The 2024 Ontario Potato Field Day, held on Thursday, August 22, has once again proven its significance as a premier event for potato farmers in the region and across Canada. Organized by Dr. Eugenia Banks, a renowned potato specialist with the Ontario Potato Board, this year’s Field Day drew over 300 attendees, setting a new record for the event.
“The attendance of 300+ guests exceeded expectations,” Dr. Banks shared in her recent newsletter. “It was the largest number of attendees we have ever had.”
Mobile Trailer Washer Steals the Show
One of the main attractions of the day was the outstanding display by HJV Equipment, which received high praise from growers. “As per growers’ opinion, it is probably the best in North America!” Dr. Banks remarked.
The mobile trailer washer, in particular, captured significant interest, with HJV Equipment staff actively engaging with growers to discuss the intricate details of the machinery on display.
Innovations on Display: The Trade Show and Variety Exhibit
The Trade Show, showcasing the latest advancements in potato farming technologies, was another major highlight, drawing a large and eager crowd. Attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations that could potentially revolutionize their farming practices.
The variety display also drew considerable attention, featuring both new and standard potato varieties. Among the highlights were promising russets, white-fleshed, and yellow-fleshed varieties. Dr. Banks noted the excitement around two new chippers, stating, “They were round and even-sized, but the real test will be when they are fried.”
Spotlight on Late-Blight and Virus-Resistant Varieties
A standout presentation was delivered by Dr. Peter Vander Zaag, a distinguished potato grower, breeder, and global scientist. Dr. Vander Zaag showcased new late-blight and virus-resistant varieties, which are particularly suited for organic production.
These varieties, developed through a collaborative effort of breeders including Joyce and Robert Coffin, are already being cultivated in First Nations communities in Northern Ontario.
The showcased varieties included SP 80, a yellow-fleshed potato with remarkable resistance to late blight, and SP 81, an oblong variety ideal for French fries.
Dr. Banks highlighted the unique qualities of SP 81, noting that it can be stored cold and still produce good fries and chips even after being warmed in the spring.
Community and Camaraderie: A Delicious Conclusion
Beyond the educational and technical presentations, the event also offered attendees a taste of community and camaraderie. Syngenta provided a delicious BBQ, while WD Potato, Frito Lay, and Super Puffs contributed snacks. Sweet corn from W.H. Dorsey Farms and refreshments from Holmes Agro and Alliance Agri-Turf rounded out the offerings, ensuring that everyone enjoyed a satisfying end to the day.
The 2024 Ontario Potato Field Day was a true celebration of innovation, community, and the enduring passion of potato growers in the region. Dr. Banks’ leadership and dedication continue to elevate this event, making it a must-attend for anyone involved in the potato industry. This year’s success only further cements its reputation as a premier gathering for potato professionals.
Source: Dr. Eugenia Banks
EugeniaBanks@onpotato.ca
Cover image: The 2024 Ontario Potato Field Day, held on Thursday, August 22, has once again proven its significance as a premier event for potato farmers in the region. Organized by Dr. Eugenia Banks, a renowned potato specialist with the Ontario Potato Board, this year’s Field Day drew over 300 attendees, setting a new record for the event.
“The attendance of 300+ guests exceeded expectations,” Dr. Banks shared in her recent newsletter. “It was the largest number of attendees we have ever had.”
Mobile Trailer Washer Steals the Show
One of the main attractions of the day was the outstanding display by HJV Equipment, which received high praise from growers. “As per growers’ opinion, it is probably the best in North America!” Dr. Banks remarked. The mobile trailer washer, in particular, captured significant interest, with HJV Equipment staff actively engaging with growers to discuss the intricate details of the machinery on display.
Innovations on Display: The Trade Show and Variety Exhibit
The Trade Show, showcasing the latest advancements in potato farming technologies, was another major highlight, drawing a large and eager crowd. Attendees had the opportunity to explore cutting-edge innovations that could potentially revolutionize their farming practices.
The variety display also drew considerable attention, featuring both new and standard potato varieties. Among the highlights were promising russets, white-fleshed, and yellow-fleshed varieties. Dr. Banks noted the excitement around two new chippers, stating, “They were round and even-sized, but the real test will be when they are fried.”
Spotlight on Late-Blight and Virus-Resistant Varieties
A standout presentation was delivered by Dr. Peter Vander Zaag, a distinguished potato grower, breeder, and global scientist. Dr. Vander Zaag showcased new late-blight and virus-resistant varieties, which are particularly suited for organic production. These varieties, developed through a collaborative effort of breeders including Joyce and Robert Coffin, are already being cultivated in First Nations communities in Northern Ontario.
The showcased varieties included SP 80, a yellow-fleshed potato with remarkable resistance to late blight, and SP 81, an oblong variety ideal for French fries. Dr. Banks highlighted the unique qualities of SP 81, noting that it can be stored cold and still produce good fries and chips even after being warmed in the spring.
Community and Camaraderie: A Delicious Conclusion
Beyond the educational and technical presentations, the event also offered attendees a taste of community and camaraderie. Syngenta provided a delicious BBQ, while WD Potato, Frito Lay, and Super Puffs contributed snacks. Sweet corn from W.H. Dorsey Farms and refreshments from Holmes Agro and Alliance Agri-Turf rounded out the offerings, ensuring that everyone enjoyed a satisfying end to the day.
The 2024 Ontario Potato Field Day was a true celebration of innovation, community, and the enduring passion of potato growers in the region. Dr. Banks’ leadership and dedication continue to elevate this event, making it a must-attend for anyone involved in the potato industry. This year’s success only further cements its reputation as a premier gathering for potato professionals.
Source: Dr. Eugenia Banks
EugeniaBanks@onpotato.ca
Cover image: Syngenta provided a delicious BBQ. Credit Dr. Banks
Discover more from Potato News Today
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
