News From the USPB

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May/June 2015

Country News From the USPB PVY Resistance: A Moving Target

POTATO COUNTRY 6777 NE Vinings Way #1324, Hillsboro, OR 97124

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Former NFL Lineman Tackles Potato Farming

Vol. 31 No. 4

www.potatocountry.com

Country

Table of Contents

Columbia Publishing 6777 NE Vinings Way #1324 Hillsboro, Oregon 97124 Phone: (509) 248-2452

May/June 2015 4 United States Potato Board Annual Meeting 2015

Editorial Board

Domestic Marketing Adjustments, Salad Bar Challenge Highlight USPB Agenda

Washington State Potato Commission

10 Bouchey Potatoes

Chris Voigt Executive Director

(509) 765-8845

From Football Fields to Potato Fields

18 United States Potato Board

Oregon Potato Commission

U.S. Frozen Potato Exports: A Success Story

22 PVY Resistance: A Moving Target

(503) 239-4763

Bill Brewer Executive Director

Insect Identification Quiz: Andy Jensen, Ph.D., regional research director, Washington, Idaho and Oregon potato commissions. Disease Identification Quiz: Dr. Jeff Miller, plant pathologist and president and CEO of Miller Research, Rupert, Idaho.

Potato Country Contacts Denise Keller ....................... [email protected] Editor

J. Mike Stoker [email protected] Publisher / Advertising Manager

Patricia Zundel .................. [email protected] Advertising Sales

Jeraleh Kastner ................. [email protected] Production / Circulation Manager

D. Brent Clement [email protected] Consultant

Bouchey Potatoes in Wapato, Wash., is under new ownership. The farm’s 350 acres of potatoes, 60 percent of which are grown organically, were planted in March and will be harvested beginning in July. See story on page 10.

Departments 8 Insect Quiz 14 Market Report 16 Disease Quiz

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17 Calendar

On The Cover

20 In the Market

Brian Howard is in his second season growing potatoes after his family’s farm, which grows mint and dill, took ownership of Bouchey Potatoes last year.

Potato Country

ADVERTISING SALES For information about advertising rates, mechanics, deadlines, copy submission, mailing, contract conditions and other information, call Mike Stoker at (509) 949-1620 or email [email protected]. Or call Patricia Zundel at (208) 201-8781 or email [email protected]. SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION U.S........................ 1 year, $18.00; 2 years $31.00, 3 years, $41.00. Canada ................. 1 year, $30.00; 2 years $49.00; 3 years 68.00. Foreign ................. 1 year, $45.00; 2 years $85.00; 3 years $121.00. Payments accepted by check, Visa, MasterCard or American Express. Subscriptions can be entered online at www.potatocountry.com. Email address changes/corrections to [email protected] or send to Potato Country, 6777 NE Vinings Way #1324, Hillsboro, OR 97124.

13 In the News

21 PGW

EDITORIAL INFORMATION Potato Country is interested in newsworthy material related to potato production and marketing. Contributions from all segments of the industry are welcome. Submit news releases, new product submissions, stories and photos via email to: [email protected].

May/June 2015

Potato Country magazine (ISSN 0886-4780), is published nine times per year, mailed under permit No. 410, paid at San Dimas, CA. It is produced by Columbia Publishing, 6777 NE Vinings Way #1324, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Copyright 2015. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose without the express written permission of Columbia Publishing. For information on reprints call (509) 949-1620. CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED Send to: Potato Country, 6777 NE Vinings Way #1324, Hillsboro, OR 97124

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United States Potato Board Annual Meeting 2015

Domestic Marke Bar Challenge H

1.

By Sandy Lindblad Lee

D

2.

3.

4. 1. Steve Cottom of Cottom Farm in Dillon, Mont., (left) and Roger Christensen of Maverick Potato Co. in Center, Colo., visit at the annual USPB dinner reception. Photo by Sandy Lindblad Lee 2. Carl Hoverson of Hoverson Farms in Larimore, N.D., speaks to the board after assuming his role as chairman. Photo by Sandy Lindblad Lee 3. Brett Jensen, outgoing chairman, prepares to hand over the gavel to newly-elected chairman Carl Hoverson. Photo by Sandy Lindblad Lee 4. USPB members are sworn in during the final session at the annual meeting. Photo by Sandy Lindblad Lee

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May/June 2015

omestic marketing adjustments based on a comprehensive analysis, the “Salad Bar Challenge” partnership, and a vote to boost international marketing efforts were all part of the actions taken at the 2015 United States Potato Board (USPB) Annual Meeting, held March 11-12 in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Highlighting the packed agenda during the March 11 sessions was a report on the results of a comprehensive market study, which John Toaspern, the board’s chief marketing officer, emphasized are “so compelling” that they are influencing the domestic marketing allocations for the next fiscal year and beyond. Kate Thompson, director of insights and strategy for the Sterling Rice Group, the firm spearheading the study, emphasized that “a potato is like a Chevrolet. It can be an economy car, but it can also be a Corvette.” She used the automobile analogy when suggesting that the versatility and convenience of potatoes can range from simple, economical and convenient to speedy, attractive gourmet treats, and she reviewed findings that focus on where that message can most effectively be delivered. Thompson explained that the board funded a “market segmentation analysis” intended to “provide a comprehensive look at the entire market,” including “people’s attitudes and behaviors at home and at foodservice, to help identify and quantify opportunities and challenges.” The 3,000 consumers who participated in an online survey were asked questions about their lifestyles,

where they eat, demographic backgrounds, and what drives their decisions on potato purchases, including how they cook them at home and what they order at restaurants. She pointed to five key findings which she feels “can move the dial on consumption.” First, “Convenience rules,” Thompson said. “We can’t hammer this point home enough.” Nearly 60 percent of home meals are comprised of “at least something that speaks of convenience.” Second, while “convenience is an ‘ante,’” when considering what food to eat, “value and flavor” are most important. The third key point is that consumers prioritize fresh and natural/ unprocessed when it comes to healthy food. Next, foodservice is “an especially important channel for potatoes.” While about one in five meals is eaten at sitdown or fast-food restaurants, “potato dishes are the number one item eaten at foodservice.” Fifth, “We’re stuck in a potato rut.” Thompson said 86 percent of survey respondents reported “being very satisfied with eating potatoes at home,” but consumers “prefer more variety in meals,” implying the need to show more new, convenient ways to prepare potatoes. Thompson went on to cite seven distinct segments of American consumers, but she suggested a focus on two of these targets audiences: the “creative cooks” and the “live-to-eat” group. The creative cooks make up about 15 percent of the total. They are characterized as looking to cook at home because they

eting Adjustments, Salad Highlight USPB Agenda love the challenge of new recipes and creating healthier, innovative meals. The “live-to-eaters” are “a bit older, may still have kids living in the house, and they eat both at home and in restaurants,” and they want convenience. Together, as “food enthusiasts,” these two groups make up 26 percent of consumers. Thompson suggested efforts to influence this group, which also makes over

44 percent of the food–buying decisions. “Food enthusiasts have positive perceptions towards potatoes, but they feel they lack excitement and adventure.” She said consumers “have a sense of nostalgia about potatoes, along with the acknowledgement that potatoes are coming back” and will become more popular. Overall, while this 26 percent of

“food enthusiasts” should be emphasized, she made sure to add that this industry needs to be willing to mix up marketing messages to reach all segments. The remaining target audiences identified were the value and convenience shoppers (18 percent), cooks who seek healthy food (16 percent), adventurous diners (11 percent), shortorder cooks (16.4 percent) comprised of

Members of the new USPB Executive Committee are, from left: Nolan Masser, Pitman, Pa.; Brian Kirschenmann, Bakersfield, Calif.; John Halverson, Arbyrd, Mo.; Marty Myers, Boardman, Ore.; Carl Hoverson, incoming chairman, Larimore, N.D.; Blair Richardson, CEO, USPB; Karlene Hardy, Oakley, Idaho; Brett Jensen, outgoing USPB chairman, Idaho Falls, Idaho; Phil Hickman, Horntown, Va.; Ken Burback, Center, Colo.; Mike Pink, Mesa, Wash.; Chris Wada, Idaho Falls, Idaho. Photo courtesy USPB May/June

Potato Country

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mothers tasked with making something everyone will eat, and the people too busy to cook (11 percent). “We have to be there to inspire them and ignite that hunger for potatoes,” Thompson concluded. “Potatoes are becoming trendy,” added Blair Richardson, USPB president and CEO, quoting an article in the LA Times during his “State of the Industry” report during the March 11 afternoon session. “In this time of the emergence of a more adventurous consumer, it is important to emphasize that potatoes are a good value, they are flavorful, and they make everything else taste better.” He also noted that “it is a great time in our industry. We have a chance to go on the offensive.”

USPB Goes for Potato-Friendly Salad Bar Match Another endeavor generating considerable discussion and enthusiasm at the annual meeting was the USPB’s partnership with the “Salad Bar Challenge.” The board has committed up to $900,000 from its reserve funds to purchase up to 300 “potato-friendly” salad bars during the next year – if the industry matches those donations. Richardson explained that about 4,000 salad bars are already in place in U.S. schools, and the overall challenge

is to add 3,000 more over a five-year period. However, the board’s continued participation in the program is contingent on its success. Richardson introduced the idea to the industry in January at the 2015 Potato Expo in Orlando, Florida. The cost of each bar, which is a hot/cold salad bar, is $2,825, and the board will match every salad bar donated by industry members in the first year. Preliminary results will be evaluated from a testing area in a Denver school district with 16 schools that already have nine of the bars in place. Preliminary results from the Denver district will be presented to board members in August. “We will stop the project if it doesn’t work,” Richardson emphasized, assuring the USPB members that the board is not asking them to “blindly invest” in the potato bar concept. “Donating a salad bar gets their attention,” he noted. “If we can get one more potato item a week on school menus [throughout the U.S.], that is equivalent to 4 million cwt of potatoes.” The effort is a partnership with the United Fresh Produce Association’s “Let’s Move Salad Bars to Schools.” United Fresh president and CEO Tom Stenzel told the board that if it works for the potato industry, it can do more than increase consumption. He said it helps with cooperation with school foodser-

Linda Weyers of the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee, Monte Vista, Colo.; Segundo Diaz of Martinez Farms, Alamosa, Colo.; and David Tonso of RPE, Monte Vista, Colo., chat during a break in the morning session. Photo by Sandy Lindblad Lee

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vice directors who “work hard every day trying to prepare foods that kids like and enjoy but are healthy. Potatoes fit perfectly well in that setting.” “The [USPB] staff has been tasked to measure this and bring that information back to you over the course of the next year so you will be able to make intelligent decisions on the future of the program,” Richardson added.

Export Slowdowns, Other Market Conditions Initiate USPB Actions Also at the meeting, board members voted to boost international marketing efforts with an additional $300,000 from the board’s reserve funds to help counteract the several threats to U.S. potato exports. A large European crop and the West Coast port slowdown are two of the factors prompting the potato industry to act. Marty Myers, co-chairman of the international marketing committee, reported potato exports have been down 13 percent this season, contrary to the 10-year trend of steadily-increasing exports of 10 to 15 percent. In other reports at the annual meeting, the board members representing the seven regional potato districts and an importer representative gave their reports and summaries from the input given in the various caucuses. Support for the programs and common concerns were expressed relating to the “Salad Bar Challenge,” the Alliance for Potato Research and Education, the structure and size of the USPB, and the efforts to increase diversity among the board member representatives. Among the housekeeping activities relating to the board’s structure and funding, members voted to keep the assessment rate the same for 2015-2016 at 3 cents per cwt. They also approved a bylaws change that officially allows for a first vice chairperson on the executive committee. At the conclusion of the March 12 session, Carl Hoverson of Hoverson Farms in Larimore, North Dakota, was elected the new chairman, and all board members were sworn in for the 20152016 term.

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Insect Biology Quiz Dr. Andy Jensen

Spring is in full swing, and that means pest insects and their natural enemies are getting going. This issue’s quiz has one question, with a format that might bring back memories of college placement exams. Question: Which one of these photos is “different” from the rest, and why? (Hint: You’ll have to look closely!)

A.

B.

C.

D.

This material is provided courtesy of Andy Jensen, Ph.D., Regional Research Director for the Idaho, Washington and Oregon Potato Commissions. He can be contacted at: (509) 760-4859 or [email protected]

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ANSWERS, Page 23 Potato Country

May/June 2015

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Bouchey Potatoes

From Football Fields to Potato Fields Story and photos by Denise Keller, Editor

Brothers-in-law Jeff Dahl (left) and Brian Howard farm 350 acres of potatoes in Wapato, Wash.

A

s it turns out, growing potatoes is a lot like playing professional football. Success in each is dependent on great attention to detail. Brian Howard is in a fairly unique position to be able to draw such a comparison between two seemingly unrelated careers. The former NFL defensive lineman played for the St. Louis Rams from 2004 to 2006 and now spends his days growing spuds in Wapato, Washington. “In football, success is all about the details - a step here, a hand position there,” Howard describes. “It’s true in growing potatoes, too. Because this is a family farm and because every detail matters so much, you can’t slack off. You have to stay on top of things. So it does feel similar to football in a way. It’s also similar in the fact that if you care about doing a good job, there’s pressure associated with it.”

Buying Bouchey Potatoes This is Howard’s second season growing potatoes. While he is a newcomer in the potato business, his family is well established in the mint industry. His grandfather, Jim St. Hilaire, started JSH Farms, which is now owned by Howard’s father and six uncles. The farm grows mint, dill and wheat. Three of the brothers manage the main farm in the Yakima Valley, while the other four brothers take care of a second farm in Hermiston, Oregon. As the next generation, including Howard, began returning to the farm in recent years, the family was in a position to expand operations. At the same time, two longtime potato producers, 10

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May/June 2015

Jody and Steve Bouchey, were looking for someone to buy their business. The Bouchey brothers approached JSH Farms, and JSH Farms took ownership of Bouchey Potatoes last summer. Howard, his brother-in-law Jeff Dahl, and their uncle Phil St. Hilaire are managing the farm’s potato production. They have about 350 acres planted in potatoes – mostly reds and yellows, along with some fingerlings – all for the fresh market. Continuing to operate under the name Bouchey Potatoes, the company packs its own potatoes and ships all over the U.S. and Canada. The growers have plans to increase potato production to 500 acres within a few years. A new packing line for fingerlings has been installed to accommodate a larger crop. Plans also include increasing the farm’s focus on organic farming. Currently, about 60 percent of the farm’s potatoes are grown organically. “It’s the market that works for us,” Howard says of organics. “There’s always going to be a demand for conventional. But with our quality, it makes sense to go more in the organic direction, and you get better prices if you can grow them right.” This year, the farm’s organic potato plantings include 40 acres of russets being grown in Hermiston, an area where organic ground is more readily

available, Howard notes.

Learning a New Crop Buying Bouchey Potatoes has helped JSH Farms diversify, Howard says, but it has also brought the challenge of learning to farm a new crop. “You can learn individual tasks such as planting and fertilizing, but getting the big picture takes time. You have to think about so much,” Howard relates, mentioning crop rotation and harvest timelines. “I remember last year I was clueless as to what we were doing. It’s nice to see that we are learning and getting the hang of things.” The Boucheys have been an immense help in showing Howard the ropes. The Boucheys are continuing to work on the farm to ensure the transition is a smooth one for the new owners and their customers. Jody Bouchey is staying on board for five years, and Steve Bouchey will stay for a year or two. “We didn’t want to just buy the farm ground. We’re buying the Bouchey Potatoes name, and we’re buying their knowledge, experience and relationships,” Howard explains. “The Boucheys are very particular about how they grow potatoes. They had a good thing going with their customers. You talk to all the buyers, and we’re known for quality. They know how to do it.

They’ve been doing it right.” “The Boucheys are so focused on quality,” Dahl agrees. “That’s part of why we picked them instead of some other piece of land just because of how they operate this business - from being particular about financial decisions to taking care of their equipment and growing their product.” Continuing to deliver the quality potatoes to which Bouchey Potatoes buyers are accustomed comes back to attention to detail, Howard and Dahl say. The growers are discovering that potatoes are far less forgiving than the mint and dill crops they are used to growing. “There’s so much more that goes into growing potatoes. If we just wanted to grow potatoes and quality wasn’t an issue, it wouldn’t be as hard,” Howard says. “But because the Bouchey name is so intertwined with quality, you have to stay on top of the little details to make sure you don’t sacrifice quality. If you let little things go, eventually it’s a completely different product.” Mint is less sensitive to things like weather and harvest dates, Howard says, whereas potatoes require precisely timed chemical applications, and water is especially crucial. In a water-short year like 2015 is shaping up to be in the Yakima Valley, potatoes will take priority.

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Coming Home Despite the challenges in learning to grow potatoes, Howard is thankful for the opportunity to farm for a living. Prior to returning to JSH Farms in 2008, he played football at the University of Idaho, followed by his stint in the NFL and a year of arena football, and then traveled to Africa on a mission trip. “Being able to leave the farm, travel the world and chase your idea of what happiness is, you realize this is a good place to live, and this is a nice profession. It’s not as sexy as some other jobs are, but it gives you some flexibility with family,” Howard reflects. “I never thought I’d be back here. I never wanted to farm. But God had a different plan, I guess.” He continues, “When you feel like it’s your choice to come back, it changes your perspective. You see that this is a good profession. You’re doing something honest. You’re doing something real. And it’s hard work, but it’s rewarding.”

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Workers at Bouchey Potatoes cut seed during planting this March.

In the News

InnateTM Potatoes Receive FDA Stamp of Approval The J.R. Simplot Company has completed a voluntary food and feed safety consultation with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which concluded that the company’s genetically modified Innate potatoes are as safe and nutritious as conventional potatoes. Innate potatoes have been modified to have several advantages including reduced susceptibility to blackspot bruise and reduced production of acrylamide formed by baking or frying. The potatoes are expected to be available in limited quantities beginning this year. Meanwhile, research from an Iowa State University economist found that consumers are willing to spend more for genetically modified potato products that reduce the formation of acrylamide than for conventional potatoes. Participants in a study were willing to pay $1.78 more for a five-pound bag of potatoes and an extra $1.33 for a package of frozen French fries after receiving information about the hazards associated with acrylamide exposure and the ability of biotechnology to dramatically reduce acrylamide in potato products.

WSPC Welcomes Director of Industry Outreach The Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC) has hired Matthew Blua as its new director of industry outreach. Blua, an entomologist, will provide technical advice and assistance to the industry in regard to pest and plant diagnostics, food safety and sustainability programs. He will oversee WSPC-funded research projects and coordinate efforts with other research institutions. Blua has spent most of his career in California, most recently at the California Avocado Commission.

Krabill Leaves NPC, Joins USPB Ryan J. Krabill has joined the United States Potato Board (USPB) staff in the newly-created position of director of research and analysis. The job entails working with potato researchers across

the country to help advance potato research, as well as working to secure additional funding for potato research initiatives. A native of Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Krabill most recently worked for the National Potato Council (NPC) as senior director of legislative and regulatory affairs.

New Potato Variety from Maine The Caribou Russet, described as having “high yields, mid-season maturity and moderate common scab resistance,” is the newest potato variety developed by the University of Maine and licensed by the Maine Potato Board. The white-fleshed variety had yields for U.S. Grade 1 potatoes that averaged 130 percent of Russet Burbank potatoes and 122 percent of Russet Norkotah potatoes in side-by-side trials.

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May/June

Potato Country

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Market Report

Strong Dollar Creates Headwin

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May/June 2015

they move production between the two countries in order to minimize costs and maximize profits. The changes are not instantaneous, but when new production capacity is needed, it is built in the country with the lowest cost structure. When the industry has excess capacity, plants in the country with the favorable exchange rate tend to run at capacity, while facilities in the other country run at reduced rates. When the industry needs to close plants, the closures usually occur in the country with the stronger currency. Currency impacts on French fry trade tend to occur over long time periods. A review of frozen potato product trade since 1990 highlights the challenges that the North American French fry industry may face in the coming years. In the accompanying chart, we plot net frozen potato trade (exports – imports) against the Trade Weighted Dollar Index (TWDI). Note that net frozen product exports peaked in 1995, at 464 million pounds, the same year that the TWDI fell to its lowest level on record before 2006. Fryers already had started to

build new production capacity in Canada, at that time, to diversify supply sources, but the rapid advance of the U.S. dollar accelerated that process. The TWDI climbed to a peak of 107.8 in 2001. By that time, the U.S. was importing 207 million pounds more frozen product than it was exporting. Even as the dollar began to decline, momentum and a continuing, though narrowing, competitive advantage allowed net imports of frozen product to continue growing through 2004, when they peaked at 729 million pounds. As the TWDI continued to fall, the trend for frozen potato trade reversed, but it took until 2008 for exports to once again exceed imports. Exports continued to climb, reaching a high of 394 million pounds in 2012. The TWDI reached a low in 2011. Though the value of the dollar advanced gradually from 2012 to 2014, the lack of growth in net export trade during that period probably had more to do with domestic supply issues and the aggressive expansion of Belgian French fry plants than with the value of the dollar. A West Coast port labor dispute slowed

600

Net Trade

120

Trade Weighted Dollar

400

110

200

100

0

90

-200

80

-400

70

-600 -800

60

90

92

94

96

98

00

02

04

Calendar Year

06

08

10

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Trade Weighted Dollar: March 1973 = 100

Net Frozen Potato Product Trade

Million Lbs

W

hat impact will the recent strength in the U.S. dollar have on demand for French fries? In March, the Trade Weighted Dollar Index (March 1973 = 100) averaged 91.5, its highest level since September 2003. While currency exchange rate forecasts are notorious for their inaccuracy, current evidence suggests that the strength in the dollar could persist for an extended period of time, with further strengthening possible. Two factors work together to determine currency exchange rates: 1) the relative rate of inflation between countries; and 2) relative interest rates. Currently, inflation is tame in most of the world’s major economies. Central bankers appear to be more afraid of deflation than they are of inflation. However, U.S. interest rate policy is diverging from policies in most other parts of the world. Most other countries are attempting to stimulate economic growth by driving interest rates into negative territory, while the Federal Reserve has ended its “quantitative easing” program, and is debating when to start raising interest rates. This divergence is a recipe for continued strengthening of the U.S. dollar. That strength creates headwinds for U.S. exports, including exports of French fries. A strong dollar raises prices for U.S. exports, in foreign currency terms. It also reduces prices for imports, to the extent that production costs in the exporting countries are not dollar denominated. Fryers will have to contend with stiff competition in the global market. They also may face increased competition from European product imported into the U.S. The North American processing industry is integrated. All of the major fryers own processing plants in both the U.S. and Canada. While the fryers do all that they can to protect their investments in both countries, historical experience shows that

nds for French Fry Exports By Bruce Huffaker, Publisher North American Potato Market News

export movement during the last half of 2014 through February 2015. While that was a temporary phenomenon, the impact of which might be reversed in 2015, it certainly did nothing for the country’s reputation as a reliable supplier. It might make it easier for importers to justify a switch to cheaper European product. The last extended strong dollar episode did tremendous damage to the U.S. potato industry. Though the growth in net frozen product trade since 2004 has added 18 million to 20 million cwt to fryers’ annual raw product needs, compared with what they would have been had net imports remained where they were in 2004, net exports have yet to surpass the 1995 peak. Had U.S. exports continued to match the growth rate of global French fry demand from 1996 through 2014, fryers would need 33 million to 39 million cwt more potatoes per year now than they currently are using. Circumstances now are somewhat different than they were in 1995. Canada does have excess production capacity, which is likely to be geared up if currency exchange rates remain unchanged, or if the value of the dollar continues to climb. However, there may not be as many optimal locations for new Canadian French fry plants as there were in 1995. On the other hand, Belgian fryers continue to build new capacity at a furious pace. The high value of the dollar, combined with low ocean freight rates makes European product competitive with U.S. French fries in East Coast markets. The extent to which imports will displace U.S. consumption of domestic product is

uncertain – European product may simply crowd U.S. product out of foreign markets. Should the value of the dollar reverse in the near future, the damage caused by the strong dollar may be limited. However, growers should be aware of the headwinds facing the frozen processing industry, and plan accordingly. How can growers deal with the impact of a strong U.S. dollar? Foreign exchange rates are out of their hands. However, given the current environment, it is crucial that they match production as close to contract volumes as possible, even when fryers cut back on contracts to an extent that appears to be impractical. In this environment, fryers are more likely to overestimate their usage requirements than to underestimate them. In addition, growers need to minimize their production costs in order to remain as competitive as possible in the global market. Finally, growers must recognize that if net

export movement stabilizes, or falls below current levels, U.S. potato acreage will need to be reduced, either through extended crop rotations or by retiring marginal ground from production. Potato yields continue to trend higher, while domestic demand for potatoes and potato products continues to decline.

Sources: Trade Data - Global Trade Information Services, Trade Weighted Dollar Index - Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System

Editor’s Note: To contact Mr. Huffaker, or to subscribe to North American Potato Market News (published 48 times per year), write or call: PO Box 135, Shelley, ID 83274; telephone (208) 525-8397; fax (208) 525-8569; or e-mail [email protected].

May/June

Potato Country

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Know Your Potato Diseases

Disease Identification Quiz Dr. Jeff Miller

These newly emerged plants do not appear normal. What is happening to these plants so early in the season to cause these problems? A.

Photos A and B: Upon close examination of the plant in Photo A, you can see that the veins are light yellow instead of a darker green. The lower leaves appear to be dying. The field where this photo was taken shows strips where almost all the plants in two to three rows are showing the same thing (Photo B). This seems too early to be Verticillium wilt. Additionally, why would the symptoms occur down the row? The affected strips appear every 14 rows in the field.

B.

Photo C: This photo was taken in another field. The leaves on some plants were curled and severely distorted. Is this caused by a seed-borne virus?

C.

Photo D: This photo was taken later in the season. A grower saw some early blight in the lower canopy and decided to make a foliar fungicide application. However, shortly after the application, the blight appeared to get worse. Leaf spots appeared all over the canopy, especially on top. The grower suspected brown leaf spot (alternata blight). He took one leaf to a lab and Alternaria alternata spores were found on the leaf. Did the application cause brown leaf spot to flare?

D.

Dr. Jeff Miller, a plant pathologist, is the president and CEO of Miller Research, Rupert, Idaho. He can be contacted by phone: (208) 5315124; cell: (208) 431-4420; email: [email protected]

16

Potato Country

May/June 2015

ANSWERS, PAGE 23

1990 Ace 6 row

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Calendar June 10-13 United Fresh 2015, McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, Ill. Visit www. unitedfresh.org.

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2nd Annual Ag World Golf Classic, Canyon Lakes Golf Course, Kennewick, Wash. Visit www.agworldgolf.com.

This list is only partial. Call for more info or check our website

OSU Potato Field Day, OSU HAREC, 2121 S. 1st St., Hermiston, Ore. Contact Annette Teraberry, (541) 567-8321.

June 25 WSU Potato Field Day, WSU Othello Research Unit, Othello, Wash. Contact Mark Pavek, (509) 335-6861 or [email protected].

July 8-10 National Potato Council Summer Meeting, Kalispell, Mont. Contact Hollee Alexander, holleea@nationalpotatocouncil. org.

July 19-23 Potato Association of America Annual Meeting, Portland, Maine. Visit www. potatoassociation.org.

July 28–30 9th International World Potato Congress, Yanqing County, Beijing City, China. Visit www.2015bjwpc.com/potato_en/index.php.

Oct. 23-25 PMA Fresh Summit Convention and Expo, Atlanta, Ga. Visit www.freshsummit. com.

Editor’s Note: To have your event listed, please email the editor, Denise Keller, at [email protected]. Please send your information 90 days in advance.

375

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Warehouse

Ernst 48" sizer Mayo Water Recycler Flat conveyors different dimensions AG-Pak Bagger AP-60

Pilers

June 24

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Even flow

2012 Logan Scale 36" x 17' 3ph 2000 Spudnik 36" x 40' tip dwn 3ph 1998 Spudnik 1230, 30"x40' 3ph 1998 Spudnik 36" x 20' side shift 3ph 1995 Double L 809 30" x 38' 3ph 1992 Spudnik 1200 30"x40' 3ph 1991 Milestone 30" x 30' 3ph 1994 Doubel L 808, 30" x 25', Davis 36" x 20' chain hydr 1ph

Scoopers

1996 Spudnik 150, 30" belt chain 3ph 1974 Spudnik 100, 24" 1ph Spudnik 24" 3ph

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Clod Hoppers

2012 Harriston 4240, 3ph 2011 Harriston 4 drum 200, 3ph 2008 Harriston 240 finger table 3ph 2003 Harriston 240 ellis table 1ph 2010 Harriston 3 drum 240, 3 drum, 3ph 2001 Harriston 160/60" finger table, 3ph 1995 Harriston 200/80" finger table, 3ph

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May/June

Potato Country

17

United States Potato Board

U.S. Frozen Potato Expor Part I of a Two-Part Series

T

he export of frozen potato products has been an engine of growth for the U.S. potato industry for the past 20 years. Over that timeframe, the volume of U.S. exports has grown. At 938,128 metric tons (MT) in 2013, exports now account for approximately 25 percent of U.S. frozen potato sales. The value of these exports was $1,067,601,740 ($1.068 billion), and the fresh weight equivalent in raw potatoes exported was 1,594,818 MT (35,159,718 cwt). This continued growth in exports has occurred even as worldwide production and competition has expanded significantly. Exports from the major producers of Argentina, Australia, Canada, China, EU28 (exports are only extra-EU and do not include trade within the Union), New Zealand and the U.S. grew by 31 percent over the past five years, while U.S. exports increased by 42 percent. U.S. share of total exports increased from 29 percent in 2009-10 to 31 percent in 2013-14.

USPB Programs The United States Potato Board (USPB) has conducted international marketing programs for U.S. frozen potato products for over 30 years. These programs utilize a combination of USPB funds and international market development funding from USDA. USPB currently conducts programs in the target markets of Mexico, Central America, Japan, China, South Korea, the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam, and is initiating efforts in Cambodia and Myanmar. The programs can be divided into three basic areas: increasing demand for frozen potato products, protecting U.S. market share and increasing market access. Demand-increasing efforts are focused on the introduction of new products, entry into new channels and the expansion and use of established products in existing channels. The U.S. frozen processing industry is constantly developing new and innovative products, and in recent years, has been more focused on developing products for international markets. The USPB is able to make all segments of the foodservice sectors in the target markets aware of these products through seminars, trade shows and merchandising efforts. New channels targeted by the USPB are food manufacturing, restaurants serving local as opposed to westernstyle cuisine, convenience stores, retail, bakeries and mass catering to name a few. Very often, the most growth in sales comes from working with restaurants that are serving shoestring fries to add an additional fry item or other side dish made from frozen mashed or other non-fried frozen potato products. There are many ways to serve U.S. frozen potato products, and by working with chefs in these markets, a whole new realm of possibilities opens up. Competition in international frozen potato product sales is extremely 18

Potato Country

May/June 2015

intense and made even more so by most processors producing product in multiple countries. However, the U.S. still produces the very best products, though not at the lowest price. By proving how higher-quality U.S. products are actually more profitable for restaurants through the “Why Buy US” program, the USPB has been able to protect and expand U.S. market share. The USPB frozen program also offers a number of valueadded services which restaurants, importers and distributors can only take advantage of if they buy 100 percent U.S. These services include: joint promotional support, storage, handling and preparation training for restaurant and distributor staff, chef ideation seminars and reverse trade missions (RTMs) to the U.S. The value of these services has created many customers who are extremely loyal to U.S. products. Improved access for U.S. frozen potato products comes in many forms from the reduction of tariffs and duties through trade agreements, to the elimination or reduction of unnecessary import requirements and establishment of global maximum residue levels consistent with U.S. levels. The USPB works hand-in-hand with the National Potato Council (NPC) on all potato market access efforts and, specifically, through the American Potato Trade Alliance (APTA) on market access issues for processed products. The USPB also works very closely with state potato grower organizations on market access and market development work. Assistance of the state organizations in APTA and with RTMs is invaluable and really extends the USPB and NPC efforts. In order to increase the effectiveness of the USPB’s programs, we stay in close contact with U.S. processors and their in-country representatives. While broad representation and fairness are paramount, cooperation and coordination with processors are keys to success.

Worldwide Frozen Potato Production Experts in Europe estimate the total global volume of frozen fry production is now 10,728,000 MT, up from 8.5 million MT just two years ago. The production is estimated in Table 1. Region Volume – Metric Tons North America 3,758,000 South & Central America 517,000 Western Europe 3,881,000 Central and Eastern Europe 294,000 Middle East 591,000 Australia and New Zealand 548,000 China 276,000 Asia (exe. China) 36,000 Indian Sub-Continent 618,000 Africa 209,000 Total 10,728,000 Table 1. Total global volume of frozen fry production.

% Share 35% 4.8% 36.2% 2.8% 5.5% 5.1% 2.6% 0.3% 5.8% 1.9% 100%

rts: A Success Story By John Toaspern, USPB Chief Marketing Officer

In general, shifts in processing over the past two years can be summarized as follows: the United States, European Union (EU) and New Zealand are all expanding production volumes due to export opportunities, while China and India are expanding rapidly to meet domestic demand. More specifically, the regions can be summarized as follows. North America – U.S. production is rising, but only due to increased exports, while production in Canada is flattening out due to reduced demand in the U.S. and loss of sales in other export markets. Western Europe – Overall, production is steadily increasing, but it’s more complex in different regions. In the U.K., production is steady with imports accounting for a large share of the market. Production in the Netherlands, and particularly Belgium, is rising due to exports both in the EU and externally. Their home markets are fine but very small. Both France and Germany are slowly growing with some regional exports, along with increased consumption domestically. Production in the rest of Western Europe is insignificant with most demand met by imports from the previously listed countries. Region Volume – Metric Tons % Share Eastern is the major producer and North America and Central Europe – Poland 3,758,000 35% South & Central America 517,000 4.8% exporter to the region, particularly to Russia. Russia is a strong import Western Europe 3,881,000 36.2% marketandwith limited and very poor quality, Central Eastern Europedomestic production294,000 2.8% though Middle East 591,000 5.5% there have been suggestions about expanding this sector. Australia and New Zealand 548,000 5.1%

at $760 million, followed by Japan at $423 million, Brazil at $298 million, Saudi Arabia at $170 million and Mexico at $139 million. It is interesting to note how all remaining markets, after the top 15, were valued at $689 million, which would place them number two on the list. Figure 1 lists the top 15 markets with their major suppliers. As you can see, the U.S. is the primary supplier to Japan, Mexico, China, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Canada.

Editor’s Note: This article is Part I in a two-part series. Part II will discuss USPB target markets, current problems and concerns, and future prospects.

China 276,000 2.6% Asia (exe. China) 36,000 0.3% Indian Sub-Continent 618,000 5.8% Exports from the seven major producers were valued at1.9% $3,319 milAfrica 209,000 Total 10,728,000 100% lion in 2013-14. The largest export market was actually the United States Table 1. Total global volume of frozen fry production.

World Frozen Potato Market

Figure 1. The top 15 markets with their major suppliers.

May/June

Potato Country

19

In the Market

BioSafe Introduces Sprout Treatment BioSafe Systems has rolled out a new sprout treatment product for the 2015 potato storage season. ARRET Sprout Treatment provides potato growers with a new tool to enhance quality and storage life of potatoes, in turn increasing yield and bottom line, according to the company. ARRET has been approved by the U.S. EPA for fresh-pack line treatments, as well as fogging treatment applications. For instorage potatoes, ARRET can be applied by any type of thermal fogger whenever potatoes are peeping, preventing further sprouting. Its fatty acid chemistry is made up of food-safe ingredients and has no use restrictions. ARRET can also stop sprouts in their tracks on fresh-market potatoes. ARRET can be dispersed in water and should be applied as a low-volume spray bar application when potatoes are being prepped for packaging. The chemistry is said to utilize a green and sustainable fatty acid formulation that burns down sprouts on contact. For more information, contact Mark Milenski at mmilenski@biosafesystems. com or (970) 396-8825.

the root zone. TerraGrow can be applied through irrigation systems to reduce transplant shock and improve nutrient availability. For more information, contact BioSafe at (888) 273-3088.

Bayer CropScience Announces Product Changes Bayer CropScience is transitioning new foliar and soil uses from Serenade Soil to Serenade ASO on its supplemental label. Serenade ASO is used to control black rot/black crown rot, bacterial leaf blight, downy mildew, powdery mildew and gray mold. It also suppresses white mold, aerial stem rot, early blight and late blight.   In addition, the company has changed the name of its Serenade Optimum fungicide to Serenade Opti. Serenade Opti is meant to control black rot/black crown rot, bacterial leaf spot and gray mold and suppress white mold and aerial stem rot.

with a touch of a button.  Visit www.myfieldnet.com/pivotcontrol.

NNZ Adds Warehouse in New Mexico NNZ, a nationwide distributor of produce packaging, has acquired J&J Supply in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Having a local warehouse stocked with common items used in the potato industry will provide customers in the New Mexico, Colorado and Arizona area with added convenience and cost savings, according to the company. NNZ offers a broad portfolio of packaging materials for potatoes including bags, films and trays. Visit www.nnzusa.com.

Potandon Produce Selling Organic Spuds Under New Brand Name

Lindsay Corporation Unveils Pivot Control

Soil Inoculant Added to BioSafe Lineup BioSafe Systems has added TerraGrow, a beneficial soil inoculant, to its soil treatment program. TerraGrow is a blend of beneficial bacterial and fungal spores and nutrients designed to promote healthier soil and crops. The formulation restores biological activity after treatments with fungicides designed for soil treatment, like TerraClean 5.0, according to the company. TerraGrow improves plant stress tolerance and vigor while quickly reestablishing beneficial bacteria and fungi populations in and around 20

Potato Country

May/June 2015

Lindsay Corporation, maker of Zimmatic irrigation systems, has a new product on the market to “make any pivot high-tech with a simple retrofit.” FieldNET® Pivot Control upgrades almost any brand pivot to full remote irrigation control and monitoring capabilities. The unit mounts at the pivot point and combines with GPS at the end of the pivot for increased precision and flexibility. Pivot Control comes with 360-sector variable rate irrigation (VRI), and custom prescriptions can be uploaded to FieldNET

The first potato line launched under the Potandon Produce™ brand name is now available. Potandon Produce adds this newest brand to its current lineup, which includes the Green Giant™, Klondike Brands™ and Sunfresh® labels. For now, the Potandon Produce™ brand will be used to market organic potatoes. Three-pound poly bags of red, russet and yellow organic potatoes will be distributed from locations in Washington, Wisconsin, Ohio and Massachusetts. Sales will be handled from the Potandon Produce headquarters in Idaho Falls, Idaho.

Potato Growers of Washington

Extreme Caution Urged in Avoiding CrossContamination with GM Potato Varieties

T

he recent United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) approval of Simplot’s Innate™ potato is good news for some segments of the potato industry, but may increase risks for others. First, let me be clear. I support and encourage bio-developed potato varieties and look forward to the evolution they will bring to our industry. However, my opinion means very little in this segment. The opinions that really count are those of our customers and consumers. Even though Innate™ potatoes have been around for a few years now, the chances of the potatoes being comingled with standard varieties had been very slim. That is not so today. With the recent USDA approval and a significant increase in acreage forecasted for the next few years, that risk increases many fold. That is why process growers will see their contracts contain even stricter language for barriers to prevent any contamination as well as tougher penalties should contamination occur. I have heard growers note that these barriers are unnecessary. Since the variety has been approved, they do not understand the repercussions of possible contamination, should it occur. But the bread and butter of the process industry in the Columbia Basin and our future growth are in exports – and many countries are not yet ready to accept bio-engineered potatoes. Further, there are some major domestic customers, as well, who have come out and said they will not accept these potatoes. Since in any business the “customer is always right,” we, as a frozen potato industry, must do all we can to be sure that their concerns are recognized and honored. Therefore, I strongly encourage all growers

to review the procedures provided by their processors concerning rotations, field choices, etc. to be sure that they are in compliance. Looking ahead, as these potatoes do gain wider acceptance in the marketplace, we all will need to be cognizant of the fact that the chances of cross-contamination occurring will continue to increase. It will be important to watch and verify that all trucks that have hauled Innate™ potatoes be thoroughly inspected for any tubers or parts of tubers remaining to ensure they are not unknowingly off-loaded at another site. Seed cutters are another point of concern. Specific efforts will need to be made to verify that 100 percent of the tubers from an Innate™ lot have been removed before any traditional varieties are handled. The same care will need to be taken as to where and how seed lots are staged prior to cutting. These are only a couple of actions that will need to be taken to ensure that Innate™ potatoes do not make their way into any of our processing plants that produce product for markets that will not accept them. If even one French fry from an Innate™ potato is found in

By Dale Lathim Potato Growers of Washington

a market that does not want them, the impact on the entire industry could be devastating. Innate™ potatoes are a magnificent development, and I look forward to future world-wide acceptance. With that said, please do yourself and the industry a huge favor by taking seriously the need to prevent any future cross-contamination between Innate™ and traditionally bred potato varieties.

May/June

Potato Country

21

PVY Resistance: A Moving Target By Denise Keller, Editor

W

hile the strain of Potato virus Y (PVY) that historically has been the most common is becoming less prevalent each year, other strains – including some that not only reduce yield, but also affect tuber quality – are trending upward. During a presentation at the Washington-Oregon Potato Conference held Alex Karasev, a plant virologist with Jan. 27-29 in Kennewick, the University of Idaho, is studying Washington, Alex Karasev, the shift in Potato virus Y strains that has been taking place in U.S. potato a plant virologist with the fields in recent years. University of Idaho, spoke about what might be causing this shift and what it means for potato breeders and producers.

Shifting Strain Composition Researchers are seeing dramatic changes in the strain composition of PVY in U.S. potato fields. Of the half dozen or so strains currently in the U.S., PVYO used to be predominant just a few years ago, but has been precipitously dropping each year, Karasev reported. In 2011, PVYO accounted for more than 60 NEW/USED WALK-IN COOLER-FREEZER REFRIGERATION SYSTEMS HUGE Inventory-All Sizes Buy  Sell  Nationwide  AMERICAN WHOLESALE CO. TOLL FREE 877-220-8882 www.awrco.com  [email protected]

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Potato Country

May/June 2015

percent of PVY-positive potato plants tested at Washington State University’s annual seed lot trial; last year it made up only 10 percent. Meanwhile, the incidence of another strain, PVYWilga, has increased from 30 percent in 2011 to more than 60 percent last year. Of particular concern, is the spread of certain other strains of PVY that induce potato tuber necrotic ringspot disease (PTNRD), which affects tuber quality and can make tubers unmarketable. The incidence of one such strain, NE-11, has increased from 1 percent in 2011 to 8 percent in 2014. Karasev also spoke about this topic at the Idaho Potato Conference, sharing data from the state’s 2015 winter growout. The trend in Idaho is similar to what is being seen in Washington, he said, but the numbers are even more convincing. “We do not quite understand why this is happening. We have our own hypothesis that it’s because of the changes in potato cultivars that are grown in the Columbia Basin,” Karasev explained. “Every single breeding program had been selecting varieties based on resistance to PVYO because that was their main virus challenge.” He continued, “But now this strain is disappearing, and maybe the cultivars being released will not be resistant against the other strains. That’s the hypothesis that we have. It’s possible that the reason PVYO is disappearing is precisely because the breeding and selection was so effective.” Others theorize that aphid vectors transmit certain strains better than other strains or that the movement of certain strains to tubers from the foliage occurs faster and more efficiently. But there is no evidence to support these theories, according to Karasev. “We believe our hypothesis is the most plausible at the moment,” he said, adding that the hypothesis needs to be tested.

Cultivar Selection If NE-11 and PVYNTN, the necrotic strains of PVY, become more prevalent, problems can be expected, Karasev cautioned. As happened in Europe, the spread of necrotic strains could affect cultivar selection or even displace certain varieties. Potentially, growers may need to avoid cultivars that are susceptible to PTNRD, he said, citing the popular Yukon Gold as a variety highly susceptible to display necrotic tuber symptoms if infected by these strains of PVY. Karasev emphasized that the industry needs to monitor the strain composition of PVY that is circulating. “This is an issue that requires attention. You can’t just leave it to its own devices and five years down the road wonder what just happened. Growers need to watch this dynamic of how the proportion of strains is changing,” he advised. “The situation may not be that stable. We saw the predominant strain change from PVYO to Wilga, but that may change to something else.” Karasev recommended that potato breeders screen breed-

ing materials against not only PVYO, which was dominant in the field 10 years ago, but also against strains of PVY such as Wilga that are prevalent now. In ongoing research, Karasev is studying the reactions of various cultivars to different strains of PVY to determine if the cultivars have resistance to particular strains. He has found that cultivars being screened do seem to display much better resistance against PVYO and the least resistance to the Wilga strain, which has fueled his hypothesis for the shift in strain composition. However, fortunately, some cultivars have displayed very clear resistance to the Wilga strain. For example, Yukon Gem has shown good resistance against a broad range of PVY strains and, thus, may be a good source of resistance genes for breeding new varieties.

This tuber is affected with PVYNTN, a strain of Potato virus Y that induces potato tuber necrotic ringspot disease. Photo courtesy Alex Karasev, University of Idaho

Know Your Insects Answers (from page 8) Photo C is different from the rest; it shows two aphids that have parasitic mites attached to them. The other photos all belong together because they have flower flies (also known as syrphid flies) in them. Flower fly larvae are aggressive aphid predators. Photo A shows a flower fly adult; photo B has a flower fly egg near the bottom just left of center with an aphid’s foot on it; and photo D shows a flower fly larva. Flower flies are very common in the spring, and their eggs and larvae are often seen with aphid colonies just getting started on trees and shrubs.

Know Your Potato Disease Answers (from page 16) Photos A and B: This is not Verticillium wilt, but rather herbicide damage caused by metribuzin. The pattern in the field pointed to a problem with the herbicide application. An examination of the sprayer showed that one end of the spray boom was applying twice the labeled rate. The applicator thought he was using more product than he should have, but didn’t say anything at the time. This over-application of herbicide caused damage to the newly emerging plants. Photo C: These symptoms were not caused by a virus. The curled, distorted leaf symptom (fiddleneck) is caused by a phenoxy herbicide. This could be caused by current season drift, residual in the soil or residual in the seed. Photo D: The laboratory did some additional evaluation. The surface of the leaf was sterilized, and then infected tissue was placed on a growth medium to allow the Alternaria to grow. However, no Alternaria grew on the growth medium. Further examination revealed that four different products (a fungicide, two fertilizers and an adjuvant) were mixed together for the application. Each product alone (or the combination of two) had been used previously without any problem. The pattern of spots on the leaves indicated that the four-way combination caused leaf burning. So why were Alternaria alternata spores found on the leaves? While Alternaria alternata can cause lesions on potato leaves, it can also be found on perfectly healthy leaves. Since Alternaria did not grow after the leaf surface was cleaned off, the Alternaria spores simply could have been on the lesions by coincidence. While Alternaria alternata is known to cause disease, it is also possible for the fungus to infect damaged tissue, thus being found as a secondary invader, and not the cause of the lesion. May/June

Potato Country

23

IR ELTIX R

A T O IS N FOR

TM

EATMEN T

. T H POOR EYESIG

BUT IT GOES A LONG WAY IN PREVENTING BLIGHT.

Uniquely formulated to protect potatoes. Elixir isn’t the tonic for what ails you. Elixir is a dry flowable, multi-site, protectant fungicide specifically designed for your potato crop. When applied at the beginning of your disease management program, Elixir controls both early and late blight. With one easy per acre use rate, Elixir can be applied up to ten times per growing season. Elixir fungicide, an effective and economical option for potato protection with very low risk of building resistance. To learn more, contact your UPI representative.

Doing Things Better.

Patent pending. Always read and follow label directions and precautions. Elixir and UPI logo are trademarks of United Phosphorus, Inc. ©April, 2015. UPI, 630 Freedom Business Center, King of Prussia, PA 19406. www.upi-usa.com.