Agriculture

Simon Fraher on Sweet Potato Genetics: A Journey in Breeding Innovation In a world where innovation in agriculture is crucial, Simon Fraher stands out in the field of sweet potato genetics. Currently completing his doctorate at NC State University, Fraher has dedicated himself to enhancing the sweet potato community through groundbreaking research. The Impact of His Research on Sweet Potatoes Fraher’s work focuses on developing molecular markers for guava root knot nematodes and pioneering approaches in genomic selection....

Spud Reduction: A Turning Point for American Potatoes In a startling shift for the agricultural landscape, Idaho potato acres are set to decrease by 15,000 acres this year compared to 2024. This equates to a 5 percent drop from 315,000 acres in 2024 to 300,000 acres in 2025. Analyzing the Potato Industry The total U.S. potato acreage is also forecast to fall by 4 percent, dropping from 930,000 acres in 2024 to 891,000 acres in 2025....

Fresh Potato Talks with Japan Pt 2 Talk about spud diplomacy and get ready for a mash-up of agricultural insights. This report shines a light on the ongoing discussions about fresh potato trade with Japan. Given the historical context and current market dynamics, this isn’t just a casual sit-down; it’s about forging valuable connections. Insights into the Trade Relationship Under the surface of these talks lies potential for better trade agreements....

Fresh Potato Talks with Japan Pt 2 In a landscape marked by agricultural negotiations, talks with Japanese officials are stirring hopes for better trade agreements and improved access for U.S. fresh potatoes in Japan. The Unfolding Story of Trade From the Ag Information Network, Bob Larson relays insights from Kam Quarles, CEO of the National Potato Council, who articulates the cautious optimism surrounding these discussions. Quarles emphasizes that while the potential for enhanced U....

Potatoes Prairie-wide Dive deep into the world of potatoes, where fertile Prairie soil meets innovative farming techniques. From the robust varieties sprouting across fields to the cutting-edge agriculture methods illuminating the path forward, this exploration unearths the heart of potato farming. A Bounty of Varieties As farmers cultivate their fields, they experiment with a mosaic of potato varieties. Each type tells a story, rich with heritage and the promise of delicious dishes....

Potentially Good News for Potato Growers The potato industry is buzzing with excitement as discussions unfold regarding potential better access for U.S. potatoes in Japan. This development comes as the Trump administration initiates talks aimed at removing both tariff and non-tariff trade barriers that have long hindered U.S. agricultural exports. Bright Prospects for Exports According to the National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles, the efforts to secure fresh potato access to Japan have been ongoing....

Fresh Potato Talks with Japan Pt 1 From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson. Potentially good news for potato growers as word gets out that the Trump administration has begun talks with Japan to eliminate tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. Access and Economic Impact of Fresh Potatoes National Potato Council CEO, Kam Quarles says they’ve been on this for a while… QUARLES … “Since it became obvious that there was going to be a negotiation, specifically with Japan, we have been pushing the administration, and members of Congress have certainly been weighing in, wanting to make this market access for U....

Fresh Potato Talks with Japan Pt 1 From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson. Potentially good news for potato growers as word gets out that the Trump administration has begun talks with Japan to eliminate tariff and non-tariff trade barriers. The Importance of Trade Access National Potato Council CEO, Kam Quarles, says they’ve been pushing for this access for years. If granted, it could mean about $150 million a year in new U....

Potatoes Prairie-wide April 24, 2025 Columns— In the vast expanse of the prairie landscape, potatoes thrive beneath the soil, their significance rooted deeply in agricultural practices and culinary traditions. This article delves into the importance of potato cultivation in this region. The Heart of Prairie Agriculture The potato is more than just a staple; it’s a symbol of resilience and hearty sustenance in prairie communities. Farmers have adapted their methods over generations, ensuring that the unique climate and soil conditions contribute to robust yields....

Wisconsin’s Certified Seed Potato Bill Clears State Senate In a unanimous decision, the Wisconsin State Senate advanced legislation designed to fortify the state’s certified seed potato regulations, crucial for safeguarding the region’s esteemed potato crop. Legislative Impact on Potato Crop Patrick Testin, the Chairman of the Senate Agriculture Committee, shared insights on Senate Bill 164, which not only escalates fines from a mere $150 to a staggering $5,000 for violations but also imposes an additional $5,000 for every acre planted in violation....