward. mal planting time, but almost ideal temperatures helped this year’s crop make up some much-needed time over the growing season. As of mid-September, the northern part of New Brunswick’s po- QUEBEC tato belt had received adequate rain and many growers were ex- pecting above-average yields with excellent quality. Producers in By Clement Lalancette, the southern areas of the potato belt saw little rain during August General Manager and were counting on some much-needed rain before harvest to Federation des Producteurs help the potatoes during the important bulking stage. That being de Pommes de Terre du Quebec said, quality is expected to be very good for the 2014 crop. Harvesting activities started in early August for chipping In general, we had good weather conditions this past summer potatoes, with the remainder of the harvest scheduled to begin except for some drought conditions in a few areas. The eastern around mid-September. part of the province was particularly affected with low precipitation in July and August. An estimated 44,250 acres of potato were planted this year in PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Quebec, about the same acreage as 2013. Generally, we anticipate average yields that are similar to last year. However, yields may be By Gary Linkletter, Chairman lower in those areas that experienced a drought period or where Prince Edward Island Potato Board potatoes had not been irrigated. Also, for many varieties we could see fewer tubers per plant this year than normal. While the winter months are traditionally planning season for the As of mid-September, quality seems good with very few internal potato industry, the spring and summer of 2014 saw Island growers defects like brown heart and hollow heart. Common scab has been participating in the development of an updated strategic plan for observed regularly with different intensity levels. the Prince Edward Island Potato Board. The input sessions included face-to-face grower meetings as well as the solicitation of feedback using electronic communication ONTARIO methods. Although the focus was on getting grower feedback and input, dealers also had an opportunity to contribute their thoughts By Peter VanderZaag as information was gathered to set the direction going forward. Owner, Sunrise Potato There will be no dramatic change in the direction of the potato board, but outside influences and production technology do change The summer of 2014 was a cool and wet for most Ontario potato- over the years and this influences the direction of board activities growing areas, providing ideal growing conditions for potatoes. The somewhat. Under consideration is an increased focus on finding crop grew and matured naturally and yields are excellent. Late blight ways we can make changes in production, transportation and was a concern in the latter part of the growing season but an exten- marketing to help the P.E.I. potato industry be more competitive and sive spray program provided near perfect control. Market demand increase margins for growers, responding to new disease and insect for fresh potatoes remains good. As of mid-September, harvesting pest pressures, and adapting to new market demands and consumer was progressing well, with favourable harvesting conditions.
36 SPUDSMART.COM The 2014 Ontario Potato Field was held Aug. 21st in Alliston, MANITOBA Ont. This event was hosted by HJV Equipment and was organized by Eugenia Banks, potato specialist with the Ontario Ministry of By Dan Sawatsky, General Manager Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. The approximately 300 attendees Keystone Potato Producers Association — growers, crop consultants and potato industry people — had the opportunity to get acquainted with innovative potato equipment Comments vary when growers are asked about crop expectations such as Spudnik’s AirSep Harvester as well as with a large number this year. Although the crop was planted on average two weeks of new potato varieties grown in nearby plots in commercial fields. behind normal planting dates, ideal temperatures allowed the crop Networking among the field day attendees created a vibrant and to advance quickly. friendly atmosphere that, along with favourable weather, contributed Test digs are showing a high tuber set with uniform growth. Little to the success of this annual event. We are most fortunate to have rainfall in July and through the first half of August kept the irrigation such passionate potato specialist in Eugenia Banks, who makes equipment busy. The processing acreage was fully irrigated while these events so worthwhile. the fresh side of the industry lagged behind.
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The summer dry spell ended in mid-August with some areas The yield for early-crop potatoes fell within the normal range this receiving up to seven inches of rain during the third week of that year. There are similar expectations for the main storage crop that month, which has resulted in some minor losses. Rain continued mostly had yet to be harvested by mid-September. There is no talk into early September. of a bumper crop; however, growers are optimistic as tuber size There was a setback for some producers who rely on water and quality of early crop potatoes was good and this is expected pumped from the Assiniboine River in July when a major rainfall to be the case for the main storage crop. The quality of table stock event upstream in Saskatchewan caused the river to overflow its potatoes is also shaping up to be excellent. banks, inundating irrigation pumps and equipment. Growers had to The potato pricing picture in British Columbia remains unclear scramble and improvise to supply water at a time when crop water due to the potato supply and market situation in the U.S. Pacific demand was high. Northwest. It’s a similar situation for most other producers in West- Transition into new crop for Simplot and McCain Foods occurred ern Canada and the United States, who face the fundamental and on Aug. 18 and 24. Early direct delivery product was as varied as as yet the unanswerable question as to what the marketing season producer’s expectations, with some fields yielding well with sur- will bring in the way of returns. Everyone’s focus at present is on prising tuber size and others where the yield was down with a harvesting and maintaining quality in storage. smaller tuber profile. Continual rain has contributed to a challenging start for new sea- son deliveries. The main Russet Burbank storage crop will require more time and drier weather to realize its potential. ALBERTA The industry in Manitoba continues to invest in research target- ed at increasing yield and quality. The potato research field day By Terence Hochstein, held Aug. 14 at the Canada-Manitoba Crop Diversification Centre in Executive Director Carberry, Man., highlighted initiatives involving fertility and water Potato Growers of Alberta usage. Growing interest in variable rate irrigation has also prompt- ed research in that area. In many areas, Alberta’s start to September looked like a mid- Planning has begun for the 2015 Manitoba Potato Production December blizzard. Some parts of the province received up to 12 Days Conference to be held Jan. 26 to 28, in Brandon, Man. More inches of the white stuff and experienced temperatures as cold as information is available at mbpotatodays.ca. -9 C. Fortunately, this was short-lived and most of the potato acres remained unscathed. Our growing season has been all over the map this year: a late BRITISH COLUMBIA start, some catch-up, and then virtually no moisture for those areas BC VegetaBle with no irrigation. Late August brought a lot of rain to the south and Marketing By Tom Demma, General Manager CoMMission it just kept coming. BC Vegetable Marketing Commission As of mid-September, harvest was looking to be long and drawn out, with a whole lot of waiting in between some very frustrat- All eyes are on British Columbia’s main potato crop and the various ing harvest days. Overall, we are looking at an average yield for potato varieties which, when harvested, will enter into storage for the processing areas, albeit that could change depending on how selling later in the marketing year. many acres that may have to be abandoned due to the excessive The weather throughout the growing season has been remark- moisture conditions. ably conducive to crop development. Daytime temperatures were Our seed volume looks to be down this year as well due to the steadily warm, but with few overly hot days. By mid-September, early dry conditions. Only time will tell as to what our numbers will any hint of fall weather had yet to appear, so those farmers begin- look like come the finish of harvest. ning the storage potato harvest were working in ideal conditions. Fall brings the start of meeting and conference season. Alberta The memory of 2010’s excess moisture event is still prevalent in growers will once again host the 48th annual Alberta Potato Con- everyone’s mind and is something no one wishes to see again. ference and Trade Show in Red Deer, Alta., from Nov. 18 to 20.. Plan
38 SPUDSMART.COM on joining us for three days of information and networking with that SSPGA members had about the Canadian government’s potato industry representatives from across the country. For more Seed Potato Tuber Quality Management Program and potato cyst information, visit albertapotatoes.ca or contact the PGA office at nematode testing. While clarity was provided, concern remains that 403-223-2262. the testing requirements will burden Saskatchewan producers given the large acreages that they typically manage. Members also discussed their concern about the removal of SASKATCHEWAN Thimet from the market without available viable alternatives for controlling wireworm. Jeremy German, a senior agrologist with By Desseri Ackerman, G-Mac’s AgTeam Inc., updated growers on their new agronomic Manager, Saskatchewan Seed services available to potato producers. Potato Growers Association As of mid-September, producers were reporting excellent tuber quality but yields were down from last year’s bumper crop. It appears The Saskatchewan Seed Potato Growers Association held its that there will be an average yield this year. semi-annual general meeting Aug. 19. Regional Canadian Food The SSPGA will hold its annual general meeting and conference in Inspection Agency representatives addressed several concerns Saskatoon on Nov. 27. Guest speakers and a trade show are planned.
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FALL 2014 39 32912 E – 8.25"w x 10.875"h (with bleed 8.5 x 11.875)– Ad Insert Canadian agriculture Big business. Big opportunity. Big responsibility.
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Most of us in agriculture see the great opportunities in front and 450 agvocates, all committed to improving perceptions, of us. We know ag is a vital and forward-thinking industry, ripe dispelling myths and creating positive dialogue about Canada is with opportunity and that we care about the environment, agriculture. We’ve made great progress in our first two years, animal welfare and producing safe, healthy food for a growing but we need to keep growing – because changing perceptions world. But the general public often hears a dierent story. is an ongoing job, made easier when all of us do our part. Why? Because, for the most part, our industry isn’t the one Together we can share our optimism in eective and telling it. engaging ways.
To reach its full potential, ag needs everyone in the industry to Visit AgMoreThanEver.ca today and find out how you can speak up so the real story of Canadian ag can be heard. You get involved. in the world don’t need a podium or soap box, just a desire to share your ag pride with the world, and Ag More Than Ever can help.
Ag More Than Ever is an industry-driven cause that provides resources and a forum for agvocates to tell the real, positive story of Canadian ag. We’re made up of over 300 partners
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Introducing the new and improved Here are a few ways to get involved and make the most of the site: 1. Join our agvocate list Adding your name to our agvocate list is a great way to show your support for the industry. Join a community of like-minded people and receive an email from us every AgMore anEver.ca month, with agvocate tips to help you speak up for ag. 2. Use our resources Our online hub for agvocates just got better – we’ve overhauled the site to make it easier We’ve made our resources easier to navigate and added for you to tell the real, positive story of Canadian ag. new content to help you show everyone your passion for ag. The section is filled with easy-to-share facts, photos, infographics and more.
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Introducing the new and improved Here are a few ways to get involved and make the most of the site: 1. Join our agvocate list 3. Share your story Adding your name to our agvocate list is a great way Share examples of your agvocacy in action. How have you to show your support for the industry. Join a community dispelled myths, started conversations or shared your ag of like-minded people and receive an email from us every pride with the world? Your story can serve as a great AgMore anEver.ca month, with agvocate tips to help you speak up for ag. example for other agvocates. 2. Use our resources We’ve made our resources easier to navigate and added new content to help you show everyone your passion for ag. The section is filled with easy-to-share facts, photos, infographics and more.
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32912 E AMTE Germination1_season2.indd 4 2014-07-28 11:41 AM TUBERTALK
Variable Rate Irrigation Why this alternative to conventional irrigation techniques is getting a lot of attention in potato production circles.
IN RECENT YEARS, the concept indicating the desired application depths for defined areas known as variable rate irrigation beneath the irrigation system. The prescription is then uploaded or VRI has become a catchphrase to the centre pivot’s electronic control panel, which references among irrigation specialists and the prescription when sending out control signals and cycles the growers alike. Some would even signal to associated control valves to achieve the desired water describe it as precision agriculture application amount for that particular area of the field. applied to irrigation. In essence, VRI is the process of Benefits of VRI applying differing irrigation amounts to Proponents of VRI provide several reasons for it being beneficial. By match crop water demands at a small Among the benefits listed in the AAFC and AARD report: scale within a particular field. Most • Stresses due to drought and excess moisture are avoided, Lukie irrigation equipment manufacturers in reducing the incidence of crop disease and stress-related Canada nowadays offer systems that are crop quality problems or can be retrofitted with the necessary • Reduced water use (up to 15 per cent, according to some Pieterse technology needed to enable these estimates) systems to be used for VRI. • Reduced energy use, as a result of reduced pumping at the Lukie Pieterse Variable Rate Irrigation: The Next field level as well as from the water source to the field is a consultant Big Thing in Irrigated Agriculture?, a • Potential for the precision application of nutrients through and writer paper published last year by irrigation fertigation with decades of experience specialists with Agriculture and Agri- VRI enthusiasts often point out that if areas of a particular field in the potato Food Canada and Alberta Agriculture and are either under-irrigated or over-irrigated, yield potential will not sector, from Rural Development, notes the following be maximized no matter at what rate other inputs are applied. growing his own components of VRI technology: VRI technology and its application have been put to the test drip-irrigated • Sprinkler control valves — water by Canadian potato researchers and growers alike over the past potatoes to writing valves that open and close in few years. During the Manitoba Potato Production Days event international response to a control signal, in Brandon, Man., earlier this year, Jeff Bronsch of Sunrise Ag, potato news. controlling individual sprinklers or a farm production management company in Taber, Alta., talked Tuber Talk is an defined banks of sprinklers about a VRI project he conducted along with a couple of Alberta insider’s take • A pivot positioning system — usually potato growers in 2012. on the issues impacting the a global positioning system, this In an interview with Spud Smart magazine during the confer- industry. locates the exact position of the ence, Bronsch said that he’s been involved in trials with VRI technol- pivot system within the field ogy at the grower level for the past three years. What he and his re- • An electronic control panel — this search team are investigating is how VRI techniques can be used to processes the information uploaded by help develop field prescriptions that address soil variability. the operator and sends control signals According to Bronsch, the outstanding value of VRI for to the sprinkler valves in accordance potato production is “minimizing that production variability so with the pivot location in the field and that the grower at harvest would have a uniform crop across the the desired water application depth field and minimize waste.” along the system Bronsch further pointed out that from a production VRI system users are provided with standpoint, “there is a maturity aspect that comes into play software that creates a “prescription” where part of the crop would not be mature while other parts of
44 SPUDSMART.COM the same crop would still be immature. Variability in maturity of a crop always creates problems in storage for one, while there is also the matter of differences in size profile because of variability in maturity across certain sectors of the field.” According to Bronsch, “Ultimately the goal is to minimize that variability within a field to maximize the economics so there is more product in the bag, thus minimizing waste and maximizing the input cost.” Although he believes that VRI can play a role in yield improvement, Bronsch sees the most important benefit as improved product quality. One example of enhanced quality, he said, “is being able to develop a unified crop profile within the parameters of processor specifications.” Bronsch stressed an improvement in quality leads to higher economic yield, since there is less grading required after harvest and not as much product is thrown away because there’s a more uniform crop. Bronsch acknowledges that VRI currently costs more than traditional irrigation techniques but stresses, “there is a payback or there wouldn’t be much interest.” These paybacks include increased economic yields resulting from higher crop yields and quality and less waste, he says, adding that VRI can help growers harvest every planted acre and capture the investment of every acre, both in terms of fixed costs and crop inputs. Bronsch maintains VRI can also help farmers maximize the benefits of a fixed water location. “In some areas like Manitoba, water is captured in the spring at high flows and diverted into Canadian researchers studying variable rate irrigation storage ponds. Maximizing the efficiency and delivery of this technology and its applications in potato production include Manitoba agronomist Alison Nelson. fixed allocation to the crop is valuable,” he says.
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FALL 2014 45 Manitoba Study comparative study will be completed within two years of VRI During a field trial tour at the Canada-Manitoba Crop installation. Nelson said the project was spurred on by requests Diversification Centre near Carberry, Man., in August, from Manitoba producers for the CMCDC to help come up with agronomist Alison Nelson spoke to Spud Smart about a ways to help reduce soil moisture variation within potato fields variable rate irrigation research project that the CMCDC in the province. started this year. Research in Ontario is also underscoring the benefits of VRI in potato production. A study by the Water Resource “VRI CAN HELP GROWERS HARVEST Adaptation and Management Initiative entitled Showcasing EVERY PLANTED ACRE AND CAPTURE variable rate irrigation technologies in the Ontario potato THE INVESTMENT OF EVERY ACRE, BOTH industry has shown this irrigation technique requires substantially less irrigated water (between nine and 26 per IN TERMS OF FIXED COSTS AND CROP cent) and there are associated energy savings as well. There INPUTS.” was also a significant reduction in field runoff and drainage, reducing the risk of nitrate leaching with VRI. JEFF BRONSCH A big obstacle to the widespread adoption of VRI is of Nelson indicated that the project is aimed at comparing course the cost. However, improvements in the technology the benefits of a VRI system with those of a conventional are narrowing the gap between it and traditional irrigation irrigation system on potato crops, to see how the two systems methods. Only time, ongoing research trials, and the nature differ in terms of quality and yield at the end of the season. of grower experiences at the field level with this technology The work is currently in a fact-finding phase and the will establish in the long run whether variable rate irrigation in plan is get a VRI system up and running soon. It’s hoped the potato production is here to stay.
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808080 While there’s not much change on the fresh side, total potato crop production in Canada is down MARKETNEWS slightly from a year ago. MANITOBA “The crop was late planting but thankfully we had good growing CANADA’S POTATO crop production for 2014 is expected conditions for some part of the summer,” he says. “We’re looking to be slightly lower than last year, according to the United Potato at pretty favourable yields, I think.” POTATO Growers of Canada. THE POTATO supply-and-demand picture was also shaping up Recent UPGC figures show a drop of just over three per cent to be “pretty decent” by summer’s end, according to MacIsaac. JANUARY 26-28, 2015 nationally, with the biggest decline in Manitoba where crop PRODUCTION “We’re pretty well where we should be in terms of production,” production is expected to be down almost 15 per cent from he says. a year ago. Quebec, with a close to nine per cent decline, and Ontario, with a nearly six per cent drop, are also down That’s good news in terms of potato prices, although significantly from 2013. However, there are projected increases DAYS MacIsaac did caution that a continuation of a market of about three per cent in both of the two main crop producers oversupply trend in Idaho could result in some pricing in Atlantic Canada, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick. pressure generally in North America. Other figures from UPGC show virtually no change in crop FALL POTATO production is up in the United States compared production on the fresh potato side from 2013 to 2014. Of the to a year ago, according to Bruce Huffaker’s North American main potato producing provinces, Prince Edward Island, at 10.5 Potato Market News. Huffaker expects U.S. growers to produce per cent witnessed the largest increase, while Quebec had the nearly 415 million hundredweight of fall potatoes in 2014, a 4.1 per biggest decline with a nearly 14 per cent drop. cent increase from 2013. The declines in total potato crop production can be attributed Presentations to cuts in processing acres in many areas coupled with Canadian Crop Production (000 cwt) unfavourable weather in most parts of the country at the beginning of the season. August 2014 Yield % Change Province 2011 2012 2013 Estimate 2013-2014 Despite the cold, wet weather that delayed planting for many Nfld. and Labrador 90 88 88 83 -5.7 growers, this year’s crop managed to catch up and was actually Prince Edward Island 24,510 24,284 25,009 25,793 3.1 Exhibitors doing pretty well heading into harvest, according to Kevin
3.1 per cent decline in production decline crop cent per 3.1 MacIsaac, UPGC general manager. New Brunswick 11,883 14,438 13,647 14,037 2.9
Nova Scotia 460 418 450 356 -20.0
Quebec 11,250 11,001 11,830 10,811 -8.6
Ontario 6,338 7,505 8,438 7,952 -5.8 Manitoba 17,500 20,763 21,545 18,381 -14.7 Speakers Saskatchewan 1,960 1,625 1,788 1,763 -1.4
Alberta 16,433 18,695 18,234 18,667 2.4
British Columbia 1,898 1,925 1,708 1,752 2.6 Total Canada 92,372 100,741 102,736 99,595 -3.1 Equipment
Canadian Fresh Potato Production (000 cwt) September 2014 Yield % Change Province September 2013 Estimate 2013-2014
Nfld. and Labrador 88 83 -5.7
Prince Edward Island 7,000 7,738 10.5
New Brunswick 2,296 2,344 2.1 Potato & Irrigation Specialists Nova Scotia 15 12 -20.0 Owner/Sales - Fokko Buurma Quebec 6,509 5,621 -13.7
Email: [email protected] Ontario 4,390 4,223 -3.8 Website: www.midplainsimplements.com Manitoba 2,480 2,680 8.1 Serving you at two locations: Saskatchewan 1,100 1,080 -1.8 Box 610, Carberry, Manitoba, R0K 0H0 Alberta 916 963 5.1 Ph: 204-834-2515 Fax: 204-834-2580, cell: 204-729-6812 British Columbia 1,093 1,102 0.8
Total Canada 25,887 25,846 -0.2 Box 610, Portage La Prairie, MB R1N 3B9 Source: United Potato Growers of Canada Ph: 204-239-0584 Fax: 204-239-0564 Market information courtesy of the UPGC, UPGA and iindustry Stop by our booth at Manitoba Potato Production Days! partners, and Bruce Huffaker, market analyst and publisher of For more info phone 204-239-6932 North American Potato Market News. or visit us online at www.mbpotatodays.ca 48 SPUDSMART.COM
-17- MANITOBA POTATO PRODUCTION JANUARY 26-28, 2015 DAYS
Presentations
Exhibitors
Speakers
Equipment
For more info phone 204-239-6932 or visit us online at www.mbpotatodays.ca WORLDNEWS World Review NEWS & INSIGHTS FROM AROUND THE GLOBE.
Also this year, the program offers specialty being studied as part of the project. Neiker- potatoes with splashes of red and yellow on Tecnalia has evaluated how these varieties the skin that have a yellow flesh. “These are behave with respect to drought and high referred to as gourmet potatoes and that and low temperatures through field trials and niche is receiving more emphasis lately,” under controlled conditions in greenhouses. Miller says. “These are generally boiled and In all these trials, identical potatoes were add unique colour to the plate when served.” sown in order to compare their production under different environmental conditions. Miller points out that the russet potato is Researchers analyzed output, chlorophyll and still the primary emphasis of the program, water content. adding a new russet will soon be released United States for commercial production. “It promises to Neiker-Tecnalia technicians gathered genetic DECLINING potato consumption be very successful,” he says. information on the varieties as each was by Americans has Texas A&M AgriLife subjected to adverse conditions of drought, Research breeders working on “designer” Source: Texas A&M Agrilife cold and heat. This enabled researchers to spuds that meet the time constraints and observe which genes are expressed when unique tastes of a younger generation. the plant is under a specific stress. Identifying “So what we are doing now is developing Spain these genes is believed to be an essential first unique varieties that have a tendency to AS POTATOES are highly susceptible step towards developing new varieties that appeal to the younger set with high income to climate change, researchers at Neiker- will adapt to future climate conditions. It also who are willing to try something different,” Tecnalia, an agricultural research and constitutes essential information to find out says Creighton Miller, an AgriLife Research development institute in Spain, are looking how the current varieties will behave when potato breeder. “This has contributed to an for potato genes that best adapt to faced with the effects of climate change. increase in consumption of these types over anticipated climate changes, characterized the russets, which are still the standard.” by reduced rainfall and increased extremes Source: Neiker-Tecnalia in hot and cold temperatures. Miller says the potato breeding program is trying to develop improved varieties adapted As part of the PAPACLIMA project Czech Republic specifically to environmental conditions in developed by an international consortium, THE CZECH Republic aims to return Texas. “However, some of our varieties the purpose of this research is to identify the to self-sufficiency in traditional fruit and are widely adapted across the U.S.,” he most resistant genes to create new potato vegetable production. The country’s minister adds. “Three of them collectively represent varieties that will adapt to future climate of agriculture recently announced that the the fifth largest number of acres certified conditions. The research also seeks to find Czech Republic will support national fruit, for seed production in the U.S., so we’ve out how the current potato varieties will vegetable and potato producers with an released some successful varieties, and we behave in an environment with increased assistance package worth a quarter of a are developing more all the time.” drought and more temperature extremes. billion Czech crowns (the equivalent of $1.3 million in Canadian currency). Other varieties catching more attention The consortium is comprised of Neiker- are red potatoes with yellow and white Tecnalia and research and development Beginning in 2015, Czech fruit and vegetable flesh and purple-skinned potatoes with centres and universities in Argentina, producers will receive 100 million crowns in yellow flesh. The tubers with yellow flesh Uruguay, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador and financial assistance, while potato producers contain compounds that are antioxidants, Costa Rica. will receive 50 million crowns. Producers and that appeals to the health-conscious will also benefit from a rural development consumer, Miller says. “So in addition to Commercial varieties, native potatoes program that supports greenhouse and having the unique appearance, they are from South America, old varieties from warehouse construction and technology healthier potatoes.” the Canary Islands and wild species are all purchases.
50 SPUDSMART.COM While self-sufficiency in major products phytosanitary measures strictly to India from animals increased in 2013, Czech fresh increase potato exports to Russia.” DUPONT India is working with McCain fruit and potato production had declined Foods to implement the Global Good Agri- considerably, according to the minister. According to Nikolaev, “Now is a good cultural Practices Farm Assurer Certification Almost 30 per cent of potatoes consumed time to increase Bangladesh’s export Program with its contract farmers. in the Czech Republic were imported in volumes to Russia as some countries 2013, along with nearly a quarter of total have imposed sanctions on Russia. The program is designed to help potato consumed fruit. More than 60 per cent of If the Bangladesh government allows farmers follow Good Agricultural Practices other vegetables consumed by Czechs construction of the cold store, Russian to ensure food, worker and environmental were also imported into the country. potato importers will help in tests on the safety while enhancing harvest quality and crop, reserved in the cold storage.” marketability. Source: Government of the Czech Republic In addition, Bangladesh has an “This is an innovative platform to empower opportunity to export garment items, jute McCain contract farmers,” says Abinash Bangladesh and jute goods, shrimps, leather, home Gupta, McCain Foods India agro-director. RUSSIA’S ambassador to Bangladesh textile and ceramics items, he says. “By encouraging farmers to follow good has proposed constructing a cold store practices in agronomy and integrated in Chittagong, Bangladesh, to export “Bilateral trade between Bangladesh and pest management, the program enables disease-free potatoes to Russia. the Russian Federation will cross the $1 sustainable production of potatoes — a billion mark at the end of 2014,” Nikolaev win-win for farmers, stakeholders, the “Potato exports from Bangladesh says. “Bilateral trade was $807 million at environment and the community.” to Russia are on the rise,” explains the end of the current year.” Alexander Nikolaev. “But Bangladesh Source: The Times of India needs to check sanitary and Source: The Daily Star
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FALL 2014 51 INDUSTRYNEWS
POTATO PEOPLE, PRODUCT AND BUSINESS NEWS YOU NEED TO KNOW.
People News the United States and Anne Fowlie of Canada as members of MCCAIN NAMES NEW CANADIAN PRESIDENT the WPC board of directors. The three eminent individuals McCain Foods Limited has named Shai Altman as its new are recognized worldwide for their contributions to the Canadian president effective Oct. 20. He brings to McCain development and growth of the global potato industry. WPC more than 15 years of leadership experience in both mature has also announced the appointment of Peter VanderZaag, and developing markets with expertise in the development and president of Ontario’s Sunrise Potato Storage Ltd., to the direction of growth strategies. Altman joins McCain from Wm. organization’s international advisory committee. VanderZaag Wrigley Jr. Company, where he held the position of Wrigley will track and report potato-related issues throughout East Asia Canada president since 2009. Altman replaces Darryl Rowe, the and China, and offer advice to the WPC regarding its programs former McCain Foods Canadian president who stepped down and initiatives. last December. POTATO SCIENCE CHAIR ESTABLISHED NEW EUROPATAT SECRETARY GENERAL Research capacity in Alberta’s potato industry will be The board of Europatat, the European Potato Trade Association, significantly enhanced due to a $1 million investment in the has announced the appointment of Raquel Izquierdo de Santiago University of Lethbridge by a consortium of association and as the new secretary general of the association. She succeeds industry partners. The U of L will receive the funds over five- Frédéric Rosseneu, who held the position at Europatat for the last year period from the Potato Growers of Alberta, McCain four years. According to Europatat, Izquierdo de Santiago has Foods, ConAgra Foods’ Lamb Weston, and Cavendish Farms extensive experience in European affairs. He has served as the to establish a chair in potato science. “Growers and processors Food Law, Nutrition and Health director at Freshfel (the European identified a need to expand research in this critical field,” says Fresh Produce Association) as well as the deputy secretary Terence Hochstein, PGA executive director. “There are only a general for the World Apple and Pear Association. handful of researchers dedicated to the discipline throughout Western Canada, and we expect this new chair will greatly WPC APPOINTS NEW STAFF enhance and complement the current capacity that exists.” David Thompson, president and CEO of World Potato Congress Inc., has appointed Ron Gall of New Zealand, Nora Olsen of Product News NEW INSECTICIDE APPROVED FOR VEGETABLE CROPS Maximum residue limits for flubendiamide, the active ingredient in Bayer CropScience’s Belt insecticide, have been established in Canada. With this new MRL in place, Canada joins the list PRAIRE DOME of major markets with established import tolerances for Belt, including the European Union and Japan. “The new Canadian 1/3 PAGE MRLs for Belt are very exciting for fruit and vegetable growers,” says Lee Hall, Bayer CropScience insecticide product manager. “With this registration, growers exporting to Canada are now equipped with an additional tool to protect their valuable crops from costly worm damage, increasing yield and profit potential.”
POST-HARVEST FUNGICIDE HELPS TUBERS IN STORAGE Syngenta Canada Inc. has introduced Stadium post-harvest fungicide, a quality preservation tool for potatoes during storage. When used as part of a full-season, integrated disease prevention program, Stadium helps prevent the
DID YOU KNOW THAT SODIUM WILL COMPETE WITH POTASSIUM FOR PLANT UPTAKE? 52 SPUDSMART.COM spread of two devastating storage diseases, silver scurf DEWULF PLANS TO ACQUIRE MIEDEMA and fusarium dry rot. “Crop loss during storage can be The Dewulf Group has reached a preliminary agreement to ac- severe,” says Eric Phillips, Syngenta Canada fungicides and quire Miedema, a developer and producer of modern technology insecticides product lead. “Stadium helps preserve tuber for storage, sorting, transport and planting of potatoes. With this quality after harvest by controlling the spread of economically acquisition, the company says the Dewulf range of potato and significant storage diseases.” vegetable machines will be strengthened, positioning the firm as a global leader in this segment of the agricultural machinery man- Business News ufacturing market. The acquisition is expected to be complete by MCCAIN PLANT CLOSURE IN P.E.I. the end of 2014. McCain Foods is closing its french fry facility in Borden- Carleton, P.E.I., at the end of October. A shift in the market for AGRICO ACQUIRES MAJORITY STAKE IN PARKLAND french fries and a stronger Canadian dollar are cited as reasons The Dutch potato co-operative Agrico has purchased more shares for the plant closure. “We were shocked and disappointed by in its joint investment of Parkland Seed Potatoes Ltd., granting it the news from McCain,” said P.E.I. Potato Board Chairman Gary a majority stake in the Edmonton-based seed potato company. Linkletter in reaction to the news. “As is the situation in several Agrico started to work together with Parkland Seed Potatoes parts of North America, contract volumes at McCain’s P.E.I. in 1997. In 2005 Agrico bought 25 per cent of Parkland shares plant were reduced over the past few years. We understand and increased its share holdings to 49 per cent in 2008. The that global french fry demand has increased significantly during Dutch co-operative says the company’s growth strategy and the 2014, and we had hoped that McCain would use the excess opportunities in North America have spurred Agrico to acquire processing capacity in Borden to supply some of that expanded a majority stake by increasing its Parkland share holdings by an demand. Instead, we’re now dealing with the loss of the plant.” additional 21 per cent, totaling 70 per cent.
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FALL 2014 53 TRADE ACCESS INDENTIFIED AS CRITICAL TO INDUSTRY A report published by the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute states that Canada’s agri-food sector is competing in an increasingly complex trade world where significant export success depends on the timely negotiation of preferential trade access and achieving new ways to reach consumers in foreign markets. The paper notes that trade agreements, while important, are only one part of a series of integrated steps that must be taken to achieve export success. Firms must also overcome often-restrictive non-tariff barriers, other regulatory requirements and stiffening supply chain standards, as well as fully comprehending diverse consumer market niches to achieve immediate and longer-term success.
Industry News REDUCED HEALTH RISKS IN OLDER WOMEN Postmenopausal women who eat foods higher in potassium are less likely to have strokes and die than women who eat less potassium-rich foods, according to new research in the American Heart Association’s journal Stroke. “Our findings give women another reason to eat their fruits and vegetables,” says the study’s senior author, Sylvia Wassertheil-Smoller, a distinguished professor emeritus at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine’s Department of Epidemiology and Population Health in New York. “Fruits and vegetables are good sources of potassium, and potassium not only lowers postmenopausal women’s risk of stroke, but also death. Our findings suggest that women need to eat more potassium-rich foods. Foods high in potassium include white and sweet potatoes, bananas and white beans.”
SCIENTISTS BREED BLUE AND PINK POTATOES Shoppers in Belarus might soon be tempted by new breeds of potato with blue and pink flesh. It’s part of a national effort by Belarusian scientists to develop new kinds of spuds with non- traditional colours. “There’ll be blue, pink and purple potatoes that will taste as good as the more common white-yellow ones,” says Ivan Kalyadka, who heads the Research Centre for Potato Cultivation and Horticulture at the Belarusian Academy of Sciences.
VINELAND RECEIVES $1.1 MILLION INVESTMENT The Vineland Research and Innovation Centre in Vineland, Ont., will receive more than $1.1 million to help producers tap into the growing market for world crops. The funding will go towards research aimed at increasing seasonal field production of oriental long eggplants and okra, evaluating the use of greenhouse technologies and developing sweet potato varieties adapted to Canadian conditions. With an evolving consumer base in Canada and the U.S., it is hoped the project will help boost domestic production of exotic vegetables, leading to new opportunities for the horticultural sector.
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A Growing Business in Alberta
A LOT HAS CHANGED on Mike Wind’s southern Alberta potato operation since he started Windiana Farms back in 1990. For starters, the farm located near Taber, Alta., is much bigger. Initially it was 320 acres in size, but now Windiana comprises 3,600 acres of farmland — of that, 900 acres are dedicated to potatoes. “I started with a half section and have grown it to what it is today,” says Wind. “We were fortunate enough to be able to buy a lot of land a few years ago, and we kept buying.” Wind says the expansion was fuelled in part by the challenge of finding good quality rental land for potato production, which is in shorter supply all the time. These days, the emphasis is not on expanding acreage but preparing the farm for the next generation. Wind, who turned 69 this past summer, says his two sons, 32-year-old Jeremy and 24-year-old Kevin, will take over running Windiana in the not-too- distant future. “That’s our main focus right now — staying where we are and transitioning as I step out a little bit more,” Wind says. “They’ll take Left to right: Cathy, Mike, Kevin and Jeremy Wind of Windiana Farms. over more of the business as time goes on.” Both Jeremy and Kevin are already heavily involved in the farm’s operation, and Wind’s wife Cathy also plays a pivotal role. “She does the books for the business so she’s on top of things all the time,” Wind says. In addition to family, there are five full-time workers at “Here in Western Canada, Windiana, with an extra 10 or so people hired during peak times. Potatoes are grown on a four-year rotation, with wheat, barley, we have the ability to grow a seed canola, timothy hay, alfalfa hay, and soybeans. The main potato crop is chippers which are produced for Frito-Lay; some russets are consistent quality crop year after also grown for Lamb Weston. year because of our temperatures Like most producers, Wind will tell you potato growing is not for the faint of heart. “The challenge is being able to take the highs and our irrigation. That is the and lows, being able to handle that economically,” he says. reward in our neck of the Wind is also optimistic about the future: “I see nothing but very positive things for the potato industry.” It’s not that he expects huge woods.” growth on the business side, but Wind believes success hinges on potato farmers’ ability to keep churning out an exceptional product. Mike Wind “Here in Western Canada, we have the ability to grow a consistent quality crop year after year because of our temperatures and our irrigation,” he says. “That is the reward in our neck of the woods.” Mark Halsall
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