July 2025 Badger Common'Tater

$28/year | $2.50/copy | Volume 77 No. 07 | JUly 2025

THE VOICE OF WISCONSIN'S POTATO & VEGETABLE INDUSTRY

CROP PROTECTION ISSUE

INTERVIEW:

RALPH FREDERICK

AMVAC Chemical Corp.

MOTORS & CONTROLS BUILDS Potato Line Control Systems ESSENTIAL OILS COMBAT Root-Knot Nematodes USE CROP NUTRITION To Maximize Yield WHY STRIP-TILL SOIL Fumigation Matters AMVAC Metam Specialist Ralph Frederick stands in a potato research field at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station (HARS), in Hancock, Wisconsin.

AMVAC is a decades-long supporter of HARS.

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Suit Up for Storage: Protect potato quality and your return on investment YaraLiva calcium nitrate products are the best in-season fertilizer products for your potatoes. With completely soluble calcium and potato-preferred nitrate nitrogen, YaraLiva products guarantee these critical nutrients are quickly and efficiently available to help potatoes thrive. YaraLiva’s soluble calcium protects potatoes from abiotic stress like heat, drought, salinity and sodicity, biotic stress such as pink rot and other bacterial and fungal infections, and physiological disorders like hollow heart, internal brown spot and bruise. Nitrate nitrogen is fast-acting and predictable to ensure there are no late-season flare-ups of unwanted nitrogen that can occur with urea and other ammonium forms. Across multiple trials, Yara’s TopPotato program featuring YaraLiva has produced an average return on investment of $139/acre over the grower standard, up to an 11% increase in nitrogen use efficiency, and a 24% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per acre.

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On the Cover: AMVAC Metam Specialist Ralph Frederick stands in

a potato research field at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station (HARS), in Hancock, Wisconsin, where he’s trialing the company’s Rejuvenate plant growth regulator to reduce weak, excessive stems in potatoes, potentially reducing fertilizer use while maintaining yield. AMVAC is a decades-long supporter of HARS.

8 BADGER COMMON’TATER INTERVIEW:

Ralph Frederick says his new role as an AMVAC Metam specialist in the U.S. and Canada is an exciting one. “It’s fascinating to work with different production areas and see how practices vary around North America,” he notes. Frederick’s primary focus is on supporting growers with their Metam needs through K-PAM® and VAPAM® soil fumigants, with the rig here set up for fumigation. Both products suppress soilborne diseases, nematodes and weeds.

DEPARTMENTS: DISHING IT UP WITH DANA....................... 61 BADGER BEAT.................... 30

26

33

40

PEOPLE

USE CROP NUTRITION TO MAXIMIZE YIELD

MARKETPLACE

Alicia Pavelski of Heartland Farms, Hancock, WI, named Spudwoman of the Year!

Yara Incubator Farm goal is increased productivity

Potato exports explored at CPMA Convention and Trade Show, in Montreal

EYES ON ASSOCIATES......... 36 MARK YOUR CALENDAR...... 6 NEW PRODUCTS................ 58 NOW NEWS....................... 51

FEATURE ARTICLES:

NPC NEWS......................... 43

18 MOTORS AND CONTROLS designs and manufactures potato line control systems

PLANTING IDEAS.................. 6

22 ESSENTIAL OILS CAN control root-knot nematodes through several mechanisms

POTATOES USA NEWS........ 44

48 REDUCED TILLAGE systems becoming a focal point throughout ag in recent years

WPIB FOCUS...................... 42

4

BC�T July

SATURDAY, 8/9/25

Scan to register!

PRESENTED BY:

WITH HELP FROM: Times

Antigo

Supporting AHS Track & Cross Country and other youth organizations.

J.W. Mattek & Sons • Brickner’s • Schroeder’s Gifts • Kretz Lumber Fuller’s Sales & Service • Cornerstone Chiropractic • Bolen Realty

For more information or to register online, visit antigotatertrot.com WPVGA Board of Directors: President: John Bustamante Vice President: Wendy Dykstra Secretary: Josh Knights Treasurer: John Hopfensperger Directors: Mike Baginski, Randy Fleishauer, Brian Lee, J.D. Schroeder & Jeff Suchon Wisconsin Potato Industry Board: President: Heidi Alsum-Randall Vice President: Andy Diercks Secretary: Nicola Carey Treasurer: Keith Wolter Directors: Rod Gumz, Jim Okray, Eric Schroeder, Joe Seis & Tom Wild WPVGA Associate Division Board of Directors: President: Matt Selenske Vice President: Ethan Olson

Secretary: Melissa Heise Treasurer: Paul Salm Directors: Brady Patoka, Scott Scheer, Morgan Smolarek, Sally Suprise & Brandon Taylor Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors: President: Charlie Husnick Vice President: Andy Schroeder Secretary/Treasurer: Markus Shafel Directors: Mitch Mattek & Clover Spacek Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary Board of Directors: President: Heidi Schleicher Vice President: Dakotah Smiley Secretary/Treasurer: Samantha Cypher Directors: Jody Baginski, Misti Kinnison, Jenna Suchon & Erin Meister

Mission Statement of the WPVGA: To advance the interests of WPVGA members through education, information, environmentally sound research, promotion, governmental action and involvement.

Mission Statement of the WPVGA Associate Division: To work in partnership with the WPVGA as product and service providers to promote mutual industry viability by providing technology and information resources.

Badger Common’Tater is published monthly at 700 Fifth Avenue, Antigo, Wisconsin 54409

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Telephone: (715) 623-7683 Mailing address: P.O. Box 327, Antigo, Wisconsin 54409 Or, subscribe free online: http://wisconsinpotatoes.com/blog-news/subscribe/ ADVERTISING: To advertise your service or product in this magazine, call (715) 630-6213, or email: Joe Kertzman: jkertzman@wisconsinpotatoes.com.

The editor welcomes manuscripts and pictures but accepts no responsibility for such material while in our hands.

BC�T July

5

MARK YOUR

Calendar

JULY 9

2025 PUTT-TATO OPEN GOLF OUTING Lake Arrowhead Golf Course Nekoosa, WI

10

HARS FIELD DAY Hancock Agricultural Research Station Hancock, WI

17

ANTIGO FIELD DAY Langlade Agricultural Research Station Antigo, WI

27-31

109th MEETING OF THE PAA —POTATO ASSOCIATON OF AMERICA Madison, WI

31

LELAH STARKS ELITE FOUNDATION SEED POTATO FARM FIELD DAY County Road K Rhinelander, WI

AUGUST 5-7

WISCONSIN FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS Clinton Farms Bear Creek, WI

6-9

POTATOES USA SUMMER MEETING Boston, MA

9

45th ANNUAL ANTIGO TATER TROT Antigo City Park, 8:20 a.m., and Virtual Antigo, WI

SEPTEMBER 6

39TH ANNUAL SPUD BOWL Community Stadium at Goerke Park Stevens Point, WI

OCTOBER 16-18

IFPA GLOBAL PRODUCE & FLORAL SHOW Anaheim Convention Center Anaheim, CA

27-28

WPVGA RESEARCH MEETING Hancock Ag Research Station and virtual, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. daily Hancock, WI

NOVEMBER 9

MADISON MARATHON Capitol Square, 7 a.m.

Madison, WI

JANUARY 2026 6-8

POTATO EXPO 2026 Gaylord Texan Dallas, TX

FEBRUARY 3-5

2026 GROWER ED CONFERENCE & INDUSTRY SHOW Holiday Inn & Convention Center Stevens Point, WI

MAY 16-26

6

NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION SHOW McCormick Place Chicago, IL BC�T July

Planting Ideas I received a few nice emails and heartfelt

comments from potato and vegetable growers regarding the article “Drawn to Farming while Growing Up in Langlade County,” written by Dennis Pecha and featured in the June 2025 issue of the Badger Common’Tater. For the most part, folks liked how Dennis wove personal anecdotes about farming and farmers in Antigo, Wisconsin, together with historical context and an obvious love for the agriculture industry in which he spent his career. Among his career highlights is working behind the counter at Aulik Implement, in Antigo, where he met and befriended many farmers.

The people working in agriculture are what makes it an incredible industry to be a part of, and that includes Kevin Konopacky (shown in the image at right), owner of Motors and Controls, in Plover, who builds what he calls “potato line control systems” for modern grading and packing sheds.

Imagine designing, programming and wiring the system he’s sitting in front of in the image! As Kevin puts it, “I test every wire, flip and try every switch and overload, and test all the software and commands.” He also writes the software and basically builds the control system from the bottom up. Read the related feature “Control Systems in Place” in this issue.

It wasn’t a mere coincidence that AMVAC Metam Specialist Ralph Frederick would be at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station (HARS), in Hancock, for me to take his picture for the front cover— Ralph spends a lot of time at HARS conducting research. AMVAC is also a decades-long supporter of the research station. Enjoy my interview with Ralph as he discusses soil fumigation, biologicals, proven chemistries, GreenSolutions, sustainability solutions for plant and soil health, and precision agriculture.

Congratulations go out to Alicia Pavelski of Heartland Farms, in Hancock, who was named Spudwoman of the Year by Spudman magazine, and whose career and accomplishments are highlighted in the “People” column herein. Reprinted with permission from Spudman, the article traces Alicia’s career from her early days on the farm to her involvement as project manager for the Food + Farm Exploration Center, in Plover, her community connections, public outreach, commitment to sustainability, pursuit of ongoing education, and work on multiple fronts at Heartland Farms, being affectionately referred to as “Farm Mom” by her husband, Jeremie.

Please email me with your thoughts and questions. If you wish to be notified when our free online magazine is available monthly, here is the subscriber link: http://wisconsinpotatoes.com/blognews/subscribe.

Joe Kertzman

Managing Editor jkertzman@wisconsinpotatoes.com

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Interview

RALPH FREDERICK,

Metam specialist, AMVAC Chemical Corp.

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater

NAME: Ralph Frederick TITLE: Metam specialist COMPANY: AMVAC Chemical Corporation LOCATION: Newport Beach, CA HOMETOWN: Duluth, MN YEARS IN PRESENT POSITION: 28 years with AMVAC, 9 months in current position PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Sales rep for Buckman Laboratories and Research Designed for Agriculture, conducting research in southern California and Arizona SCHOOLING: Bachelor of Science degree in Agronomy, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS: WPVGA Associate Division member, and associate member of the Northern Potato Growers Association FAMILY: Wife, Nanette, married for 24 years; daughter, Sophie (23); two stepchildren, Nic (47) and Kristina (43); and seven grandchildren HOBBIES: Traveling with Nanette, fishing with friends and grandkids, mushroom hunting, and gardening 8

BC�T July

Founded in 1969, AMVAC Chemical Corporation has grown from a regional contract manufacturer of agricultural chemicals to developing, manufacturing and marketing products for agricultural use.

Today, AMVAC owns and operates six manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico. Headquartered in the U.S., the company is a solutions provider for global agriculture committed to technology, innovation, and sustainability.

The company focuses on four innovation platforms: proven chemistries, precision agriculture, GreenSolutions, and sustainability solutions for plant and soil health.

AMVAC is especially renowned for soil fumigants and corn insecticides and has most recently had a key focus on biologicals.

Crop protection products include K-PAM® HL™ and VAPAM® HL™ soil fumigants; BLOCKER® fungicide; Mocap® nematicide; AZTEC® insecticide; and SmartBlock® plant growth regulator, among a host of other inputs and applications.

AMVAC expanded its presence into the biological products markets, currently under its umbrella brand GreenSolutions. Biological sales now comprise approximately 10% of total AMVAC sales, and all AMVAC operating businesses have dedicated resources targeting the sales of biological products.

Above: AMVAC Metam Specialist Ralph Frederick checks potato stem counts at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station (HARS) where he’s conducting a study using Rejuvenate, a growth regulator, to reduce weak, excessive stems in potatoes. He theorizes that, if growers can better control stem numbers, they may not need as much fertilizer but would still be able to maintain high yields. AMVAC donates crop and potato storage protection products to HARS annually and has for decades.

Ralph Frederick, currently a Metam specialist based in Duluth, Minnesota, has been with AMVAC for 28 years and is known to many Wisconsin potato and vegetable growers and industry professionals.

Have you always been a Metam (Vapam and K-PAM HL) specialist for the U.S. and Canada, or how has your career progressed? I started as a technical sales rep with territory in the Midwest. Over the years, as AMVAC has grown, my territory and product line that I cover have changed several times, but I’ve always been rooted in the potato and vegetable industry.

My new role as a Metam specialist continued on pg. 10

Above: Soil fumigation rigs, such as the one at top-left, are set up to apply Vapam. They can be configured in many ways and with several types of shanks, discs and points.

BC�T July

9

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 9

for the U.S. and Canada is an exciting one. It’s fascinating to work with different production areas and see how production practices vary around North America.

time with the company. When I was hired on, AMVAC had just purchased the Vapam label from Zeneca, and overnight AMVAC nearly doubled in size.

How has AMVAC progressed during that same time and adjusted to changes in the marketplace? Twentyeight years is a long time, and there have been a lot of changes in my

That can be a challenge when competing in a global market, but we’ve found a way to make it work.

I’ve seen the company grow from about $30 million to over a half-

billion dollars in sales. Much of that growth has taken place as we entered the corn and soybean markets and increased our international presence.

We increased our manufacturing capabilities in the United States from one plant in Los Angeles to now having five manufacturing and formulation facilities in the United States and one in Mexico.

AMVAC Chemical Corporation owns and operates six manufacturing facilities in the United States and Mexico, including these two in Axis, Alabama, and Clackamas, Oregon.

10 BC�T July

As products come and go in the industry, it has been great to have Vapam as a constant quality offering the entire time. Vapam has been around for over 70 years.

I believe you have an agronomy degree—what do you feel your strengths are, particularly in working with potato and vegetable growers?

That’s correct. I received my BS in Agronomy from Colorado State University in Fort Collins. I guess I feel my biggest strength is just listening to the concerns of dealers and growers and hopefully offering a realistic solution to address them.

No two areas are the same and growers use different production practices, so my hope is to bring something valuable to the table that they can use.

As a Metam specialist, I take it you’re focused on helping growers with AMVAC’s soil fumigant products. What pests, diseases and weeds do they control? My primary focus is on supporting growers with their Metam needs through Vapam and K-PAM. Both products suppress soilborne diseases, nematodes and weeds.

Each of these is as significant a threat now as when I first started. Rates and application methods vary across the country, but one thing remains constant and that is the value of Metam in giving growers a solid foundation on which to start their

growing season.

Each region of the country has specific needs, and I enjoy traveling all over North America offering insight on how a grower can best apply Metam to maximize returns.

Is Vapam part of a bigger crop protection program, and if so, what other products do you introduce potato and vegetable growers to in a typical crop year? I consider Vapam and soil fumigation a foundation practice. If diseases, nematodes or weeds are left unchecked, any of them can shorten the life or reduce the potential of a high value crop in a very meaningful way.

Above: Ralph Frederick says he feels that fumigation is a foundation program for many potato and vegetable crops, and biofumigants certainly have a place in any integrated pest management program.

For example, if you have a pest problem in alfalfa or corn, you may face reduced yield and profit.

However, if you have a nematode or disease issue in potatoes, you could potentially face rejection of the entire crop, and a high value crop to be sure.

Once the foundation for a successful crop is established, we also have BLOCKER soil fungicide for suppression of common scab and continued on pg. 12

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BC�T July 11

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 11

Rhizoctonia.

Along with a couple of biological products, iNvigorate® reintroduces soil microbes to farmland and B Sure®, which is an amino acid product, helps the crop through stressful periods. Then, once the potatoes go into storage, SmartBlock can be used to help control sprouts.

Why is fumigation necessary, and how does it affect microbial activity in the soil? This is a terrific question.

In recent years, we are getting a better handle on understanding what is going on with the microbial population of soil after fumigation.

Soil fumigation is necessary, because without it, we know the negative effects of nematode pressure and early die can be significant.

activity permanently reduced, how do you explain such consistent benefits over the decades? The answer is that soil fumigation is simply buying enough time for a crop to be grown successfully before pest populations rebuild.

As for microbial activity, it has long been asserted that fumigation kills everything or sterilizes both pest and microbial activity, but what we’ve found is that it’s for a short time and the recovery of beneficial organisms is near miraculous. This helps explain the yield benefits associated with using Vapam.

Is there maintenance or calibration necessary with fumigation rigs, and are the rigs different from spray rigs? There truly is not a lot of difference between your spray rigs and a fumigation rig. They both have nozzles, and we are trying to apply a product as evenly as possible over a given area.

If the soil were sterilized, or microbial

The difference with the fumigation

rig is that we are applying a product under the soil surface and we haven’t been able to see if we are applying it evenly.

I will be honest. In the past, we would calibrate fumigation rigs to make sure we were putting out the right rate, but we had little ability to make sure we were placing the Vapam in the right spot to optimize the performance of the product.

We now have equipment called the MiniRAE, which is a wireless, handheld photoionization detector that can show us the spray and injection patterns of the different rigs and where exactly the MITC

In the past, Ralph Frederick admits he would calibrate fumigation rigs to make sure he was putting out the correct product rate but had little ability to make sure he was placing the Vapam in the right spot to optimize its performance. AMVAC now has equipment called the MiniRAE, a wireless, handheld photoionization detector that can show the spray and injection patterns of different rigs and where exactly the MITC (methyl isothiocyanate) is moving within the soil profile. Frederick digs a trench in the field after fumigation and pokes some holes in the side of the dirt wall (shown on page 13). He can then use the MiniRAE to measure the amount of MITC in each of those holes. Using MiniRae readings, a heat map (above) shows pre- and post-modification to applications as a guide to more accurately place soil fumigant.

12 BC�T July

(methyl isothiocyanate) is moving within the soil profile. The results are fascinating.

When I first started selling fumigants, I relied on visual cues, such as weed suppression or through the collection of hundreds of samples, to help determine efficacy. We’ve sped this process up dramatically by utilizing a handheld MiniRAE to find inefficient application practices.

We can now adjust the equipment, if needed, to fix any application deficiencies prior to getting into the field and adjust our depth of application to match the pest we are after.

The label offers several ways to apply Vapam safely and efficiently, and we just want people to maximize the performance of their application, however it is made.

Can biofumigants fit into such a program then? I feel fumigation is your foundation program for many potatoes and vegetables, and biofumigants certainly have a place in any integrated pest management program.

Biofumigants can indeed add value in specific situations, but maybe not all, especially if disease pressure is high or the grower is raising Verticillium wilt-susceptible varieties or is in a situation where he doesn’t have the opportunity to grow enough biomass for a biofumigant to have much of an effect.

We’re always working with growers to find areas where the best approach is taken for their needs.

As you can imagine, because soil fumigation is a significant investment in time, energy and cost, there has been no shortage of effort to reduce or eliminate it in the last decade.

Through competing products, the desire to reduce the amount of active ingredients applied to soils, and the push towards biological products, fumigation is in the crosshairs of many interested parties. Yet

surprisingly, we find that Metam still holds its value for the grower.

Have the methods of controlling, say, Verticillium or nematodes changed over the years, and if so, how? We’re talking about significant use, millions of gallons of crop protection product applied

per year, for over 50 years. In the early days, most applications went through the pivot as chemigation.

Wisconsin was the early adopter, in the late 1990’s, of using ground applications to apply Vapam.

With buffer zones implemented in continued on pg. 14

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BC�T July 13

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 13

the early 2010’s, most applications across the country flipped from water-run to ground applied.

Add to this that cultural practices have also changed in the last few decades, with plowing being a rare event, and we find that diseases tend to be concentrated more toward the soil surface.

We want to ensure that application

and the placement of Vapam coincide with where the pest is located to maximize the efficacy of the product.

By using a MiniRAE, we now have the capability to do that like never before.

What do you feel your main roles are in working with potato and vegetable growers? As the AMVAC Metam specialist, my role is to ensure

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that growers are getting the optimal benefit from their application. I will be spending a lot of time in fields this fall with a MiniRAE to ensure positive results.

This is a fantastic opportunity to better educate growers and applicators alike on the correct placement of Vapam to get the very best fumigation results possible while providing a safe and reliable approach to fumigation.

The last couple of years, I have been able to get out and work with different growers and applicators.

Through my new role, that will be taken to a new level.

How can you best help them, and with what tools in your toolbox?

With optimal fumigation, we will be giving them the strongest foundation on which to grow their potato crops. Through soil fumigation and Above and Opposite Page: Once the foundation for a successful crop is established, AMVAC offers BLOCKER soil fungicide for suppression of common scab and Rhizoctonia. Then, once the potatoes go into storage, SmartBlock can be used to help control sprouts.

BLOCKER, we are preparing the land and giving them the best opportunity to maximize their return on those acres.

For example, I worked with a grower over the past couple of years employing a MiniRAE, and we found that there were some gaps in his application.

With the MiniRAE, I’ll dig a trench in the field after fumigation and poke some holes in the side of the trench.

I can then use the tool to measure the amount of MITC in each of those holes.

With that information, we get a picture of where the MITC is moving within the soil profile, and we can see if there are any flaws in the application and make necessary adjustments.

In this case, we were getting some skips between the shanks where we were not seeing any fumigant at

all. With a few adjustments to the nozzles and a little bigger sweep, we were able to close those gaps and get a more even application.

The MiniRAE also showed that, at their current depth of application, we were missing the area where the largest portion of the disease was at. We raised the application depth up a couple of inches, and with that adjustment, we were able to get an even application within the soil profile.

Above: The North Central Irrigation team installs two pivots at the Food + Farm Exploration Center.

I’ve heard your name mentioned in conjunction with research at the Hancock Ag Research Station— how can you help growers through continued on pg. 16

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BC�T July 15

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 15

research, and any current projects you can talk about? Yes! I am always tinkering, which is why I love my job.

My first job out of college was with a research and consulting company and I have always enjoyed research, but just not as a full-time job.

I have a great relationship with the station, and in addition to ongoing fumigation projects, this year I am working on a project to reduce soil nitrates, but in a very unconventional way.

Wisconsin and other states have identified soil nitrate concentrations as being high, and a solution is needed. We manufacture Rejuvenate, a growth regulator to reduce weak, excessive stems in potatoes.

The theory is that, if we can better control stem numbers, we may not need as much fertilizer, yet we would

still be able to maintain our yield.

I’m sure several approaches will be needed to help with this challenge, but I want to be part of the solution if I can.

What is your favorite part of the job, and do you ever have successes that make you proud of what you do?

I feel that, in some small way, I have a part in helping growers with agricultural challenges that pop up. That may be improving their fumigation performance, issues with common scab, or other things that seem to pop up in Wisconsin and throughout North America.

If I’m able to bring an idea or solution to a grower’s challenges, it is a very good day for me.

Aside from fumigation, what other areas of crop protection do AMVAC and you, personally, help growers

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with? AMVAC is an international company selling products all over the world, including corn root worm control products through our SmartBox system, Lock’N Load in 50 lb. bags, herbicides on corn, soybeans, and rice, and insecticides on cotton and other crops.

We have a line of biological products that can go on any crop, including our newest biologicals BioWake® for Corn and BioWake® for Soybeans. About the only crops I haven’t worked with are rice and cotton.

Have you gotten to know growers and their kids and grandkids over the years? That I have. It is crazy to think that I have been in the business long enough to see the generational changes with farms. It has been a great opportunity and honor to have experienced this.

With these changes has also come the difference in the way information gets to individuals. So much information is at your fingertips now that the stops you make at growers’ farms may not be as many but making them is important in keeping those relationships strong.

What are the biggest changes you see growers making in the crop protection realm? The changes over the years are numerous. I guess the biggest change in recent years has been the move to softer or biological chemistry. With a large focus on sustainability, growers are looking for ways to adapt their production practices to meet those goals.

What do you see growers doing correctly now that maybe they weren’t 10 or 15 years ago? There are two big changes: the use of drones is probably the most visible, and then the focus on regenerative agriculture or sustainability.

Growers have always practiced regenerative agriculture, but there is a direct focus on it and sustainability

and trying to quantify what these different practices are bringing to the table can be challenging. How exactly does this practice affect my soil health and what are the parameters for measuring that?

What do you hope for the future of AMVAC and crop protection in general? AMVAC has an amazing number of talented, knowledgeable individuals working for us in the field and behind the scenes. I think we are well positioned to grow and provide products and services the agricultural industry is looking for in the future.

I believe that soil fumigation has far more benefits than people even realize. As when Temik was taken out of the market, we started seeing many additional pests surface that linked to that product.

I believe Vapam has lasted the test of time for a reason. It is of great value to the growers and suppresses numerous soil pests, and it really does fit into a regenerative agriculture or sustainability program.

Growing more and better-quality potatoes on fewer acres is a good thing.

Is there anything I’ve missed that you’d like to add? I would like to add that I have been blessed to work in a job I love. It has been an honor to work all these years, and I hope to work a few more in an industry that has so many amazing individuals.

The growers, chemical dealers, and researchers I have met over the years and gotten a chance to know and work with have been the highlight of my career.

“Growing more and better-quality potatoes on fewer acres is a good thing."

– Ralph Frederick

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Control Systems in Place Motors and Controls designs and manufactures control systems for potato sizing/grading facilities

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater With modern potato storage facilities relying on automatic sizers, graders and sorters, as well as artificial intelligence, and robotic packing machines and palletizers, there’s a greater need than ever for precise, tested and reliable master control systems.

Enter Kevin Konopacky of Motors and Controls of WI, LLC. He likes to call what he designs and builds “potato

18 BC�T July

line control systems.” “I’ve been in the control business since 1987,” he says, “and all over the world, from France, Japan and Germany to Mexico and the United States.”

“We’re kind of an electrical do-itall service provider. We sell electric motors, frequency drives, gear boxes, air compressors, pulleys, and control components,” he relates.

Above: Rod Gumz (left) of Gumz Muck Farms employs the services of Kevin Konopacky (right), owner of Motors and Controls of WI, LLC, who is building what he calls a precision “potato line control system” for the farm’s grading and packing facility.

Below & Opposite Page: Kevin Konopacky of Motors and Controls wrote software and sequences, built a master board and supplied, wired and programmed all the monitors, controls and switches for the Gumz Muck Farms potato line control system.

“We have a complete motor shop where we can realign, rebuild and refurbish motors up to 300 horsepower,” adds Konopacky, who bought the Plover, Wisconsin, business in 2002.

for their potato operation, he gladly welcomed the project!

When Rod and Richard Gumz of Gumz Muck Farms, in Endeavor, contacted Konopacky to inquire about their new distribution process

In all, the Gumz Farms potato control system operates four lines with six holding tanks, and three dump stations. Each of the four lines can

Konopacky wrote software and sequences, built a master board and supplied, wired and programmed all the monitors, controls and switches.

run to any of four pick tables and to any one of 10 grading and packing locations, for more than 50 scenarios.

Over 140 devices are controlled and more than 200 external sensors are monitored with a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller.)

“I test every wire, flip and trip every switch and overload, and test all the software and commands,” Konopacky continued on pg. 20

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Control Systems in Place. . . continued from pg. 19

explains. “But once I do, and it’s up and running, the operator simply uses the touchscreen to select what pick table, dump station and VolmPack machine he or she wants each potato line to go to.”

POTATO DISTRIBUTION “What we’re assembling is a new potato distribution system,” Rod Gumz explains. “We have added packing machines, and with Kevin’s help, we set a goal to improve flexibility, adaptability, and efficiency,

and our team feels we have accomplished that.”

“With the ever-changing market, we want to continue to evolve our business,” Gumz states. “We need to provide the best quality product, build flexibility in strategies and operations, and foster continuous improvement and innovation.”

“In this phase,” he notes, “we need to develop a distribution system that sets our company up for today’s

JOHN DEERE 8RX

After potatoes are washed, they are automatically pulled from the holding tanks and conveyed to the packaging machines. The bulk of potatoes leave the farm in 3-, 5-, and 10-pound bags, and as Gumz Farms has expanded over the years, more packing capacity has been added.

“With increased demand for yellow potatoes,” Gumz explains, “we need to continue to be ready to meet our customer needs. We can manage almost any configuration our customers throw at us.”

“The HMI [Human-Machine

310, 340, 370, 410

Top Left: The HMI (Human-Machine Interface) allows an operator to select what potato variety and size they want to run and where they want it to go. Kevin developed the program and worked with Gumz maintenance technicians when they tested every overload, speed control, and emergency stop switch.

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market and any shifts in the market for years to come. This is one step in our strategic planning process.”

Top RIght: The Gumz Farms potato control system operates four lines with six holding tanks, three dump stations, one tote dump station and one shared conveyor from another line. Each of the four lines can run to any of four pick tables and to any one of 10 grading and packing locations across the four lines, for more than 175 scenarios.

Interface] allows an operator to select what they want to run and where they want it to go,” he states. “Kevin developed the program and worked with Gumz maintenance technicians when they tested every overload, speed control, and emergency stop switch.”

“We have a good relationship with Kevin,” Gumz adds. “Motors and Controls has been working with us for over 10 years.”

AG INDUSTRY About 80 percent of the Motors and Controls business is in the agriculture industry, Konopacky notes, though he is currently expanding into all industries.

Some of the potato and vegetable growers he’s had the privilege to work with include Worzella’s, Paragon Potato Farm and Wysocki’s, Paramount, the Okray’s, and many smaller operations.

“We do most of the Roberts Irrigation vertical hollow-shaft irrigation motors, the big ones out in field,” he says, “and rewind and refurbish those.”

“We can consult if customers have electrical issues with machinery,” Konopacky adds, “and supply control products. We stock a lot of the parts on our shelves in Plover, so we can keep factories running by repairing motors and gear boxes and can design and build electrical systems for them like this one.”

When asked why the agriculture industry has been keeping him busy, Konopacky replies, “I’d like to think my experience in the control industry lends us to create a good product.

I bought my first relay when I was 11 years old, so I’ve been in the business a while.”

“This is something I really enjoy doing,” Konopacky concludes. “The people in this industry are wonderful, and I like to help them with machines that make their lives easier.”

“I test every wire, flip and trip every switch and overload, and test all the software and commands.”

– Kevin Konopacky,

Motors and Controls of WI, LLC

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Essential Oils Combat Root-Knot Nematodes

Above: Root-knot nematodes infect the roots of plants, causing tissue swelling, hindering nutrition absorption, and suppressing growth and development.

Research has increasingly focused on developing natural, safe, environmentally friendly control methods

leaves, stems, flowers, and roots.

These oils have bioactive properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant effects.

While fumigants offer excellent soilclearing effects, they also eliminate beneficial soil microorganisms, and most nematicides can only target nematodes themselves, without killing nematode egg masses.

Rich in aldehydes, terpenes, phenols, and esters, essential oils have natural pest- and disease-fighting abilities. In combating root-knot nematodes, many essential oils have demonstrated the ability to inhibit nematode activity, prevent reproduction, and reduce infection rates in plants.

With the push for sustainable agriculture, research has increasingly focused on developing natural, safe, and environmentally friendly control methods, with essential oils showing significant potential in controlling root-knot nematodes.

Essential oils can control rootknot nematodes through several mechanisms. First, the active components in essential oils can directly affect the nematodes’ nervous systems, disrupting their movement and reproductive ability.

Essential oils are volatile substances extracted from aromatic plants’

Many studies have found that essential oils containing terpene

By JH Biotech Inc. Product Division Manager Peter Feng, Ph.D. Root-knot nematodes are one of the major pathogens in agricultural production. These nematodes infect the roots of plants, causing root tissue swelling, which hinders nutrient absorption, suppresses crop growth and development, and ultimately leads to reduced yields.

Root-knot nematodes are widespread globally, especially prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions.

Traditionally, chemical agents such as nematicides, especially fumigants, have been used to control these pests.

22 BC�T July

compounds, such as thyme oil, peppermint oil, and cinnamon oil, effectively paralyze nematodes, preventing them from infesting plant roots.

ANTIOXIDATION & ANTIMICROBIAL Additionally, essential oils have strong antioxidation and antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth and reproduction of root-knot nematodes.

Essential oils like clove oil and lemongrass oil are rich in phenolic compounds that can destroy nematode cell membranes, leading to their death. Moreover, essential oils can boost plants’ immune systems, promote healthy root growth, and increase crop resistance to nematodes.

In recent years, numerous studies on essential oils for controlling rootknot nematodes have shown varying effects.

“In combating root-knot nematodes, many essential oils have demonstrated the ability to inhibit nematode activity, prevent reproduction, and reduce infection rates in plants.”

– Peter Feng,

Ph.D., JH Biotech, Inc.

essential oils for their lethal effects on root-knot nematodes and found that wormwood, cinnamon, peppermint, lemon balm, lemon eucalyptus, rue, and clove oils were effective in killing half of the nematodes at dilutions higher than 500x.

Cinnamon oil proved the most effective, killing over 50% of the 07-25 Badger16 Common'Tater 1 2025-06-02 9:43 am One study tested different (7.25x4.75).v3.pdf nematodes at concentrations as

low as 1/10,000 and inhibiting egg mass hatching at concentrations of 1/1,000. Since cinnamon oil is a 25(b)-exempt material, it is easily available on the market in plant protection products.

In addition, some commercial essential oil products are gradually being applied in agriculture for root-knot nematode control. continued on pg. 24

BC�T July 23

Essential Oils Combat Root-Knot Nematodes. . . continued from pg. 23

Neem oil, for example, has broad-spectrum insecticidal and antibacterial properties and has been proven effective against root-knot nematodes.

The main active ingredient in neem oil, Azadirachtin, inhibits nematode reproduction and prevents egg hatching. Neem oil is currently classified as an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered pesticide, which makes it more expensive than 25(b) exempt products, complicating its promotion.

The main components of clove oil and cinnamon oil, such as eugenol and cinnamaldehyde, are effective in controlling soil-borne diseases like damping-off caused by Rhizoctonia solani, wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum, and bacterial wilt caused

by Ralstonia solanacearum.

Alternatively, applying them in a fumigant-like manner—before planting and covering them with plastic to enhance volatility—could improve efficacy.

Additionally, the cost of different

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Additionally, essential oils have multiple bioactive properties. Beyond controlling nematodes, they promote plant health and reduce reliance on other pesticides and fertilizers.

However, there are challenges in using essential oils for nematode control. First, essential oils are volatile, and their residual effect in the soil is relatively short, potentially requiring frequent applications to maintain effectiveness.

Therefore, applying plant protection essential oil products based on cinnamon oil can not only reduce the damage caused by root-knot nematodes to crop roots but also lessen the impact of other soilborne diseases on crops.

N V S

ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY The primary advantage of using essential oils to control root-knot nematodes lies in their natural and environmentally friendly characteristics. Compared to traditional chemical nematicides, essential oils do not pollute the soil, water sources, or ecosystems, and they pose relatively low risks to human health.

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Essential oils are volatile substances, extracted from aromatic plants’ leaves, stems, flowers, and roots, that have bioactive properties such as antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant effects.

essential oils varies significantly, with some highly effective oils being relatively expensive, which presents challenges for large-scale agricultural production.

Moreover, the effectiveness of essential oils can be influenced by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and soil type, requiring adjustments based on specific conditions in practical applications.

In conclusion, essential oils show significant potential as a natural and environmentally friendly alternative for controlling root-knot nematodes.

With advancements in agricultural technology and increasing demand for sustainable agriculture, essential oils are likely to become an essential part of future integrated pest management strategies.

PEOPLE Pavelski Named Spudwoman of the Year Alicia Pavelski of Heartland Farms connects potato industry to the commmunity

By Melinda Waldrop, managing editor, Spudman Alicia Pavelski claimed the title of Spudwoman of the Year a short 14 years after moving to Hancock, Wisconsin, from Milwaukee, following her engagement to her husband, Jeremie, of Heartland Farms.

“He suggested I just come to the farm until I found another job in my career field,” Alicia says. “I was so fortunate to be able to go around to different departments and see what the farm was like and learn about it, because I do not have a farming background.

I kind of just fell in love and became ingrained in it.”

She discovered that potato farming wasn’t that far afield from her original plan.

“My degree and what I did was architectural engineering with an emphasis on electrical, so power distribution, solar panels, everything that’s electrical,” she explains. “It’s amazing how much there is of that on modern farms. Also, the project management side of the things— we’re always building and growing at Heartland.”

Eye-catching evidence of that stands nearly 39 feet tall at the entrance to the Food + Farm Exploration Center, a 24-acre agritourism initiative in nearby Plover, Wisconsin. Its STEM gallery includes a life-size pivot irrigator and tractor cab simulator, while the Seedlings Children’s Gallery, Kitchen Lab and farm demonstration fields provide hands-on learning.

“That was an idea we had as a family, in 2017 originally,” says Alicia, who was the Exploration Center’s project manager and served as its board 26 BC�T July

president. “We wanted to create a place for the community and agritourism, and for different industry people, to showcase everything there is in agriculture, now and into the future.”

The center received a $10,000 gift from the Midwest Food Products Association last month to further its education mission.

THE POTATO MASHER The center’s most noticeable feature is the 38-foot, 11-inch, 7,500-pound “World’s Largest Potato Masher” that stretches into the sky, serving as a head-turning tribute to Wisconsin’s agricultural industry.

“It started off as a joke with our exhibit designers,” Alicia relates.

She had offhandedly asked Idaho Steel, working on Heartland’s potato dehydration facility, about the idea.

Above: Alicia Pavelski established Heartland Farms’ Food Operations Technology & Training Center as part of her community outreach efforts. Photo courtesy of K. Mueller Photography

“They were like, ‘We can do it.’ So, we ended up building it, and it has been such a fun thing to have on site,” Alicia says.

People pull over for selfies with the World’s Largest Potato Masher, she said, and the local baseball team, the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters, will wear special jerseys for one game this summer, when they’ll be the “Mashers.”

“To see something really bring our community together and show them that agriculture is a big part of this area has been amazing,” Alicia says.

COMMUNITY CONNECTION The sculpture symbolizes her ability

to connect with the community, Jeremie stresses.

employees for our farms and processors.”

“She’s got a knack for understanding what’s going to drive people to certain things,” he remarks.

Diercks, who also has an engineering background, was especially impressed with how quickly the center came together despite the challenges of procurement and cost of materials stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.

“She just has that knack of being able to get other people excited about things,” Jeremie adds, “whether it’s the World’s Largest Potato Masher, the way the [center] experiences have been built with interactive displays or understanding that the adult population might want to have mixology or cooking classes along with looking at really cool equipment.”

Andy Diercks of Coloma Farms grows potatoes six miles from Heartland. He has worked with Alicia in state potato associations and has served on the Food + Farm Exploration Center Board for several years.

“I’ve watched Alicia do an unbelievable amount of work on that project,” Diercks says.

“She’s got such a nice personality for bringing people to the table and asking very kindly: ‘Can you come in and be a part of this conversation?’

She can build people up,” Diercks states. “She’s always got a smile on her face. I’ve never seen her upset, which is not normal in this industry.”

Alicia Pavelski makes a point to pursue continuing education classes on subjects related to sustainability. Photo courtesy of K. Mueller Photography

“It’s fantastic and relevant to the challenge we face in trying to reconnect people to their food and find the next generation of

SUSTAINABLE CONNECTIONS Community connections also drive Alicia’s commitment to sustainability, a deeply rooted concept at Heartland Farms.

The farm operates high-speed irrigation systems with drop nozzles, continued on pg. 28

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People. . .

continued from pg. 27

allowing for faster water application and less evapotranspiration.

It also uses variable rate irrigation, applying specific water amounts to different soil types to reduce overall water usage, and its remotely monitored systems use real-time rainfall information to turn on and off.

Heartland Farms has also fully converted to LED lighting, uses modern, fuel-efficient equipment, and employs cover crops to reduce wind erosion and add nutrients and organic matter to the soil.

“There’s the actual science of sustainability, and we do a lot of that at the farm,” Alicia says. “I help with information gathering and reporting and working with our customers and vendors on different technologies that could help.”

“I feel that a big part of sustainability is the education side of it,” she adds, “because without educating the public, other farmers, consumers and everyone else, just one initiative won’t get very far.”

PUBLIC OUTREACH “That’s one of my big initiatives for the Food + Farm Exploration Center, as well as the tours and different things that we do at Heartland Farms, is to really spread that word, ‘Here’s 28 BC�T July

what we’re doing, but the whole potato industry is doing these things, and here’s why,’” she says.

That philosophy is borne out by the continuing education Alicia pursues, such as the MIT class she just completed on sustainability strategies.

And it was cited by one of her Spudwoman nominators, who wrote: “Alicia’s commitment to sustainability is profound. She actively pursues ongoing education in sustainability practices, participating in certificate programs at accredited universities, and consistently integrates new, innovative ideas into the farm’s operations.”

Steven James, senior director for North American potatoes at Frito-Lay, has observed Alicia’s community- and land-centered priorities in working with Heartland Farms.

“Alicia stands as a pillar of excellence within the potato industry and her broader community,” James said via email. “Her unwavering leadership, determination and thoughtful stewardship are evident in all her endeavors. The Food + Farm Exploration Center exemplifies her commitment to education, innovation and unity.”

“It not only celebrates the vast

Left: Alicia Pavelski, co-owner of Heartland Farms, is the 2025 Spudwoman of the Year.

Photo courtesy of K. Mueller Photography Right: Alicia Pavelski and her husband, Jeremie, co-own Heartland Farms of Hancock, Wisconsin, where their 7-yearold daughter, Charlotte, can often be found in the French fry lab or potato flake plant.

Photo courtesy of Alicia Pavelski

possibilities within agriculture but also nurtures a deeper understanding of our food systems among future generations,” James concluded.

FARM AND FAMILY While it’s a running joke that Alicia does a bit of everything at Heartland Farms but doesn’t have an official title, Jeremie has one all-encompassing name for her.

“In simple terms, we call her Farm Mom,” he says. “She works with a lot of us. If we have little disputes, she helps settle those, but at the same time, she always makes sure that she keeps us on our feet doing what we need to do, and she also bridges the gap from a community standpoint.

She’s our Farm Mom.” Alicia and Jeremie’s 7-year-old daughter, Charlotte, is following in the family farm footsteps.

She loves bringing her friends to Heartland Farms, her parents say, and can often be found in the French

fry lab or potato flake plant.

“She has her own little smock and hairnet, the whole nine yards,” Alicia says. “She just loves being everywhere and learning everything.

I think family and farming go hand in hand, for sure. It really does just build a stronger relationship when your entire family can be involved in something together.”

“At Heartland Farms, we like to say we’re a family of families, and it is so true,” she continues. “We have multiple families with fathers, sons, wives … entire families working at the farm. It is just awesome to see.

It makes it a different level of teamwork through which we’re all in it together.”

Seeing the farm’s impact on future generations is one of the most fulfilling parts of her work, Alicia explains.

SCHOOL LESSON “I was at my daughter’s school, walked past a classroom, and they were doing one of the lessons from the Exploration Center,” she relates.

“The teachers were talking about how much they loved it, and hearing the kids getting into it without my having any prior knowledge that they were going to be discussing it was really neat to see.”

Open now for a year and a half, the Food + Farm Exploration Center has already drawn more than 50,000 visitors, Alicia says, with many coming back more than once.

“People just keep coming back,” she says. “We’re located in a pretty small town in Wisconsin. We’ve had more visitors through the door of our center than live in this town.

People really do want to know.

They want to know what modern farming is, and the attendance

numbers really show that.”

Whether it’s building an educational center or a 39-foot potato masher, Alicia’s goal is to remain a unifying voice for the potato industry and its people.

“When I say industry, I’m not just talking farmers,” she stresses. “It’s also equipment dealers, financial institutions, insurance companies, higher education that works with agriculture, the customers and manufacturers.”

“I feel like my work with the Exploration Center has really put me in a unique spot with a lot of industry insight,” she concludes, “and I’ve been working my hardest to be that advocate working with all sectors of the industry to tell the story and bring people together.”

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Badger Beat

Successfully Manage New Biopesticides Large global pest control companies develop and register products in the category

By Russell L. Groves, University of Wisconsin (UW)-Madison Department of Entomology Biopesticides are pest control products derived from natural sources such as microbes, macroorganisms (insects and pathogens), plant extracts, and certain botanicals.

Many biopesticides are considered environmentally safe and increasingly can complement or substitute conventional chemical pesticides.

They can also be highly specific or conversely broad spectrum, and several now have unique modes of action to control a wide range of pest species.

in terms of development and registration.

Microbial biopesticides derived from fungi, bacteria, viruses and now nucleic acid are registered in various formulations, possess unique modes of biopesticide action, are influenced by a variety of human-induced factors that affect their efficacy and face challenges to their adoption into Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programs.

Biopesticides should be viewed as playing a crucial role in promoting IPM by offering effective pest management solutions, improving crop yield and quality, and reducing pest resistance while minimizing negative impacts on human and

Due to their target specificity and low-to-no environmental residual properties, biopesticides are receiving far greater attention from large global pest control companies

Table 1: Colorado Potato Beetle Large Larvae per 10 Plants, HARS, 2024.

Trt Initial

Jun 4

Jun 11

No. Application

6 DAA

13 DAA 19 DAA 26 DAA 33 DAA 41 DAA

1 Untreated

0.00 a

0.75 a

243.00 b 172.50 a 44.50 b

2.50 a

2 5x7-day at colonization (May 29)

0.00 a

0.00 a

17.75 a 22.25 a

1.00 a

1.50 a

3 4x7-day at 10% egg hatch (Jun 4)

0.00 a

1.00 a

18.25 a 23.25 a

0.25 a

0.50 a

4 3x7-day at 50% egg hatch (Jun 11)

0.00 a

0.75 a

37.75 a 23.50 a

1.25 a

1.00 a

5 2dx7-day at 90% egg hatch (Jun 18)

0.00 a

0.75 a

243.00 b 101.25 a 0.50 a

0.75 a

1

.9

< .0001

.75

P > Fa

Jun 17

Jun 24

.058

Jul 1

< .0001

Jul 9

Treatment main effect p-values determined by ANOVA. Means followed by same letter code(s) are not significantly different. a

30 BC�T July

Above: Dr. Russell L. Groves discusses insect management for potato and vegetable cropping systems at the 2024 Hancock Agricultural Research Station Field Day.

environmental health.

The growing need for biopesticides is partly a consequence of the decrease in the use of conventional pesticides due to farmers increasingly adopting reduced-risk practices, but also due to the need to address sustainability targets of buyers and customers.

Importantly, new biopesticides are regarded as having reduced toxicity to humans and the environment, thereby safeguarding biodiversity, preserving environmental health and enhancing food security.

NEW BIOPESTICIDES Researchers and companies are actively involved in developing new biopesticide formulations and strategies to enhance their efficacy.

Some emerging trends in biopesticide development include Ribonucleic acid (RNA)-based biopesticides.

As the demand for sustainable and ecologically safe pest management strategies has increased, biopesticides have made tremendous strides in recent years.

Recently registered for the control

of the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata, CPB), Greenlight Biosciences (https://www. greenlightbiosciences.com/) has registered the first sprayable RNAbased biopesticide to control feeding stages of the pest.

First available for commercial use in the 2024 production season, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered the new active ingredient Ledprona for three years, a timeframe that is consistent with EPA’s approach to other novel biopesticide products.

Ledprona is a new type of pesticide that relies on a natural mechanism called RNA interference (RNAi). This natural mechanism is used by plants and animals to protect against many viral diseases.

The rationale for EPA’s support of this and other innovative modern technologies is their potential to replace or even augment more toxic chemical-based pesticides.

Figure 1. Defoliation estimates by evaluation date (lines) and foliar applications (letter codes), HARS, 2024.

Figure 1: This is an example of the “Bulletins Live! Two” user interface.

Source: https://www.epa.gov.

Another experiment, conducted in 2021 and in collaboration with researchers at the universities of Idaho and Main The activehow ingredient Ledprona the ofworld allowed be used investigated non-target insects were affected by ainseries applications with to Calantha.

is a sprayable, double-stranded

commercially and sprayed on plants.

Non-target (non-CPB) wereproduct collected that every other week from Jun 16 through Aug 23 using both a bug-vacuu ribonucleic acid insects (dsRNA) Over pitfall a period of 5-6inyears, theof each plot to captur apparatus to capture insects in the plant canopy, and within traps placed the center targets a specific gene in the CPB. ground insects.

University of Wisconsin (UW)

SILENCING THE CPB GENE

Vegetable Entomology Program After collection, samples were sorted and cleaned to remove CPB and other debris and counted and identified to o This sprayable dsRNA product kills (https://vegento.russell.wisc. family, or species classification (if possible).

the pest by silencing the CPB gene edu/) has worked with Greenlight needed to produce thetoPSMB5 Each taxon was then assigned one of three groups: beneficial, harmful, and neutral, in the context of potato Biosciences to better understand how cultivation. protein, whose role is essential Calantha (Ledprona) can be advanced to keeping the CPB alive, without From our Wisconsin trials, specifically, we observed the largest numberIPM of non-pest insect diversity associated with into existing programs. resultingthat in acontained genetically modified treatments the Calantha treatments (treatments 2 and 6, Fig. 2). organism.

One essential element of our investigations centered upon the This RNAi-based pesticide is the continued on pg. 32 first sprayable dsRNA pesticide

BC�T July 31

Badger Beat. . .

timing of applications. The CPB overwinter as adults within soil in protected areas near tree lines or in grassy edges surrounding fields.

Adults emerge in the spring and begin to colonize in potato cropping systems soon after hilling operations.

Adults then mate and begin to lay eggs that will hatch into the feeding larval stages. This early season infestation of young larval stages is a critical period when the biopesticide Calantha should be delivered.

Mean Insect Counts

continued from pg. 31

Figure Meancounts counts non-CPB insects collected in the bug-vacuum captures over th Figure2.

2: Mean of of non-CPB insects collected in the bug-vacuum captures over the Trials were conducted at the UW’s course2021. of the sample season, HARS, 2021.

Hancock Agricultural Research Station HARS, (HARS). Experimental treatments Non-target (non-CPB) insects were successive foliar applications of received a full labeled rate of Calantha beginning at 10% egg hatch collected everydid other June Calantha applied weekly at 16 fl. oz./ Consistent with its obligation to ensure that the product notweek posefrom unreasonable adv was an ideal time to initiate the foliar 16 through Aug. 23 using both a bugacre, though treatments differed in and that residues of the product are safe for consumption, EPA determined there was “n programs low populations apparatus to capture their respective timing of the initial health and to theachieve environment, including novacuum effects to listed species underinsects the Endangered of large larvae and limit defoliation in the plant canopy, and within pitfall application. below acceptable levels (Table 1 traps placed in the center of each Specifically, foliar programs using and Fig. 1). plot to capture ground insects.

Calantha were initiated at adult colonization, then at 10% egg hatch, Another experiment, conducted After collection, samples were sorted again at 50% egg hatch (typical in 2021 and in collaboration with and cleaned to remove CPB and other initial application timing for foliar researchers at the universities debris and counted and identified to programs), and finally at peak of Idaho and Maine, investigated order, family, or species classification abundance of early larval stages how non-target insects were affected (if possible). (first and second instar stages). by a series of applications with Each taxon was then assigned to one We learned that a series of three Calantha. of three groups: beneficial, harmful, and neutral, in the context of potato cultivation.

From our Wisconsin trials, specifically, we observed the largest number of non-pest insect diversity associated with treatments that contained the Calantha treatments (treatments 2 and 6, Fig. 2).

Consistent with its obligation to ensure that the product did not pose unreasonable adverse effects on the environment and that residues of the product are safe for consumption, EPA determined there was “no risk of concern to human health and the environment, including no effects to listed species under the Endangered Species Act.” 32 BC�T July

Using Crop Nutrition to Maximize Yield Goal of Yara Incubator Farm is a complete potato program that drives productivity Yara is fully vested in its Snake River Valley Incubator Farm, located in the heart of Idaho’s potato producing region.

The farm consists of multiple pivots (each 30-160 acres in size) dedicated to fostering collaboration across the agricultural industry and exploring how a complete potato crop nutrition program, one that drives productivity and grower profitability, can also lead to a reduced carbon footprint and improved nutrient use efficiency.

the 4R’s, optimizing inputs, and using fertilizer manufactured with a low carbon footprint,” says Yara Agronomy Solutions Manager Erika Wagner.

continued on pg. 34

Amherst Junction Dry Fertilizer Facility Improving capacity, speed and efficiency!

Our state-of-the-art dry fertilizer facility represents agricultural innovation, excellence and a commitment to deliver high quality products, services and support to our valued customers.

“Yara is seeking to understand how growers can use crop nutrition as a tool to maximize yield, quality and return on investment [ROI], while improving efficiencies by following Above: At the Snake River Valley Incubator Farm, global crop nutrition company Yara is fostering collaboration across the agricultural industry to explore how a complete and optimized potato nutrition program can lead to a reduced carbon footprint and improved nutrient efficiency.

“Some of the sustainability metrics that we are looking to impact with our crop nutrition programs are nutrient use efficiency, water use

Large storage capacity and next generation blending technology improves fertilizer access throughout Wisconsin.

Contact our Amherst Junction office for more information today!

Insight FS Amherst Junction 3880 Harvest Lane Amherst Junction, WI 54407

Phone: 715-824-3151 amherstjunction@insightfs.com insightfs.com BC�T July 33

Using Crop Nutrition to Maximize Yield . . . continued from pg. 33

efficiency and productivity,” Wagner adds, “and greenhouse gas emissions on the potato acre.”

SOIL HEALTH Yara is also working to understand the soil health baseline in the Snake River Valley region of the western United States and how crop nutrition can be a tool to impact soil health through many growing seasons across the potato rotation.

Previously located in the Columbia Basin of Washington state, the Yara potato program led to increased yield and quality going into and coming out of storage in the 2022 and 2023 growing and storage seasons.

Quality improvements included an increased percentage of potato marketable yield, reduced culls and process culls, and more consistent fry color.

“We were also able to improve grower ROI on three out of three field studies with an average of $139 per acre net return,” Wagner says. “In

addition, the Yara program was able to improve nitrogen use efficiency by 6%, improve water productivity by 2-4 %, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions per ton of potato by 4.9%.”

In 2024, field-scale trials at the Snake River Valley farm compared Yara’s TopPotato crop nutrition solution to a grower standard fertility program, with multiple points of data collected throughout the season, such as:

Above: Yara Agronomy Solutions Manager Erika Wagner says the company is seeking to understand how growers can use crop nutrition to maximize yield, quality and return on investment.

• agronomic assessment of crop health and growth • in-season petiole sampling to help optimize fertilizer application rates and timing • soil sampling to identify a soil health baseline and track trends over time • targeted and replicated yield and quality data at harvest • tuber quality, fry color and quality coming out of storage (collected when potatoes were pulled from storage) • grower ROI (calculated after potatoes were pulled from storage) • impact of the top potato program on greenhouse gas emissions, nutrient use efficiency, and water productivity

Potato Agronomy Specialist Florencia Irigoyen (left) monitors the crop closely on the Incubator Farm, collecting data to help make nutrient management decisions and determine the agronomic impact at Yara’s TopPotato program. Irigoyen is shown in the field with Erika Wagner (right), agronomy solutions manager for Yara.

34 BC�T July

“Our goal on the Snake River Valley Incubator Farm, in 2024, was to provide the crop with a dynamic and optimized nutrient program to achieve high yield and quality and improved nutrient use efficiency paired with reduced greenhouse gas emissions,” says Potato Agronomy Specialist Florencia Irigoyen.

“By spoon-feeding YaraLiva CN-9 and UCAN17 [65% YaraLiva CN-9 and 35% UAN32] according to crop need throughout the season,” Irigoyen adds, “we supplied a predictable amount of available nitrogen to meet and not exceed crop needs.”

“This resulted in 19% fewer pounds of nitrogen applied in Yara treatment, an 11% improvement in nitrogen use efficiency, and a 22.7% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per ton of potato,” she says.

“At harvest,” Irigoyen relates, “potatoes from the Yara TopPotato treatment also had more consistent quality, slightly better specific gravity, and better fry color and sugar content. We will track quality out of storage and complete our calculations once potatoes are pulled from the grower’s storage.”

With collaboration across the potato value chain, Yara strives to discover innovative and effective solutions for issues that growers and the potato industry face today and will face in the future.

Knowledge sharing and Yara’s retail partners are critical to help implement more effective and sustainable agricultural practices that lead to the growth of better crops and a more resilient agricultural community.

Yara’s partners and other industry stakeholders are invited to leverage the farm’s research and findings with the opportunity to see first-hand the benefits of the crop nutrition solutions implemented.

Please follow Yara’s journey online or reach out to Erika Wagner, agronomy solutions manager, erika.wagner@ yara.com, or 208-617-0060 to learn more.

“We were able to improve nitrogen use efficiency by 11%, improve fry color and quality at harvest, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions on the acre by 24%.”

– Florencia Irigoyen, Yara Potato Agronomy Specialist

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F O C U S E D O N AG . F O C U S E D O N YO U. BC�T July 35

Harlee Kirsling

Kylie Garner

Darek Trzebiatowski

Eyes on Associates

Effort Pays Off for Scholarship Winners

Top students awarded whose immediate families are WPVGA members Academic excellence is rewarded for students earning scholarships toward higher education.

Fully aware of the need for an educated and driven agricultural workforce, the WPVGA Associate Division and Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary team up each year to raise funds through golf outings, membership dues, a silent auction, donations, and baked potato and French fry booths to award dedicated students with scholarships.

High-achieving students earn meritbased scholarships to defray costs of tuition and school fees.

The Avis M. Wysocki Memorial Scholarship is awarded to the top candidate and funded not only through a silent auction the Associate Division holds during the Grower Education Conference & Industry Show, but also via donations and a special contribution made by the Auxiliary.

Established in 2016, the Avis M. Wysocki Memorial Scholarship honors its namesake, who was a founding member of the Auxiliary and an integral part of the Wisconsin 36 BC�T July

potato industry.

For judges to remain objective, the names of the students are taken off their applications when board members review and evaluate them, thus awarding is done solely on the merits of applicants and information they provide.

Award (x4 years) and is a National Honor Society member.

“I plan to work off any debt that I accumulate over my years of schooling, as my father taught me from a young age how bad debt can set you back,” Harlee says.

This year, the Auxiliary and Associate Division came together to award eight deserving students whose families are employed by or members of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) with $9,195 in scholarships.

“Growing up on my family’s farm has given me a love for this area and the people. There have been many early mornings on the potato grading line and long days to get the harvest in,” she says. “The farm is where I learned many life skills that will help me succeed in my future occupation.”

Winner of the Avis M. Wysocki Memorial Scholarship, HARLEE KIRSLING grew up on the family potato and vegetable farm, Patoka Farms, LLC, in Amherst, and currently works there and in the Colorful Plate Café at the Food + Farm Exploration Center of Plover.

Achieving a Salutatorian rank with a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.936 at Almond-Bancroft High School, KYLIE GARNER is the daughter of Bradley and Amber Garner, with the former employed

by Weekly Farms in Plainfield.

Pursuing an agricultural business major and crop science minor at the University of Wisconsin (UW)-River Falls, Harlee was the Class of 2025 Salutatorian at Amherst High School and achieved the 2025 FFA State Degree, the Academic Achievement

Kylie has been accepted into the Animal Science program at UW-River Falls and is eager to pursue her dream of becoming a veterinarian specializing in large animal health.

She is an active member of 4-H, FFA,

Jacob Kirsling

and the National Honor Society, having held positions such as president, vice president, reporter, and treasurer in each organization.

“Growing up on a small farm in rural Wisconsin, I cultivated a deep connection with livestock and farming from an early age,” Kylie says.

“My animals have earned division, breed, and overall championship

Mason Heise

Karissa Rettler

titles at local, state, and national competitions, including supreme titles at the Wisconsin State Fair, World Beef Expo, and the Minnesota State Fair.”

the “value of feeding local families, being accountable for everything you do, and the need for new sustainable agricultural practices.”

Son of Dan and Dorota Trzebiatowski of Trzebiatowski Pickle Farm, in Waupaca, DAREK TRZEBIATOWSKI says working at the family-owned operation over the years taught him

Enrolled at UW-River Falls to pursue an agricultural engineering degree, Darek holds a Certificate of Academic Excellence (2021-’24) and Dean’s List Certificate for the same years from continued on pg. 38

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SCAN FOR EVENT DETAILS! BC�T July 37

Eyes on Associates . . . continued from pg. 37

David Trzebiatowski

Waupaca High School. He is a Future Business Leaders of America state qualifier, and a District 1 chess board champion.

“The education I receive will allow me to make meaningful contributions to agriculture and my local community, all while preserving my family legacy,” Darek remarks.

JACOB KIRSLING, whose parents are Jason and Jenny Kirsling, of Amherst, has earned 41 credits toward his crop science major and agribusiness minor at UW-River Falls, was on the fall 2024 Dean’s List, and is an Alpha Gamma Rho brother.

Jacob, who worked at Heartland Farms, Helbach Farms, Patoka Farms, Sand County Equipment and Jay-Mar from 2012-2025, was raised on the Patoka family potato and vegetable farm.

“My Patoka family-farming history goes back five generations,” he says, “and my work ethic developed by working on the potato grading line.

I recognize the importance of potatoes in Wisconsin and appreciate the work put into them from planting to growing and harvest to storage.”

Son of Lowell, a farmer who also works for Aflac, and Melissa Heise, who is employed by Swiderski Equipment and current secretary of the WPVGA Associate Division Board, 38 BC�T July

Kylie Rimmert

MASON HEISE is enrolled at Fox Valley Technical College to pursue a degree in precision agriculture.

An honor roll student and DEKALB Agricultural Accomplishment Award winner, Mason has held positions as sentinel, vice president and president in the Marathon FFA, is a member of the Rib View Ramblers 4-H, and has been a precision solutions intern at Swiderski Equipment for the past two years.

“At Swiderski Equipment, I have learned about planting technology, how to set up and inspect planters, and about agronomic variables that affect planting,” he says. “The Precision Agriculture program at Fox Valley Technical College will build on the foundation I need to install, repair and operate precision technology in equipment.”

Employed by Flyte Family Farms, of Coloma, since 2021, KARISSA RETTLER has earned 52 credits at UW-Stevens Point toward her pre-vet and biology degrees, with a chemistry minor. She is also a National FFA Scholarship and High School FFA Scholarship winner, a member of the National Honor Society, and was Class Salutatorian at Tri-County High School.

“I will be graduating next year as a junior and have already applied

Alexia Rank

to veterinary school,” she notes.

“I’m currently 18th on the waitlist at UW-Madison. After receiving my Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from either UW-Madison or the University of Iowa, I plan to come back to Central Wisconsin and open my own veterinary clinic.”

“In the future, I plan to practice on both small and large animals, and my career will benefit the agriculture industry because I hope to help support and practice on 4-H and FFA animals for free,” Karissa says, “just like my veterinarian has done for me from time to time.”

Growing up on Trzebiatowski Pickle Farms, DAVID TRZEBIATOWSKI has already earned 19 credits toward an electrical engineering degree and soils science minor at UW-Platteville.

In addition to being a National Honor Society member, David was involved in cross country, track and field, math team, chess club and student council at Waupaca High school.

“Half my life, I was around computers, wanting to know how they work. Now, I wish to combine these interests into one major of electrical engineering with a computer emphasis,” he says. “I’m interested in the usage of computers and electrical systems to save resources and energy, especially in the agriculture sector.”

“I’ve been around the agricultural sphere my whole life, and I believe sustainable practices, especially dynamic water and fertilizer inputs, can improve yields,” David reasons.

“Using smart sensors, farmers can gauge how much water or fertilizer is needed to add to crops.”

Daughter of Josh and Amanda Rimmert, who both work for Alsum Farms & Produce, in Cambria, KYLIE RIMMERT is enrolled at Moraine Park Technical College pursuing an accounting degree.

She achieved the High Honor Roll, perfect attendance and the Americanism Award at CambriaFriesland School District, where she also works as a custodian. Kylie was an onion line grader at Alsum Farms & Produce and is a member of the National Honor Society.

“Growing up in a rural community, agriculture has always been a staple in my life,” she says. “My great-

grandparents and grandparents were dairy farmers for many years, and I learned a lot about hard work, dedication and the unending challenges it took to run a dairy farm.”

“My brother has a passion for farming, and one of my personal goals is to help him achieve his goal of managing our family farm,” she adds. “He told our greatgrandparents that he wanted to continue what they started, and they were humbled to hear that.”

Another exciting new scholarship opportunity presented itself, this one specifically for students who have an interest in specialty crops. Funded and awarded by a couple wishing to remain anonymous donors, the “Specialty Crop Scholarship” is curated through the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association.

The donors announced ALEXIA RANK as the inaugural winner of the annual

Specialty Crop Scholarship.

“Alexia is a very driven, dedicated person,” they explain. “She is already working in the specialty crop field and wishes to get an education in chemistry for the purpose of developing products and strategies for growers to improve their crops, protect the environment and increase their income.”

“Her recommendation letters were from reliable, known sources and supported the information she gave in her application,” they add. “We feel she is a positive light for the industry and could have a big impact on it in the future.”

Congratulations to all the deserving scholarship winners who will grow and evolve alongside the agriculture industry, taking it and their careers to the next level and having big impacts in the future.

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BC�T July 39

Marketplace

by Dana Rady, WPVGA Director of Promotions & Consumer Education

Potato Export Opportunities Explored in Canada Relationships formed with Canadian growers & potato board representatives Canada is a beautiful country.

proximity to home.

Unfortunate as it is to say, whenever I thought about traveling in my younger years, Canada never crossed my mind despite its proximity. A big reason for that, in fact, could be its

The last few years, however, I’ve been privileged to get to know our northern neighbors and the place they call home on a different level.

Thanks to being awarded two different grants from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection (WDATCP), the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) has Above: A Welcome Reception during the CPMA 2025 Convention and Trade Show, in Montreal, was a great way to meet old and new friends and enjoy some camaraderie. Pictured, left to right, are grower Bill Zylmans of W&A Farms in British Columbia; Peak of the Market (Manitoba) Vice President of Research, Quality and Sustainability Tracy Charlene Shinners Carnelley; Peak of the Market Director of Sales Derek Kostynuik; Peak of the Market Chief Executive Officer Pamela Kolochuk; and WPVGA Director of Promotions Dana Rady.

Left: WPVGA Director of Promotions Dana Rady visited the CPMA Convention and Trade Show booths of representatives who’d attended Wisconsin’s Reverse Trade Mission, in April 2024. Here, she stopped by the Prince Edward Island booth to visit Greg Donald and his team. Pictured, from left to right, are Bill Zylmans of W&A Farms; Rady; Kendra Mills of PEI Potatoes; and Donald (PEI Potatoes).

40 BC�T July

been working to expand potato exports to Canada and Mexico.

locations in Toronto, 2023, and Vancouver, in 2024.

As a result of a strong base established via those efforts, the Promotions Committee decided to continue building on the foundation created even after the two grants ended in January 2025.

The best way to describe Montreal is a cross between Europe and the United States. Parts of the city

resemble urban life in the United States, even in terms of architecture, culture, etc. Travel a few blocks away from the main area of town, continued on pg. 42

The plan was to attend and have a booth at Expo ANTAD in Guadalajara, in March, and to attend the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Convention and Trade Show, in April.

In April 2025, the CPMA Convention and Trade Show attracted more than 4,000 attendees and 630 exhibitors representing 300-plus companies to Montreal, Quebec.

The amazingly beautiful city of Montreal has a completely different vibe from the show’s previous two Above: More of the Canadian contingent joined a group at the PEI Potatoes booth during the CPMA 2025 Convention and Trade Show. Pictured from left to right are Victoria Stamper of United Potato Growers of Canada, Dana Rady, Greg Donald, Caleigh Hallink-Irwin of the Canadian Potato Council, Bill Zylmans, and Kevin Brubacher of the Ontario Potato Board.

BC�T July 41

Marketplace . . .

continued from pg. 41

however, and you come to what’s known as “Old Montreal,” where well-maintained cobblestone streets abound, and quaint restaurants, coffee shops, and stores are prevalent.

CONNECTIONS MADE What was even more amazing, however, was the ability to connect with good friends from the different provinces at the show.

In April 2024, the WPVGA hosted a Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) for a group of seven Canadians who visited several farms in Wisconsin over the course of a week. It was an enjoyable time, as many in the group had never visited the Badger State.

Additionally, most of the Canadian representatives on the RTM were leaders of their potato boards in various provinces, and ultimately, a connection to other growers from each area at the CPMA 2025 show.

It was wonderful to meet up with six of the seven representatives from Wisconsin’s RTM and have them introduce WPVGA to other growers from their regions. As it turns out, most of those growers had already

heard about the “great time had in Wisconsin in April 2024.”

They were all receptive to Wisconsin potatoes and appreciated having representatives from a nearby potato-growing state in attendance.

The specific details of where this road is heading are not fully known. But the ability to establish and continue

Above: Posing with the Peak of the Market mascot, Rosie, is a must at CPMA! Pictured, from left to right, are Tracy Charlene Shinners Carnelley, Dana Rady, Rosie, and Sarah Maud and Michelle Flis of Les Producteurs de Pommes de Terre du Quebec.

building quality relationships goes a long way toward when an opportunity presents itself.

WPIB Focus Wisconsin Potato Assessment Collections: Two-Year Comparison Month

Jul-23

Aug-23

Sep-23

Oct-23

Nov-23

Dec-23

Jan-24

Feb-24

Mar-24

Apr-24

May-24

CWT

1,313,762.07

1,528,723.01

977,118.59

2,045,401.98

2,686,018.96

2,077,816.49

2,083,671.00

2,011,188.99

2,168,247.92

3,200,286.89

2,629,261.77

22,721,497.67

Assessment

$105,353.00

$122,297.83

$78,169.48

$163,634.01

$214,877.01

$165,983.07

$166,830.95

$160,961.88

$173,459.55

$256,024.32

$210,308.70

$1,817,899.80

Month

Jul-24

Aug-24

Sep-24

Oct-24

Nov-24

Dec-24

Jan-25

Feb-25

Mar-25

Apr-25

May-25

CWT

2,082,664.08

1,837,453.47

642,921.10

2,193,868.28

2,558,234.61

2,533,917.93

2,160,286.12

1,795,454.22

1,467,937.58

2,343,812.59

1,959,992.68

21,576,542.66

Assessment

$167,100.87

$146,986.28

$51,433.66

$175,474.49

$204,693.85

$202,713.44

$172,787.78

$143,636.38

$117,470.22

$187,505.21

$156,799.28

$1,726,601.46

42 BC�T July

Jun-24

Jun-25

Year-to-Date

Year-to-Date

NPC News

House-Passed Budget Bill Retains Potato Priorities Key Farm Bill components include NPC-supported specialty crop funding On May 22, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a sweeping budget reconciliation bill, via a vote of 215-214, aiming to enact President Donald J. Trump’s agenda and increase spending for commodity programs and crop insurance.

The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” funds key Farm Bill components, including National Potato Council (NPC)supported specialty crop funding enhancements, by reducing SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) spending by $295 billion.

• Specialty Crop Research Initiative: $175 million per year (an increase from $80 million) • Specialty Crop Block Grant Program: $100 million per year (an increase from $85 million) • Adjusted Gross Income: The limitation is eliminated if 75% or more income is derived from farming.

• Market Access Program: $200 million (a 100% increase) • Section 7721 – Pest and Disease programs under Plant Protection

Act: $90 million per year (an increase from $75 million) The legislation now moves to the Senate, where it can pass with a simple majority, bypassing filibuster threats. However, any Senate modifications need to be sent back to the House for consideration.

“The current lack of a modern Farm Bill remains concerning, particularly for the fruit and vegetable sector within specialty crops,” says NPC Chief Executive Officer Kam Quarles.

“Our industry has undergone more significant transformations since the

r o i er p Su F ORMU LAT IONISTANCE ES R F F O H S & WA

Above: Key Farm Bill components include specialty crop funding that the National Potato Council supports.

2018 Farm Bill than any other part of agriculture.”

“The landscape for specialty crop growers is drastically different today compared to when the last Farm Bill was enacted,” Quarles adds, “and we continue to urge Congress to provide growers the modern tools they need through a comprehensive, bipartisan Farm Bill.”

Badge® is a registered trademark of Gowan Company, L.L.C. Always read and follow label directions.

Those specialty crop funding enhancements include:

BC�T July 43

Potatoes USA News How to Menu More Potatoes

R.J. Harvey makes presentation to American Culinary Federation chefs American Culinary Federation (ACF) chefs said they were astounded by the creative potential and versatility of potatoes following a presentation

by Chef R.J. Harvey, director of culinary at Potatoes USA, during the organization’s recent Michigan chapter meeting.

Established in 1929, ACF is the largest professional chefs’ organization in North America. ACF offers educational resources, training, apprenticeships, competitions, and programmatic accreditation designed to enhance professional growth for all current and future chefs and pastry chefs.

About 130 chefs attended a chapter meeting of the ACF’s Michigan Chefs de Cuisine Association, where they learned about potato nutrition and versatility, as well as Potatoes USA programs that support American agriculture, the foodservice industry,

and culinary innovation.

“It was really about networking, which is key,” says Chef R.J. “People

were genuinely interested in what Potatoes USA can provide the foodservice industry from a resource perspective.”

Chef R.J. explains that attendees work for mid-volume foodservice organizations, including universities and food manufacturers.

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©2025 Atticus. Important: Always read and follow label instructions.

44 BC�T July

INTERESTING DYNAMIC “It’s an interesting dynamic of chefs,” he remarks. “They’re trying to understand what’s resonating on menus across the country and the globe so they can attract chefs doing those kinds of cuisines. They’re trying to expand their knowledge base with plate design, menu design, and business opportunities.”

Above: “Crab Rangoon Hash Brown Toasts” were on the menu when 130 chefs attended a chapter meeting of the American Culinary Federation’s Michigan Chefs de Cuisine Association.

Attendees sampled eight different potato dishes at the meeting’s evening conference, including potato gelato topped with chocolate covered potato chips, steak and potato tacos, potato gnocchi stuffed with goat cheese, and purple potato tostones served with chili crisp oil.

“People were excited to hear about how Potatoes USA can support the foodservice industry through education and resources that chefs need to develop more innovative ways to prepare potatoes,” Chef R.J. relates.

“They were also really excited to learn about the Spud Lab, our test kitchen,” he adds, “and that it’s a place chefs can come to take part in events and learn about potatoes in new and interesting ways.” continued on pg. 46

Potato biscuits with whipped cream and strawberries are just one of eight potato dishes prepared at the Michigan Chefs de Cuisine Association meeting.

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BC�T July 45

Potatoes USA News . . . continued from pg. 45

Nominations Open for 2026 Potatoes USA Board Members Potatoes USA is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for its 2026 board members. A total of 49 board seats are available, including three-year and two-year terms. All terms will begin in March 2026.

The Potatoes USA Board is currently seeking qualified nominees to succeed outgoing members in the following states for three-year terms ending February 28, 2029: Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho (5 seats), Indiana, Maine, Michigan (2), Minnesota, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Washington (5), and Wisconsin (2).

Additionally, nominations are being accepted to fill positions in the following states for two-year terms ending February 29, 2028: Idaho, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, Washington, West Virginia, and Wyoming.

Potatoes USA is the nation’s potato research and promotion organization and the central organizing force in implementing programs to strengthen demand for U.S. potatoes.

It provides the industry with ideas, information, tools, and inspiration to achieve common goals.

All state potato organizations have or will be receiving information and materials to begin the process of seeking and nominating interested growers. The nominating process will be completed by August 15, 2025. Appointed growers will be seated on the Board at the 2026 Spring Meeting in Denver, March 10-12, 2026.

Board Member Guidelines It is in the best interest of both potato production regions and Potatoes USA to recruit board members who take an active interest in participating on the Board.

A board member should act as

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a bridge between their production region and the Board, clearly communicating regional interests to the Board and relaying the Board’s initiatives and messages back to their local farming community.

A nominee for Potatoes USA should be willing to: • Attend board meetings for the entirety of their term, including: - S pring Meeting: Held in Denver, Colorado, the second week in March.

- S ummer Meeting: Held in early August. The location changes annually. inter Meeting: Held alongside -W the Potato Expo, typically the first or second week in January. The location changes annually.

• Be active in the potato-farming community.

• Be actively involved in community

GROWING BEYOND

initiatives, local government, or cultural or business affairs, demonstrating leadership within the community.

•B e willing to represent and communicate with his/her constituents on a regular basis.

• T ake the time to support Potatoes USA programs in his/her area.

• S peak to grower groups, newspaper reporters, and interested parties about Potatoes USA programs, relating the value of the Board to all growers, how the 3-cent per hundredweight assessment is invested, and ask for input from those interested in becoming active in the promotion of potatoes.

If you are interested in being considered by your state grower leadership to fill an open spot representing your state, please contact your state program manager.

Alternatively, contact Chelsea Gray

at the Potatoes USA office in Denver, CO. More information about the Board is available on the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) National Potato Promotion Board website (https://www.ams.usda.gov/rulesregulations/research-promotion/ potato?utm_medium).

Since 1966, Congress has authorized the development of industry-funded research and promotion boards to provide a framework for agricultural industries to pool their resources and combine efforts to develop new markets, strengthen existing markets and conduct important research and promotion activities.

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Tackling Tillage Why strip-till soil fumigation matters

By TriEst Ag Group Agronomist Josh Mays Reduced tillage systems have become a focal point throughout agriculture in recent years. The logic behind incorporating tillage reduction is clear, as there are many benefits associated with the farmer and the land he or she tends: • Reduced soil erosion • Preserved soil structure • Lessened impact on the soil microbiome • Reduced production costs • Better water management Tillage is also a critical component in the production system of many crops, especially potatoes. Two things can be right at the same time, and this is true for the importance of tillage in agriculture and the advantages of reduced tillage systems.

It is important to remember that

standard systems developed over time for a reason—because they were needed and effective.

Conventional tillage provides: • Improved aeriation • Weed suppression • I ncorporation of fertility and pest control products •H ard-pan improvements with deep tillage • Seedbed preparation

restaurant. You can have tillage, yet it comes at a cost. Portion sizes matter, and if we want a large portion, what are we willing to give up and stay under the threshold?

A larger sector of agricultural producers is introducing reduced tillage into cultural systems and TriEst Ag Group recognized the need to investigate the use of Chloropicrin in this manner.

As with all decisions we make in agriculture, there is a push and pull relationship to anything we do.

The intent should be to maximize advantages while limiting the disadvantages and result in a net gain.

It’s important that we innovate and evolve alongside our customer base. Much like conventional tillage systems being a standard for a reason, there are principles to fumigation that are required by label to ensure proper handling and efficacy:

A friend and colleague of mine in agriculture compared this to counting calories while looking at a menu in a

• S oil properly prepared in seedbed and free of clods at time of application • S oil moisture at 50% or greater and soil temperatures less than 90° Fahrenheit at the time and depth of application pplication depth must be 12 •A inches from the nearest air-to-soil interface • F ield residue must be managed with little crop residue on the soil surface that can’t impact or break through the soil seal

Above: Equipment used for strip-till fumigation includes a large cutting coulter, row cleanout, application shank, sealing wheel and trace closing coulters.

48 BC�T July

• F or sealing, soil must be uniformly mixed to at least a depth of 3 inches to eliminate the chisel trace.

Following elimination of chisel trace, the soil surface must be compacted or pressed to complete the seal

Just like it is for our customers, it’s a challenge to figure out how to accomplish reduced tillage and maintain efficacy for growing a productive crop.

Over the past three years, TriEst Ag Group has worked diligently with grower cooperators to develop equipment application options to achieve these goals. The result of these efforts is strip-till fumigation.

As its name implies, with the striptill fumigation method, we are only applying tillage in the “strip” or area where fumigant is specifically being applied in the row.

Equipment used for strip-till fumigation includes a large cutting coulter, row cleanout, application shank, sealing wheel and trace closing coulters.

The equipment used for this process: 1. Large straight-edge coulter that cuts through field debris in the

center of the row 2. Notched coulter (row cleanout) that grabs the cut field debris and throws it out of the strip 3. Shank that is providing deep tillage to reduce compaction in the root zone and applying the fumigant product 4. Set of wavy coulters (closing discs) that are pinching the soil behind the shank to shut down the chisel trace and eliminate any chimney effect 5. Compacting wheel (several options pending the desired final surface) is sealing the tilled area after the shank trace has been closed A lot of our development work has been focused on potato growing systems, so we will use that as an example.

Potato is typically grown on 34-40inch row centers, and our tillage/ continued on pg. 50

Above: Potato is typically grown on 34-40inch row centers, and our tillage/application strip is 12 inches wide, which encompasses the area the potatoes will be grown in.

BC�T July 49

Tackling Tillage . . . continued from pg. 49

application strip is 12 inches wide, which encompasses the area the potatoes will be grown in. If we use a 36-inch row center example, 36 inches divided into 12 inches equals 33.33%, representing the percentage of land that is tilled.

This effectively reduces tillage by 67% for our fumigation application.

The tillage reduction is magnified several times when you consider that the preparation tillage passes prior to the application are also eliminated. The number of passes, and costs associated with them, are on a case-by-case basis, as all farming operations have different procedures.

The previous crop is also very important in this discussion, due to the level of difficulty associated with heavier residue. A few good examples from potato growing systems would be: • Prior crop being soybeans or a small grain – one disc pass prior to application pass • Prior crop being corn – one discripper pass followed by two disc passes prior to application pass The impact can be quite significant when you consider the cost and time 50 BC�T July

“With the strip-till fumigation method, we are only applying tillage in the ‘strip’ or area where fumigant is specifically being applied in the row.”

– Josh Mays, TriEst Ag Group

savings of removing pre-tillage passes out of a production system.

An added benefit to no pre-tillage is conserving moisture. Tillage opens the land to moisture loss and could impact fumigation viability, resulting in more lost time.

Using an application with no pretillage requirement insulates that moisture and allows for a much longer application window in the fall or spring.

Another key consideration pending the crop being grown is any tillage that is done after fumigation that may move or bring in untreated soil into the application strip.

Like pre-tillage, there are many

Above: The prior crop determines whether, for example, one disc pass is required before the application pass (soybeans or small grain), or one disc-ripper pass followed by two separate disc passes are required prior to the application pass (corn).

considerations here based on specific operations, but it must be accounted for to ensure efficacy and a quality result.

Trial results in several geographies across the potato production regions of the United States show how strip-till fumigation performed when competing head-to-head against traditional grower standard application practices.

Now News Fairchild Equipment Celebrates 40th Anniversary Material handling solutions company has 325 team members serving five states

Fairchild Equipment is proud to announce its 40th anniversary this year, marking four decades of leadership and innovation in material handling solutions across five states.

From a small business with just eight employees, Fairchild Equipment has grown into an award-winning industry leader with over 325 team members serving Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, and Northern Illinois.

Founded in 1985 by Gary Fairchild as Yale Green Bay, Fairchild Equipment has continually expanded its services and offerings to meet the complete, evolving material handling and storage needs of its customers.

that have greatly influenced the culture at Fairchild Equipment,” Gary says.

“Several of our original eight employees are still part of our team or only recently retired,” he adds, “ a reflection of the loyalty, dedication, and shared commitment that have defined our success. Our people are the difference.”

FIFTY TRUSTED BRANDS Fairchild Equipment’s history is marked by significant accomplishments, including its expansion from offering a single forklift brand in the Green Bay, Wisconsin, area to dealing in over 50 trusted brands of materials handling and construction equipment with

Fairchild Equipment Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chad Fairchild is pictured here announcing the company’s 40th anniversary.

sales, service, and rentals across five states.

Important milestones over the years include the 2001 expansion into Minnesota, the addition of JCB Construction equipment in 2009, and the renaming of the company continued on pg. 52

With its unwavering commitment to delivering innovative solutions, Fairchild Equipment has widened its offerings beyond forklifts while remaining family-owned and dedicated to operating by its core values.

Reflecting on the company’s growth and philosophy, founder and chairman Gary Fairchild shares, “Our achievements over the years are rooted in a steadfast commitment to customer satisfaction and the collective strength of our team.”

“My experience as a professional football player taught me the importance of teamwork, resilience, and pursuing excellence—principles BC�T July 51

Now News . . .

continued from pg. 51

to Fairchild Equipment in 2013.

Most recently, the company has announced the acquisition of the Yale forklift brand in 11 more counties in Southern Wisconsin and Northern Illinois. In the coming year, Fairchild Equipment will be adding loading dock and door sales, parts, and service to its offerings.

Chad Fairchild, CEO and son of Gary Fairchild, reflects on this significant milestone, stating, “Growing up in the business, I learned the importance of listening to customers—a principle

my father instilled in our company from the start.”

“Our customers play a critical role in the supply chain,” Chad says, “and we’re proud to deliver solutions that help our customers keep goods moving seamlessly across the nation.

With the addition of loading dock and door offerings this year, we’re excited to continue to expand our portfolio of products and services to help businesses in our community operate with even more efficiency.”

Over the years, Fairchild Equipment

has been recognized with over 50 accolades, including being an 11-time recipient of the MVP (Most Valuable Partner) Award from the Materials Handling Equipment Distributors Association (MHEDA), among others.

This commitment to excellence extends beyond business success, with Fairchild emphasizing family values, safety, and giving back to the communities it serves.

For more information, visit www.fairchildequipment.com.

Potato Storage Is at the Crossroads

PAA and NAPSO to host landmark storage symposium in Wisconsin The North American Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) is pleased to announce it will be co-hosting a Technical Storage Symposium during the upcoming Potato Association of America (PAA) Annual Meeting, July 28, 2025, in Madison, Wisconsin.

This pivotal event is organized in collaboration with the PAA Utilization and Marketing Section and marks a significant gathering of the foremost minds in potato storage science, engineering, and commercial application.

The 2025 symposium aims to bridge critical knowledge gaps and foster dialog across the spectrum of

storage-related disciplines.

Focus on Innovation and Practical Solutions The 2025 PAA Storage Symposium will convene leading experts from academia, industry, and global research institutions, each of whom will address cutting-edge advancements in: • Post-harvest storage chemistry – exploring the biochemical dynamics that influence dormancy, sprout inhibition, and quality retention.

• Structural design and engineering of modern storage facilities – emphasizing airflow optimization, moisture control, and energy

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52 BC�T July

efficiency.

•R egulatory shifts and marketdriven standards – highlighting how evolving food safety, climate, and environmental guidelines are reshaping storage protocols.

The event is especially timely as the potato sector continues to confront climate volatility, shifting market pressures, and the demand for more sustainable and resilient storage practices.

An Initiative Backed by Collaboration The inclusion of NAPSO as a cohost underscores the organization’s growing role in promoting storage best practices, knowledge exchange, and technical education throughout North America and beyond.

“NAPSO’s involvement in the PAA 2025 Symposium is both a milestone and a mission moment,” says one of the organizers. “Our goal is to elevate storage knowledge, encourage cross-sector innovation, and ensure that everyone from researchers to growers and facility managers has access to the latest science-backed insights.”

PAA / NAPSO Potato Storage Symposium Order of presentation: Introduction to NAPSO (speaker TBD): 2:00-2:10 p.m.

Kurt Demeulemeester, Inagro, Belgium: 2:10-3:10 (1-hour, 45-minute talk with 15 minutes for questions) Nora Olsen/Jeff Miller: 3:10-3:50 BREAK: 3:50-4:10 Mark Rice: 4:10-4:40 Storage Panel: 4:40-5:30 • Dale Nelson – Co-owner of Nelson’s Vegetable Storage Systems • Morgan Smolarek – Field manager of McCain Foods, WI • A.J. Bussan – Director of agronomy for Wysocki Family Farms • Gustavo Teixeria (Moderator) – University of Idaho

2025 PAA Symposium Monday, July 28 | Madison, Wisconsin Presented by the Potato Association of America (PAA) Utilization and Marketing Section & the North American Potato Storage Organization (NAPSO) The 2025 PAA Symposium brings together leading potato storage experts from academia, industry, and international research to discuss the latest insights in storage chemistry, structure design, and regulatory impacts.

Featured presentations include: • The European Experience in Storing Potatoes • Navigating the Disease Landscape of Russet Potato Variety Susceptibility • Storage Structures: Potato Storage Design and Engineering • Expert Panel Discussion on Storage Challenges

Learn more and register today at: potatoassociation.org/PAA2025 Early registration discounts available through June 15

Further Information Industry professionals, researchers, and stakeholders are encouraged to attend the full PAA Annual Meeting and especially the July 28 Storage Symposium.

Single day rates available for Monday, July 28

Additional information, including registration details and travel planning resources, can be found on the PAA 2025 Annual Meeting page: https://www.potatoassociation. org/Events/PAA2025/Pages/default. aspx#Symposium. Or get in touch with NAPSO Communications Coordinator, Emily Merk – contact@ napso.info.

The Potato Association of America 2025 Annual Meeting July 27–31 | Madison, Wisconsin

continued on pg. 54

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Now News . . .

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Badger Crops Club Tours Potato and Vegetable Farms Stops also included Pest Pros, Plainfield, and a cranberry farm in Wisconsin Rapids On April 28, members of the University of Wisconsin (UW) Badger Crops Club toured Central Wisconsin potato and vegetable farms. Stops included James Burns & Sons Farms of Almond, Wisconsin, and the pickle processing facility at Paradise Farms, also in Almond. Paradise Farms raises over 5,000 acres of cucumbers for pickles.

The Badger Crops Club also toured Pest Pros, in Plainfield, and a cranberry farm in Wisconsin Rapids.

Badger Crops Club is an organization for UW students interested in the crop side of agriculture. The club holds a monthly general meeting where it brings in a speaker from the industry. The speakers are invited to share what is new in the industry and provide insight on internships, career opportunities and more.

The meetings typically occur every third Tuesday of the month, at 7 p.m.

in Moore Hall at UW-Madison. The club also has various activities that include tours of companies in the agriculture industry, as well as fun

events such as Brewers Games.

The Badger Crops Club attends regional and national agronomy conferences so members can meet other students from across the United States and internationally who are also interested in agriculture.

The club gets its ideas from members and encourages involvement and input from all.

Above: Members of the University of Wisconsin (UW) Badger Crops Club toured Central Wisconsin potato and vegetable farms on April 18. Pictured at James Burns & Sons Farms, in Almond, are, from left to right, Ella Kohler-Washatko, Langston Jones, Ed Burns, Gage Anderson and UW Agronomy Professor Calli Anibas who serves as the advisor to the Badger Crops Club.

Left: Touring the pickle processing facility at Paradise Farms, Almond, are Badger Crops Club members, from left to right, Langston Jones, Gage Anderson and Ella Kohler-Washatko. Providing the tour is Mike Warzynski of Paradise Farms, which raises over 5,000 acres of cucumbers for pickles.

54 BC�T July

Seven Steps to Prevent Combine Fires

Keep safe this harvest season by completing maintenance checks and inspections A combine fire during harvest could be devastating. Not only do you risk losing your crop, but a fire could also result in costly damages to the combine and other property and limit your time to complete the harvest.

Before harvest 1. Do a complete maintenance check of the combine.

This includes: • Cleaning the combine to remove any oil, grease, or residue buildup • Checking the guards, brakes, and safety devices • Reviewing all working parts for any damage or leaks • Reading the manufacturer’s instructions While operating the combine 2. Use a leaf blower or broom.

These tools can help get rid of chaff,

dust, and crop residue on your machinery every 4-6 hours.

3. Carry a fire extinguisher in the cab.

Also carry a second extinguisher that can be reached from the ground.

Check these extinguishers periodically to make sure they are working properly.

Daily Farm Safety 5. I nspect the exhaust system for any leaks or damage.

Also look for any exposed or deteriorated wiring.

Consider mounting an Extinguishing Fire Ball from Elide Fire USA® on your equipment for an additional line of defense. These self-activating balls will extinguish fire when activated by flames. They are lightweight and can be placed anywhere there is concern of fire.

6. Check the following parts of the combine: •B earings – look for excessive heat or wear •B elts – make sure they have the proper tension to reduce friction and wear • F ittings – make sure they are greased • Fuel, oil, and hydraulic lines • Lubricant levels

4. Shut off the engine and let it cool for 15 minutes.

7. Clean off the combine at the end of harvest day.

Doing this before refueling can help reduce the risk of igniting any fuel or fumes.

Following these tips will help keep you safe this harvest season. continued on pg. 56 BC�T July 55

Now News . . .

continued from pg. 55

Food + Farm Exploration Center Hosts Career Fair Educational opportunity spotlights wide range of careers in modern agriculture

On Monday, April 28, the Food + Farm Exploration Center of Plover, Wisconsin hosted a unique Career Awareness Fair/Coaches Meeting & Dinner to spotlight the wide range of careers in modern agriculture.

The event brought together over 275 college students and 30 faculty coaches from across the country, all in the area for the National Collegiate Soil Judging Contest organized by Dr. Bryant Scharenbroch, University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point associate professor of Soil Science and Waste Resources.

Designed as an educational opportunity rather than a traditional job fair, the Career Awareness Fair encouraged vendors to highlight career paths in production agriculture, including agribusiness,

technology, and environmental sciences.

Attendees explored job opportunities, seasonal work schedules, degree requirements, and wage expectations while also learning about current openings.

“This event was about more than recruitment—it was about opening students’ eyes to the depth and diversity of today’s ag careers,” says Bobbi Kubish, educational programming director at the Food + Farm Exploration Center.

The event supported the Food + Farm Exploration Center’s mission to inspire curiosity and learning through the story of food and farming, from the soil to the supper table.

Special thanks to event sponsors Tessenderlo Kerley, Environmental Consulting & Technology, Inc., SWCA Environmental Consultants, Invenergy, and Olsson.

To learn more about the Food + Farm Exploration Center, visit https:// explorefoodandfarm.org.

UWSP Honors WPVGA’s Healthy Grown Program Award recognizes organization for contributions to natural resources education The University of WisconsinStevens Point (UWSP) College of Natural Resources has announced the recipients of its annual awards for 2024-’25. The awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to natural resources 56 BC�T July

education, industry innovation, and environmental conservation.

The Conservation Leader Award has been presented to the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) for its Healthy Grown Program.

Wisconsin Healthy Grown, an initiative that is nearly 30 years in the making, was created by the WPVGA in collaboration with the University of Wisconsin, the International Crane Foundation and the World Wildlife Fund.

This initiative supports farmers who integrate conservation practices into their operations through habitat restoration and sustainable land management.

In partnership with UWSP, the Healthy Grown program annually sponsors an ecosystem restoration intern who contributes to on-farm restoration projects and conducts independent research. Past student projects have focused on topics such as neotropical bird habitat usage, prairie carbon storage, and the benefits of wetland ecosystems.

Executive Director Tamas Houlihan accepted the award on behalf of the WPVGA. VISIONARY GROUP “Wisconsin’s Healthy Grown Program was started over 25 years ago by a small group of potato growers working closely with University of Wisconsin researchers,” Houlihan says. “This visionary group decided to collaborate with environmental organizations such as the World Wildlife Fund, the International Crane Foundation and Defenders of Wildlife, among others.”

Houlihan describes Healthy Grown as a high-bar certification program that helps advance growers’ use of research-based production and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) practices on potatoes, carrots and onions.

Further, it helps them efficiently manage inputs while enhancing ecosystem conservation efforts and enabling them to certify their whole farming operation because they have landscape level restoration practices, providing certified value in restoration of non-agricultural farmlands including wetlands, prairies, forests or other habitats.

The Healthy Grown standard assessment has an IPM component with specific details on a safe, effective plan for growers’ integrated weed, disease and insect management programs. The plan is reviewed annually by UW-Extension specialists.

“Importantly, the program has long-term and annual ecological restoration plans,” Houlihan explains.

“Growers work with ecology specialists to prioritize conservation actions on their privately owned, non-agricultural landscapes. Growers must provide details of work done on this plan each year.”

Ecological restoration practices include: • Prescribed Burning • Pollinator Planting • Prairie Restoration • Biological Surveys • Invasive Species Control • Water Budgets • Wetland Restoration • Stream Restoration “I’m extremely proud of the Healthy Grown Program,” Houlihan states.

“I accept this award on behalf of the WPVGA, but the real credit goes to the growers who do the on-farm IPM and conservation practices, and the researchers who work closely with them.”

Above: WPVGA Executive Director Tamas Houlihan (left) was presented with UWSP’s College of Natural Resources Conservation Leadership Award by UWSP Professor of Forestry, Dr. Michael Demchik.

intern annually to work with all the farms on their ecological restoration practices,” he states. “It’s a wonderful collaboration and we hope it continues in perpetuity.”

Dr. Mark Drew was awarded the UWSP College of Natural Resources Outstanding Alumnus Award in recognition of his distinguished career and contributions to wildlife.

The Paper Industry Leadership Award has been awarded to Ahlstrom Oyj, a global leader in fiber-based specialty materials headquartered in Helsinki, Finland. And the CNR Outstanding Contributor Award was presented to William Kolodziej, a UWSP CNR alumnus who has made exceptional contributions to the college over many years.

“I also want to recognize Dr. Deana Knuteson with the Nutrient and Pest Management Program at UWMadison who serves as the Healthy Grown program coordinator for the WPVGA, as well as Jeb Barzen, who serves as the program’s ecologist,” he adds.

“These honorees exemplify the mission and values of the UWSP College of Natural Resources,” says Brian Sloss, dean of the college.

“They are role models in their fields, mentors to our students, and champions of the environment. We proudly recognize their achievements and strong ties to our university.”

“We also greatly appreciate the partnership with UW-Stevens Point, as the growers hire a UWSP student

The awards were formally presented at the college’s annual spring banquets held in April.

BC�T July 57

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Orondis Gold DC controls pink rot in inoculated tubers. Source: USVJ0F3132022 FL Potato, Red LaSoda

Pink Rot Control in Potatoes with Orondis Gold DC Trials in Minnesota show that Orondis Gold DC fungicide provides better control of pink rot in potatoes compared to Elumin® fungicide.

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Product Benefits

• Promotes root health for better

Go for the gold in disease management with Orondis Gold DC. Don’t settle for less when you can choose best-in-class active • Combines ingredients of water and nutrient use efficiency control and help your crops turn to gold at harvest.

two powerful systemic fungicides: • Offers ease of application Ridomil Gold® SL and Orondis • Delivers strong control of Oomycete • Delivers two modes of action for diseases in potatoes, including: resistance mitigationFungicide for Potato Growers BASF Formulates • Pink rot and Pythium leak Endura® PRO offers flexible mode application windows and strong early blight control • Provides a unique of action Go for the gold in disease (oxathiapiprolin) with no crossmanagementhere with Gold DC. resistance to other products Kay, run the two digital images “2507-NewProd4.jpg” and “2507-NewProd5.png” with Orondis no caption necessary.

For more information, contact Syngenta Retail CP Sales Rep Ken Cleveland, Marathon, WI, ken.cleveland@syngenta.com.

Don’t settle for less when you can choose best-in-class control and help your crops turn to gold at harvest.

For more information, contact Syngenta Retail CP Sales Rep Ken Cleveland, Marathon, WI, ken. cleveland@syngenta.com. continued on pg. 60

As unpredictable weather patterns and shifting soil conditions continue to challenge growers, potato farmers across the country are adapting their in-season strategies to stay ahead. y | Volume 77

$28/year | $2.50/cop

O & VEGETABLE WISCONSIN'S POTAT

INDUSTRY

No. 05 | may 2025

Badger Subscribe Common’Tater Today!

From managing excess moisture and uneven emergence to responding to increased pest and disease pressure, early ETABLES & FARM E ISSUyields URANCE blightVEG alone cut by up to 20%. Growers are navigating a complex environment that demands flexibility and ETY/INScan SAF : INTERVIEW data-driven decisions.

NCAID THE VOICE OF

COREY KI Dean Kincaid Inc.

BASF understands that real-time adjustments are critical to protecting quality and maximizing yield. Whether it’s finetuning nutrient applications, adjusting irrigation timing, or selecting theWISCONSIN right crop protection tools like Endura® PRO INDUSTRY THE VOICE OF THE POTATO & VEGETABLE fungicide.

Whether you are a grower, industry partner or simply enjoy rural life,

Endura PRO fungicide is the latest innovationsign fromup BASF for potato growers.

It delivers superior todesigned receivespecifically this prestigious publication in print version, delivered residual control of difficult potato diseases including early blight and white mold.

NEMATODE SOYBE AN CYST by County d Presence Mappe ATTEN TION EMPLOYERS PAY Policy Changes To Immigration ICS & SUPPLY BADGER PLAST Augers for You Can Customize NTION: SUICID E PREVE Priority A Health & Safety

day with the . on a partly cloudy is in full swing Palmyra, Wisconsin Kincaid Inc. of Red onion harvest through over Dean blue sky peeking

direct to your mailbox for $28/year (12 issues).

wisconsinpotatoes.com/blog-news/subscribe BC�T July 59

New Products . . . continued from pg. 59

BASF Formulates Fungicide for Potato Growers Endura® PRO offers flexible application windows and strong early blight control As unpredictable weather patterns and shifting soil conditions continue to challenge growers, potato farmers across the country are adapting their in-season strategies to stay ahead.

From managing excess moisture and

uneven emergence to responding to increased pest and disease pressure, early blight alone can cut yields by up to 20%. Growers are navigating a complex environment that demands flexibility and data-driven decisions.

ADJUSTABLE AUTOMATIC MASTER POTATO BALER

Endura PRO fungicide is the latest innovation from BASF designed specifically for potato growers. It delivers superior residual control of difficult potato diseases including early blight and white mold.

Bag Sense “no bag, no dump” Works with poly and paper master bags!

Two year limited warranty

Features Include:

• OMRON P.L.C. (programmable logic control) • User Friendly Touchscreen • Infeed mechanism & discharge gates • Baler pusher with bag transport grippers • Bag inflation system • Two way adjustable accumulating chamber • Handles 3-20 lbs product bags

60 BC�T July

BASF understands that real-time adjustments are critical to protecting quality and maximizing yield.

Whether it’s fine-tuning nutrient applications, adjusting irrigation timing, or selecting the right crop protection tools like Endura® PRO fungicide.

• Variable speed accelerator conveyor assembly with JMC Space Saver Incline • Product decelerator to eliminate bounce • NEMA 12 electrical “swing-away” control panel with interloc • Motorized Bag Saddle Conveyor (150 fpm) • High speed intermediate take away conveyor with horizontal alignment

With the ability to adapt mid-season being just as important as pre-season planning, Endura PRO fungicide offers flexible application windows and strong early blight control.

Ask your BASF representative or authorized retailer about Endura PRO fungicide. Contact Justin Tuss, Appleton, WI, justin.tuss@basf.com, 920-570-2686.

Always read and follow label instructions. Endura® PRO is a registered trademark of BASF. © 2024 BASF Corporation.

All rights reserved.

DISHING IT UP WITH DANA A Salad that Has it All!

Grilled Potato Salad

Grilled Potato Salad is healthy, light, satiating, and full of flavor Column and photos by Dana Rady, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association

INGREDIENTS: 4

hole medium yellow w potatoes

4

whole red potatoes

2 Tbsp.

olive oil, divided

3 Tbsp.

red wine vinegar

When it comes to salads, I need to be in the right mood to eat them. In fact, I get frustrated with them. Unless a salad is packed with protein and/ or has another satiating ingredient incorporated, it’s not long before I’m hungry again.

yet flavorful dressings. Olive oil and vinegar, or even olive oil and lemon juice with salt and pepper, typically do the trick.

1/2 tsp.

dried parsley flakes

1/2 tsp.

red pepper flakes

I’m happy to say that I found the best of both worlds: a salad that has it all and one I can always be ready to eat!

1/2 tsp.

salt or to taste

1/2 tsp.

ground black pepper

1/2 C

banana pepper rings

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with adding potatoes to my salads, in addition to some kind of meat, which is not only healthy but also buys me some extra time in between meals.

This “Grilled Potato Salad” recipe is healthy, light, satiating, full of flavor, and best of all, quick and easy.

When I am in the mood for a salad, I also find that I gravitate to simple,

GRILLED OR AIR FRIED Want to modify? No problem! Here are some ideas. While the recipe continued on pg.62

1 tsp. ground mustard

2 whole Roma tomatoes, seeded and coarsely chopped 1/2 C

pitted Kalamata olives, halved

1C

baby arugula leaves, chopped

1 Tbsp.

capers

BC�T July 61

Dishing It Up with Dana…

Advertisers Index

continued from pg. 61

1,4 Group..................................... 29 AgCountry Farm Credit Services... 35 Allied Coop................................... 53 Antigo Tater Trot............................. 5 Atticus, LLC................................... 44 Badger State Irrigation................. 64 Big Iron Equipment....................... 17 Binfront Barriers........................... 14 Central Door Solutions................. 13 Compeer Financial........................ 45 Condon Oil Company.................... 11 Gowan Company.......................... 43 GreenLight Biosciences................ 27 Insight FS...................................... 33 Jay-Mar, Inc................................... 16 J.W. Mattek & Sons, Inc................ 15 JH Biotech, Inc.............................. 25 Nelson’s Vegetable Storage Systems Inc.................... 24

says “grilled” (don’t get me wrong– the grill certainly offers a delicious, charred flavor component), you could easily throw some potatoes in an air fryer or oven and make this salad during the winter months.

Another variation would be to add some meat. This salad would be just as good with shredded pork, chicken, or turkey. The best news is that you can change it up however you want, and those are my favorite kinds of recipes.

Want to add yet another component?

Prepare a side of homemade or frozen French fries. The crunch of the fries with the savory of the salad is out of this world.

That’s been a trend for me lately. I’ll order a salad at a restaurant with a side of French fries. Try it the next time you go to a restaurant and tell me the two aren’t an amazing combination!

62 BC�T July

DIRECTIONS Place potato slices into a medium bowl. Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil and toss to coat.

Noffsinger Mfg.............................. 41 North Central Irrigation................ 39 Nutrien Ag Solutions.................... 21 Omex USA..................................... 19

Place slices onto a medium-high heated grill. Grill potatoes for about four minutes on each side until grill marks appear. When slices are cooked, remove from heat and allow them to cool.

PGS Equipment............................. 32

Whisk together red wine vinegar, remaining olive oil, parsley, red pepper flakes, ground mustard, salt and pepper. Stir in banana pepper rings, chopped tomatoes, olives, capers and arugula. Set aside.

Schroeder Brothers Farms.............. 7

When the potatoes have cooled, cut each slice into quarters and gently fold chunks into the red wine vinegar mixture. Serve immediately.

Volm Companies........................... 23 WPVGA Spud Seed Classic............ 63

Visit https://eatwisconsinpotatoes. com/recipes/grilled-potatosalad/.

WSPIA........................................... 46

Riesterer & Schnell....................... 20 Roberts Irrigation . ....................... 31 Ron’s Refrigeration....................... 58 Sand County Equipment................. 2 Swiderski Equipment.................... 37 T.I.P............................................... 47 ThorPack, LLC............................... 60 Titan Machinery........................... 49

WPVGA Subscribers...................... 59 WPVGA Support Our Members.... 52 Yara................................................. 3

P.O. Box 327 Antigo, WI 54409 CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

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