POTATOES IN PRACTICE SEES 10% INCREASE IN FOOTFALL AS LATEST FINDINGS AND SOLUTIONS ARE AIRED
POTATO research centre The James Hutton Institute (JHI) , in collaboration with Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC) and Agrii , hosted the UK’s largest field-based potato industry event, Potatoes in Practice , at Balruddery Farm, near Dundee, recently.
The event, which was attended by more than 700 people, showcased the latest developments in the potato industry, with a variety of demonstrations, cutting-edge research, and trade exhibits focusing on how the potato community can unite to futureproof the industry.
There were 50 exhibitors in total. From commercial breeders introducing new varieties, to agronomists demonstrating advancements in crop protection and researchers on hand to discuss their most recent findings, visitors had access to a wealth of scientific knowledge and expertise.
There were 27 field plots demonstrated by 19 companies, 25 outdoor exhibitors, four static machinery exhibitors and nine seminar speakers.
Those who visited the Hutton tent were able to gain information on virus, PCN, bacteria control, the Fight Against Blight project and NPIC.
This year’s seminars were opened by Professor Ian Toth, Director of the National Potato Innovation Centre
Ian discussed the importance of the NPIC’s partnerships with other potato science organisations and members across the supply chain to identify key targets for future scientific endeavours.
“Futureproofing the potato industry remains a key goal of the Hutton and our partners. Bringing science and industry together helps us to build long-term sustainability and resilience for the years to come, and PiP is an excellent opportunity to knowledge share and discuss the threats and opportunities facing the sector,” said Ian.
“We thank our partners Agrii and SRUC for their continued support for the event, as well as our sponsors the Scottish Society for Crop Research (SSRC), GB Potatoes, and the Seed Potato Organisation.”
A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed with Gansu Academy of Agricultural Sciences at the event to discuss the efficiency of joint collection and sharing of potato germplasm resources between the two countries and to promote the sustainable development of the potato industry in both countries.
