Nominations for the 2025-2026 PAA Board of Directors are being accepted. Members are encouraged to nominate themselves or others, as at least two candidates are needed for each position. Open roles include Vice President, Secretary, and two Directors. Candidates must be PAA members, consent to the nomination, and submit a qualification statement, CV, and portrait by April 24, 2025. Abstract submissions for PAA 2025 are also open until April 10.
News By Region
The science behind the starch content of potatoes: A closer look at resistant starch and nutrition
Recent research reveals that potatoes are more than just a carbohydrate source; they contain resistant starch which offers health benefits. This type of starch supports metabolic health by improving blood sugar control and gut health. As Lukie Pieterse writes in this article, potatoes have a higher resistant starch content than staples like wheat, rice, and maize. Proper preparation, such as cooling, enhances these benefits, making potatoes a valuable part of a health-conscious diet.
Sustainable potato storage: Balancing efficiency, waste reduction, and environmental responsibility
Sustainable potato storage is transforming the industry, balancing efficiency, waste reduction, and environmental responsibility. In this in-depth article, Lukie Pieterse of Potato News Today explores innovations such as AI-driven monitoring, renewable energy integration, climate adaptation strategies, and chemical-free sprout inhibitors.
The farmer’s heart never leaves the land: Reflections on change, legacy, and the future of farming
Lukie Pieterse reflects on nearly three decades since leaving traditional potato farming, emphasizing the enduring connection to the land despite advancements in technology. He discusses the evolution of agriculture, where data and automation replace instinct and experience. While older farmers struggle to adapt, the essence of farming remains unchanged—a deep bond with the land that transcends technology. The article invites dialogue on these themes and seeks to preserve farmers’ stories.
Ensuring seed potato quality: Best practices for shipping, handling, and preparation
Dr. Kasia Duellman from the University of Idaho emphasized the criticality of managing seed potatoes from storage to planting for optimal yield and quality during a recent NAPSO Webinar. Key practices include regulating temperature and humidity, proper handling during shipping, and ensuring effective wound healing post-receipt. Understanding physiological age is vital for determining planting strategies and protecting crops from disease while maximizing performance. Proactive management is crucial for profitability.
Vultus’ satellite-based potato leaf nitrogen analysis: A game changer for yield prediction and precision fertilization
Vultus, a Swedish AgTech company, tackles the critical challenge of optimizing nitrogen use in potato farming through AI-driven satellite technology. Their service delivers real-time nitrogen analysis and yield predictions, eliminating labor-intensive field sampling. By using advanced machine-learning models trained on extensive field data, Vultus provides actionable insights, helping farmers enhance nitrogen efficiency and predict yields early in the season, ultimately promoting sustainable practices and increased profitability.
Registrations now open for Europatat Congress 2025: Shaping the future of Europe’s potato industry in Lille
Europatat and Fedepom have opened registrations for the Europatat Congress at Hôtel Barrière, Lille, from June 11-13, 2025. The theme is “Potato leaders of the future: deciding under uncertainty.” Key events include commission meetings, a General Assembly, and a keynote speech by former astronaut Patrick Baudry. The Congress will feature discussions on the French table potato market and facilitate networking through social events, including a Gala Dinner.
A new era in potato genetics: Diploid potatoes hold the key to a more diverse and drought-resistant future
A comprehensive study on diploid potatoes, led by Dr. Bourlaye Fofana at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), reveals potential breeding advantages due to their genetic diversity. Researchers analyzed 384 diploid clones and identified 127 with drought resistance and late maturity. This research aims to enhance potato resilience to climate change, developing new commercial varieties that could benefit Canadian producers.
Growing against the odds: How Northern Canadian scientists and farmers are transforming cold-climate agriculture
Agricultural development in northern Canada is advancing despite challenges like short growing seasons. Dr. Julia Wheeler’s multi-year research project tested season extension technologies, including low tunnels, improving green bean yields in Happy Valley-Goose Bay, St. John’s, and Whitehorse. The study also assessed various potato varieties to offer alternatives for growers. Future research will focus on reusable technologies and diverse vegetable varieties to support sustainable agriculture in the North.
AI and remote sensing are transforming potato farming: Optimizing nitrogen use and yield predictions
The global potato industry is undergoing a technological shift through precision agriculture, AI, and remote sensing, enhancing nitrogen management and yield forecasting. A landmark study by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers Bilal Javed and Dr. Athyna Cambouris showcases how drone and satellite data improve nitrogen assessments with over 85% accuracy. These innovations promote sustainability, efficiency, and profitability, offering scalable solutions for farmers and changing agricultural practices significantly.
Smart farming upgrade: New CultiWise drones revolutionize fungicide and fertilizer mapping for potato growers
CultiWise, an innovative software from Skymaps, provides potato growers with high-precision “prescription maps” generated quickly using drones, overcoming satellite image limitations. The system enhances efficiency with potential cost savings and yield increases of up to 20% and 10% respectively. By enabling targeted variable-rate applications, it supports sustainable farming practices across various crops. Accessible globally, CultiWise has over 1,000 subscribers leveraging its advanced agricultural solutions.
Wireworm threat intensifies in UK potato crops: Growers urged to assess risk
Wireworm damage is increasingly threatening potato crops across the UK, attributed to several factors such as favorable climate, green cover crops, and reduced soil cultivation. The only available treatment is Nemathorin, which requires precise application techniques for effectiveness. Monitoring methods like pheromone and bait traps can help assess wireworm presence. New research on tefluthrin shows promise for future pest control solutions as trials for registration commence.
From lab to field: How ongoing philanthropic collaboration elevates research in sustainable agriculture
Dalhousie University in Canada integrates sustainability in education, infrastructure, and research, partnering with McCain Foods and Potatoes New Brunswick to enhance sustainable agriculture. Dr. Ahmad Al-Mallahi, the McCain Research Chair, leads initiatives on precision farming technologies. Their collaboration has secured additional funding, aspiring to meet UN food security goals. Dr. Al-Mallahi cultivates future leaders for regenerative agriculture through student involvement, showcasing how philanthropy drives meaningful agricultural advancements and community impact.
Best practices for receiving, handling, and storing seed potatoes: Insights from NAPSO webinar with James Alford
The North American Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) offers essential guidance for optimizing seed potato storage through its recent webinar. James Alford, owner of Alford Custom Ag/Premier Seed LLC, highlighted best practices in receiving, handling, and storing seed potatoes. Key focus areas included careful inspections, managing bruising, maintaining humidity, ensuring proper airflow, and implementing disinfection protocols to combat diseases.