SAC Rolls Out Latest Potato Research Results
16/07/07

Three Potatoes in Partnership open days, due to be held in July will provide an opportunity for growers and others in the industry to hear about the latest developments in a 5-year Scottish Executive commissioned research programme on potato breeding and potato pathology.

The results of the research which is underway at the Scottish Crop Research Institute are being rolled out to the industry by SAC.

Potatoes in Partnership open days will be held at:

• Sauchenloan, Fisherford, Colpy, Aberdeenshire (courtesy of Mr Ian Cruikshank),
  24 July 2007 (10.00 – 12.00 and again at 13.30 to 15.30)
• Gilchorn, Inverkeillor, Arbroath (courtesy of Mr Guy Stirling),
  25 July2007 (10.00 – 12.00 and again at 13.30 to 15.30)
• Luffness Mains, Aberlady, East Lothian (courtesy of Mr Allan Stevenson),
  27 July 2007 (10.00 – 12.00)
  Further information is available on the SAC web at: www.sac.ac.uk/news/forthcomingevents/

SAC potato expert, Dr Stuart Wale explained,

“The research programme, which is now into its second year, focuses on variety host resistance, potato blight, soil-borne pest & disease diagnostics, aphid monitoring, powdery scab, potato cyst nematode, crop uniformity, and non-water control of common scab. Last year as the work got underway, SAC held the first of its Potatoes in Partnership open days at these sites. Now, a further year into the research programme, we are able to demonstrate the most recent results.

“Our aim is to use practical experience gained on these working farms to explain the latest ideas and ‘best management practices’ that will reduce disease and produce a more successful crop.”

The Potatoes in Partnership open days are being held as part of SAC’s Scottish Executive funded ‘Success through Knowledge ' campaign. The events have also received support from the British Potato Council who will provide additional information on the topics under discussion.

Lunch is provided at each Potatoes in Partnership open day.

Anyone planning to attend should contact Sandra Chalmers.

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