Michigan potatoes bring billions into the economy, thanks in large part to the continued commitment of PSM and research faculty, staff and students
We caught up with Chris Long, PSM Potato Extension Specialist and a key part of the team that makes potato research possible here at PSM.
How does MSU’s potato research team contribute to this industry? “In many ways this is a team approach,” said Chris; Dr. Jaime Willbur works with both the commercial and seed potato industries in Michigan to manage and contain viral infections. She is also instrumental in supporting the industry in pathogen management. Especially with late blight, but also many others; Dr. Erin Burns is working to improve voluntary potato management in rotational crops;
Dr. Marisol Quintanilla focuses on helping the potato industry manage the causative organisms in the potato early death complex through her work in soil health. Dr. Kurt Steinke leads fertility research and addresses appropriate nutrient management strategies to maintain economic viability while remaining an environmentally friendly industry. The work of Dr. Dave Douches with genetic improvements that will positively impact the Michigan potato industry's ability to produce high-quality potatoes for processing and use as table material; Dr. Zsofia Szendrei researches and develops industry-standard insecticide practices that integrate economics, healthy insect protection and environmental protection;
Dr. Younsuk Dong works with Michigan's water and weather resources to help potato producers with the affective and underuse of natural resources such as water, and I work primarily on variety commercialization and expansion, as well as outreach efforts to support all of this great research and Technology to transfer to Michigan potato industry.
With this success comes challenges. “A“With our team, we are constantly confronted with the financial infrastructure requirements needed to support these research efforts,” adds Chris.
Did you find this article useful?
Please tell us why?
Submit
Comments are closed.