NCERA211: Potato Research and Extension Program (was NCT-190)
Statement of Issues and Justification
The cultivated potato, Solanum tuberosum, is the most important vegetable crop and the fourth most important staple food crop in the world. The potato is also the highest volume vegetable crop in the North Central Region. Potato production in the North Central Region accounts for approximately 28% of the total U.S. acreage at an estimated farm gate value of $453 million. Potato processing adds value to the economic contribution of the crop to the North Central Region. The proximity of the North Central Region to metropolitan areas in the Midwestern, Eastern, and Southern U.S. provides ample opportunities for marketing of fresh market potatoes from throughout the region. In addition, a large portion of potatoes produced in the North Central Region are processed into French fries, chips, hash browns and other potato products.Potato produces more food energy and protein than cereal grains, and the lysine content of potato complements cereal-based diets that are deficient in this amino acid. Potato is a high yielding crop and grown commercially in all 50 states. U.S. potato farmers produce 22 million metric tons of potatoes annually on approximately 1.4 million acres, with a farm gate value of greater than $2.7 billion. The demand for potatoes is increasing as per capita consumption of potatoes (approximately 143 lbs.) in the United States is increasing.
Public research is the cornerstone of development of profitable potato management systems in the North Central Region as well as North America. Variety development has been an important part of this research as potato breeding programs in the North Central region have developed 5 of the top 10 varieties. The varieties developed include all market types--reds, russet, and round whites for chipping. In addition, pest management specialists have created effective integrated pest management systems (i.e. WISDOM) and resistance management strategies which have increased production despite pressures from pests such as early and late blight, Colorado potato beetle, and weeds.
Despite the research facilitated advances made in potato production systems, a number of production and environmental issues threaten the future of the industry. Pesticide resistance continues to threaten growers ability to manage late and early blight, Colorado potato beetle, and other species. New viruses such as potato virus NTN and potato mop-top virus threaten the yield and quality of future crops. Varieties are needed with quality characteristics of the fresh market and processing industry and better adapted to pest pressures and climate of the North Central Region. The impact of potato production systems on water quality (nutrient and pesticide leaching) and the environment in general is being increasingly scrutinized and criticized. An NCR committee for potato production is critical for facilitating exchange of research ideas and results among potato related scientists and encouraging future research collaborations. The committee will be critical for improving the economic stability and minimizing the environmental impact of future potato production systems, especially since the number of public scientists working on potatoes is declining.
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