Events

A Day to Remember: Putting potato storage in the spotlight – NAPSO and PAA co-host landmark Symposium

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) co-hosted a successful Potato Storage Symposium with the Potato Association of America (PAA) in Madison, showcasing global expertise in storage innovations. The event featured expert presentations on sprout suppression and disease risks, along with an engaging panel discussion. Positive attendee feedback highlighted the need for more focus on storage economics, signaling NAPSO’s intention to expand its influence and initiatives beyond potatoes.

July 29, 2025

Storing potatoes safe and profitable: NAPSO calls on growers to join upcoming Storage Symposium

The inaugural NAPSO Storage Symposium on July 28, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin, aims to address critical post-harvest potato storage challenges affecting North America. Hosted by NAPSO and PAA, the event will facilitate discussions among growers, storage managers, and industry experts on rising costs, climate volatility, and evolving regulations. Attendees will engage in technical discussions, keynote addresses, and strategic dialogue.

July 22, 2025

Soil health under scrutiny: Spud Smart panel tackles black dot and microbial dynamics

Spud Smart magazine is hosting a panel of experts on August 5 to discuss black dot disease and soil microbiomes’ role in potato cultivation, addressing growers’ concerns amid rising input costs. Expert insights will cover disease management, soil health, and the economic impact of interventions. Growers can submit questions until July 24 to shape the panel’s discussion, fostering engagement and addressing contemporary agricultural challenges.

July 21, 2025

NAPSO gains traction online and in the field: NAPSO+ to highlight cross-crop storage collaboration

The North America Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) is witnessing increased online and in-field engagement as it prepares for its Potato Storage Symposium on July 28. The organization launched NAPSO+ to address storage needs beyond potatoes, indicating an expansion rather than a rebranding. The upcoming webinar series will cover essential topics for the potato storage community, reinforcing NAPSO’s role as a key resource for safety and technical guidance in the agricultural sector.

July 15, 2025

Potatoes in Practice 2025 programme announced: Science, sustainability, and solutions in the field

Potatoes in Practice 2025, the UK’s leading field-based potato event, returns to the James Hutton Institute’s Balruddery farm on August 7. Hosted through the National Potato Innovation Centre, it brings together researchers, agronomists, and industry leaders to explore cutting-edge topics like modern breeding, gene editing, sustainability, nematode threats, and pest management. With live demos, seminars, and expert panels, the event aims to inspire a more resilient and forward-thinking potato sector.

July 10, 2025

PotatoEurope 2025: Technology, innovation and live action in the field

PotatoEurope 2025 will be hosted on 3-4 September at the WUR Open Field Research Centre in the Netherlands, themed ‘Innovate, Network, Grow’. With over 300 exhibitors and expected 15,000 visitors, the event focuses on smart sustainable solutions in potato cultivation. Attendees can see live demonstrations of advanced machinery and optical sorting technology. The event emphasizes innovation, knowledge sharing, and strengthening networks within the potato industry.

July 7, 2025

Charting a sustainable path: PSA’s 2025 Summer Symposium focuses on resilience in potato production

The Potato Sustainability Alliance (PSA) will host its 2025 Summer Symposium from July 15–17 in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The event brings together growers, processors, researchers, and industry partners to explore key sustainability topics, including variety selection, pollinator health, and value chain collaboration. Held at The Holman Grand Hotel and the Culinary Institute of Canada, the symposium aims to drive meaningful dialogue and innovation in sustainable potato production across North America.

July 6, 2025

Europatat Congress 2025: ‘There is a future for potatoes’

The Europatat Congress was held in Lille, France from June 11-13, 2025, marking its second occurrence in the country. Leaders Tigran Richter and Dominique Père emphasized France’s crucial role in the potato sector amid market uncertainties. French astronaut Patrick Baudry inspired attendees with his adventurous experiences. The event explored the French potato market, with speakers expressing cautious optimism while acknowledging various future challenges.

July 4, 2025

Breeding for the heat: Texas Potato Field Day showcases high-solid varieties bred for Southern climates

Texas A&M’s annual Potato Field Day in Springlake, scheduled for July 16, will showcase advanced russet clones like Dune Russet and Duncan Russet, which are engineered for heat and viral resistance. Attendees will learn about breeding innovations and crop insights from local growers. The event, organized by Texas A&M AgriLife Research, is free to participate and aims to connect research with farmer needs.

July 2, 2025

Europatat webinar sparks critical dialogue on late blight management strategies across Europe

On July 1, Europatat held a webinar addressing the threat of Phytophthora infestans to Europe’s potato sector, featuring experts and stakeholders discussing resistance challenges and regulatory updates. Highlights included calls for coordinated efforts to monitor pathogen evolution, improve resistance strategies, and implement supportive EU policies to enhance farmer resources. Urgent collective action is essential to ensure affordable potato products and farmer livelihoods amid growing pressures from late blight.

July 2, 2025

Germany launches “Potato Specialist” training program to cultivate expertise across the supply chain

The German Potato Trade Association’s (DKHV) “Potato Specialist” advanced training program commenced last week with 46 participants engaging in a three-day immersive experience focused on potato biology, agronomy, and industry practices. Held in Hermannsburg, the program included theoretical and practical elements, enhancing understanding through expert lectures and field demonstrations. Participants lauded the initiative for its holistic approach.

June 30, 2025

A global staple celebrated: International Day of the Potato highlights the crop’s role in feeding the world

On May 30, the International Day of the Potato was celebrated, emphasizing the potato’s significant role in global food security, feeding over two billion people. As a resilient and nutritious crop, it addresses hunger, supports sustainable agriculture, and helps combat malnutrition, as Lukie Pieterse writes in this article. The potato holds potential for economic opportunity and empowerment, particularly for women farmers worldwide. Potato News Today will explore these themes further in an upcoming feature soon.

June 1, 2025

Potatoes New Zealand marks International Day of Potato: “Shaping History, Feeding the Future”

Potatoes New Zealand is set to celebrate International Day of Potato on May 30, 2025, highlighting the crop’s historical significance and future role in sustainable agriculture and food security. The theme “Shaping history, feeding the future” emphasizes the potato’s journey and its impact on cultures. The event invites Kiwis to appreciate local potatoes and the hardworking growers contributing to the industry’s innovative, resilient practices.

May 21, 2025

Potato storage at the crossroads: PAA and NAPSO to host landmark Storage Symposium in Wisconsin

The North American Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) will co-host a Technical Storage Symposium during the Potato Association of America (PAA) Annual Meeting on July 28, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin. The event aims to address post-harvest challenges, focusing on innovations in storage chemistry, facility engineering, and regulatory standards. It serves as a crucial platform for knowledge exchange among experts, enhancing sustainable practices in the potato industry.

May 20, 2025

South Africa set to celebrate International Day of the Potato with public market events and industry pride

On May 30, Potatoes South Africa (Potatoes SA) will celebrate the International Day of the Potato, emphasizing its role in food security and rural livelihoods. The theme “Shaping History, Feeding the Future” highlights the potato’s importance. Activities include Fresh Produce Market Days in Cape Town and Johannesburg, featuring live broadcasts, educational content, and engagement activities. Potatoes SA aims to increase per capita consumption while showcasing industry collaboration.

May 16, 2025

Leading voices in potato industry to judge PotatoEurope 2025 Innovation Award

The PotatoEurope 2025 Innovation Award will feature a diverse expert jury to recognize groundbreaking developments in the potato sector at the trade fair on September 3-4, 2025, in Lelystad, Netherlands. The jury includes industry experts from various fields, focusing on innovation’s role in the sector’s future. The event is nearly sold out, attracting significant interest from domestic and international participants in the potato supply chain.

April 22, 2025

Potato farming with drones: Technology advancements in Western Australian horticulture

On April 11, 45 potato growers and industry stakeholders participated in a high-tech field event near Pemberton, featuring drone demonstrations and discussions on advanced horticulture technology. Grower Danny Omodei shared his positive experiences with drones, while Queensland experts presented on mechanisation. The event highlighted innovations like the Open Weed Locator and underscored the industry’s commitment to adopting new technology for efficiency amidst rising production costs.

April 20, 2025

‘Taste the future’: RPE Canada showcases premium potatoes and new ‘O Canada’ launch at CPMA

RPE Canada plans to make a significant impact at the 2025 CPMA Convention & Trade Show in Montréal from April 8-10. Booth 101 will showcase Canadian-grown potatoes, innovative packaging, and fresh options aimed at retailers and industry professionals. Attendees can sample unique potato dishes and preview the upcoming product “O Canada.” RPE’s mission focuses on high-quality potatoes and enhancing retail partnerships to drive growth.

March 27, 2025

Optimizing potato storage practises: Key insights await at Potato Storage Day 2025

Potato Storage Day 2025, set for May 21 at Fleet Lodge Farm, Holbeach in the UK, aims to enhance potato storage practices. Organized by Adrian Cunnington and Simon Faulkner, this free half-day event will feature key topics like ventilation, humidity control, sprout prevention, and advances in storage technology. Attendees can also network and learn from industry experts. Registration in advance is encouraged for planning purposes.

March 22, 2025

Pulsemaster’s Pulsed Electric Field Technology to shine at SNAXPO25 in Orlando

Pulsemaster, a leader in Pulsed Electric Field (PEF) technology, plans to showcase its innovative PEF processing systems at SNAXPO25. This technology enhances efficiency, reduces waste, and improves the quality of snacks like French fries and chips. PEF processing allows better raw material utilization, lower oil absorption, and increased sustainability, meeting the growing consumer demand for healthier, high-quality snack products. Pulsemaster aims to expand its global footprint in the snack industry.

March 19, 2025

Registrations now open for Europatat Congress 2025: Shaping the future of Europe’s potato industry in Lille

Europatat and Fedepom have opened registrations for the Europatat Congress at Hôtel Barrière, Lille, from June 11-13, 2025. The theme is “Potato leaders of the future: deciding under uncertainty.” Key events include commission meetings, a General Assembly, and a keynote speech by former astronaut Patrick Baudry. The Congress will feature discussions on the French table potato market and facilitate networking through social events, including a Gala Dinner.

March 13, 2025

President and board chairman of Black Gold Farms Gregg Halverson named 2025 Potato Person of the Year

Gregg Halverson, president and board chairman of Black Gold Farms, was honored as the 2025 Potato Person of the Year at the National Potato Council’s Washington Summit. His career in the potato industry began with his grandfather, and he values working alongside family. Halverson significantly contributed to the company’s growth and diversification, expanding its offerings and operations across multiple states.

February 25, 2025

Farmers and industry experts to gather at Southern Rocky Mountain Ag Conference

The 43rd Southern Rocky Mountain Agriculture Conference and Trade Show is set for Feb. 4-6 at the Ski-Hi Complex in Monte Vista. Hosted by Colorado State University and local organizations, the theme focuses on sustainable management of water, land, and businesses. Key events include legislative updates, a Potato Business Summit, and a keynote by Stephen Nicholson, with water discussions on Feb. 6. Preregistration is available.

February 3, 2025

PotatoEurope announces international conference: ‘Integrated Crop Management (ICM) – The Future of Potato Farming’

PotatoEurope 2025 will be held on September 3 and 4 at Wageningen University & Research in Lelystad, focusing on “Integrated Crop Management (ICM) – The Future of Potato Farming.” The conference will explore sustainable, resilient, and profitable potato farming strategies. Experts will discuss crop diversity, pest control methods, and effective soil management, emphasizing networking within the potato value chain. Registration details will be available soon.

January 30, 2025

Canadian Potato Summit 2025: Virtual event packed with expert insights and agronomy updates

The Canadian Potato Summit, organized by Potatoes in Canada, will be held virtually on January 16, 2025, at 12:00pm ET. This free half-day event features various live sessions addressing industry updates and agronomy advancements, led by notable experts. Topics include pest management, soil health, and national potato variety trials. Registration and details are available on the magazine’s website.

January 15, 2025