$28/year | $3.50/copy | Volume 78 No. 11 | november 2026
THE VOICE OF WISCONSIN'S POTATO & VEGETABLE INDUSTRY
ANNUAL SEED ISSUE
INTERVIEW:
JIM & JOHN MATTEK
J.W. Mattek & Sons Inc. RESEARCHERS DEVELOP 5 New Chipping Varieties
2026 WISCONSIN CERTIFIED Seed Potato Growers Directory SECURING AGRICULTURE’S Workforce Act Gains Steam PROTECT THE FARM WHILE Planning for Long-term Care A Frito-Lay variety of certified seed potatoes is harvested at J.W. Mattek & Sons in Deerbrook, Wisconsin, under blue skies on a beautiful fall day, September 25, 2026.
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On the Cover: J.W. Mattek & Sons Inc. had ideal weather for certified seed
potato harvest, on September 25, 2026, in Deerbrook, Wisconsin, when the front cover photo was taken. The crew is shown harvesting a Frito-Lay variety on the 1,600-acre, sixth-generation seed farm raising potatoes on a three-year rotation with oats and clover.
8 BADGER COMMON’TATER INTERVIEW: Windrowers lay down a Frito-Lay variety of certified seed potatoes on J.W. Mattek & Sons Inc. farm. This issue’s interviewees, brothers John and Jim Mattek, have each been working on the family farm for 50 years or more, but farming has been a way of life for the family since the 1800’s when James W. Mattek operated a dairy and potato business. In 1960, the farm became incorporated, and Jim, John, and their families continue to raise quality foundation and certified seed potatoes.
DEPARTMENTS: BADGER BEAT.................... 30 DISHING IT UP WITH DANA....................... 76
26
46
58
EYES ON ASSOCIATES
BILL AIMS TO SECURE THE AG WORKFORCE
POTATOES USA NEWS
WPVGA Associate Division hosts 3rd Student Career Development Harvest Day
Securing Ag Workforce Act includes H-2A reforms
“Spud Ranch” inspires national chains to explore more potatoes on menus
MARK YOUR CALENDAR...... 6 MARKETPLACE................... 50 NEW PRODUCTS................ 72 NOW NEWS....................... 36 NPC NEWS......................... 68
FEATURE ARTICLES:
PEOPLE.............................. 54
18 NATIONAL CHIP PROGRAM evaluates around 225 new potato varieties each year
PLANTING IDEAS.................. 6
22 REFERENCE WISCONSIN’S complete 2026 Certified Seed Potato Growers Directory
SEED PIECE....................... 62
64 EARLY PLANNING ALLOWS families to protect their farms for the next generation
WPIB FOCUS...................... 52
4
BC�T November
MARSHFIELD, WI
WPVGA Board of Directors: President: Wendy Dykstra Vice President: Josh Knights Secretary: Brian Lee Treasurer: John Hopfensperger Directors: Randy Fleishauer, Charlie Husnick, Andy Schroeder, Jeff Suchon & Lucas Wysocki Wisconsin Potato Industry Board: President: Heidi Alsum-Randall Vice President: Andy Diercks Secretary: Nicola Carey Treasurer: Keith Wolter Directors: Rod Gumz, Charlie Mattek, Jim Okray, Eric Schroeder & Joe Seis WPVGA Associate Division Board of Directors: President: Matt Selenske Vice President: Ethan Olson
Secretary: Melissa Heise Treasurer: Paul Salm Directors: Matthew Hartman, Brady Patoka, Scott Scheer, Morgan Smolarek & Brandon Taylor Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors: President: Andy Schroeder Vice President: Clover Spacek Secretary/Treasurer: Ryan Fassbender Directors: Mitch Mattek & Markus Shafel Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary Board of Directors: President: Jenna Suchon Vice President: Erin Meister Secretary/Treasurer: Samantha Cypher Directors: Jody Baginski, Emily Bustamante, Misti Kinnison & Heidi Schleicher
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
WPVGA Staff: Executive Director: Tamas Houlihan Managing Editor: Joe Kertzman Director of Promotions & Consumer Education: Dana Rady Financial Officer: Karen Rasmussen Executive Assistant: Julie Braun Program Assistant: Madison Hoffman-Taylor Spudmobile Education & Outreach Administrator: Patrick Popejoy
WPVGA Office: (715) 623-7683 • FAX: (715) 623-3176 E-mail: wpvga@wisconsinpotatoes.com Website: www.wisconsinpotatoes.com LIKE US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/WPVGA
Subscription rates: $3.50/copy, $28/year; $45/2 years. Foreign subscription rates: $35/year; $55/2 years. 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 November
5
MARK YOUR
Calendar
NOVEMBER 9-10
WPVGA & UW EXTENSION RESEARCH MEETING Hancock Agricultural Research Station Hancock, WI
15
MADISON MARATHON Capitol Square, Mifflin St. and Wisconsin Ave. Madison, WI
DECEMBER 2-4
POTATOES USA WINTER MEETING Denver, CO
15-16
2026 WISCONSIN WATER & SOIL HEALTH CONFERENCE Kalahari Resort and Convention Center Wisconsin Dells, WI
JANUARY 2027 5-7
2027 POTATO EXPO Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center Denver, CO
FEBRUARY 3
WSPIA ANNUAL SEED MEETING North Star Lanes Antigo, WI
9-11
WPVGA GROWER ED CONFERENCE & INDUSTRY SHOW Holiday Inn & Convention Center Stevens Point, WI
MARCH 3-5
NATIONAL POTATO COUNCIL 2027 WASHINGTON SUMMIT Washington Marriott at Metro Center Washington, D.C.
30-4/1
65th ANNUAL WPS FARM SHOW Experimental Aircraft Association grounds Oshkosh, WI
MAY 22-25
NATIONAL RESTAURANT ASSOC. SHOW McCormick Place Chicago, IL
JUNE 18
WSPIA SPUD SEED CLASSIC GOLF OUTING Bass Lake Golf Course Deerbrook, WI
JULY 7
2027 PUTT-TATO OPEN GOLF OUTING Lake Arrowhead Golf Course Nekoosa, WI
OCTOBER 20-22
6
IFPA GLOBAL PRODUCE & FLORAL SHOW 2027 Georgia World Congress Center Atlanta, GA BC�T November
Planting Ideas I’ve been trying to find space in the “People”
column to note all the 2026 Spudman magazine “Impact Award” winners that were announced way back in February, but I haven’t had room in the magazine. I especially want to congratulate Wisconsin’s own Dr. Amanda Gevens (pictured right), professor and Extension specialist, University of Wisconsin (UW)-Madison Department of Plant Pathology, and administrative director of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program.
Gevens holds the UW-Madison CALS Fritz Friday chair for Vegetable Production Research and is a well-known plant pathogen and disease management expert. She was named among the 2020 Outstanding Women of Wisconsin Agriculture by the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association and received the 2022 UW-Madison CALS Agricultural Research Station research award. “I am proud of the service I’ve provided in my career,” Gevens says. “To me, this includes the students I’ve served through the provision of opportunities and mentorship. They’ve moved into impactful positions in academia, industry, government, and agriculture. This includes the growers and industry partners whom I’ve served through disease management strategies or policy adjustments.” Such a service-forward attitude makes sense, says Melinda Waldrop, managing editor of Spudman, for someone who took to heart lessons learned watching “Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.” Advice that stuck with Gevens included Fred Rogers’ encouragement to be one the world’s helpers when it feels there are none to be found, to address tough topics with gentleness and emotional maturity, and to be cognizant that small acts of care can make a big difference. A long overdue congratulations goes out to Gevens and all the Spudman Impact Award winners, which include Dustin Begovich, president, Idaho Studio; Chris Hansen, CSS Farms general manager, New York; Todd Jensen, vice president of ag operations, Wada Farms; Marcus Meadows-Smith, chief executive officer and founder, BioConsortia, Inc.; Sagar Sathuvalli, professor, Oregon State University; Jay Scheidt, business development manager, Bedford Industries; and Jonathan Whitworth, research plant pathologist, U.S. Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Research Service. 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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NAME: John Mattek TITLE: President COMPANY: J.W. Mattek & Sons, Inc. LOCATION: Deerbrook, WI HOMETOWN: Antigo, WI YEARS IN PRESENT POSITION: Fifty-eight years of farming, 27 years as president PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Hooper Highline Corp. SCHOOLING: University of WisconsinRiver Falls ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS: Past Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association (WSPIA) Board of Directors, Wisconsin Potato Coalition member, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Producer-Led Watershed Protection group member, and Neva Town Board supervisor for 28 years AWARDS/HONORS: Frito-Lay Supplier of the Year, and Frito-Lay recognition for 45 years of partnership FAMILY: Wife, Marsha, married for 51 years; children, Katie, Jill, and Matt (Johnny, a U.S. Marine, was killed in Iraq); and grandchildren, Bryce, Brynn, Bode, Johnna, JordiAnn, Scottie, Johnny and Jones HOBBIES: Being with family and attending grandchildren’s events, and enjoying hunting and fishing, especially with friends of 65 years, Dave and Don 8
BC�T November
Interview JOHN AND JIM MATTEK, Owners/Operators,
J.W. Mattek & Sons, Inc.
By Joe Kertzman, Managing Editor, Badger Common’Tater
Family is what holds together a sixth-generation seed potato farm,
along with hard work, relationship building, knowledge, some luck, lifelong employees, friends, and customers, and the foresight to embrace innovation and pass knowledge down from one generation to the next. That’s according to John and Jim Mattek of J.W. Mattek & Sons in Deerbrook, Wisconsin, located in the heart of the state’s quality
foundation and certified seed potato acreage that also includes Antigo, Bryant, Crandon, Crivitz, Eagle River, and Rhinelander, among other towns
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and regions. Since the 1800’s, farming has been a way of life for the Mattek family. James W. Mattek operated a dairy and potato business. His sons, Eugene and James J. Mattek, concentrated their efforts on potatoes and were early pioneers in the certified seed program. In 1960, the farm became incorporated and continued to raise quality foundation and certified seed potatoes.
James J. Mattek’s sons, John and Jim, currently own and operate the 1,600acre potato farm on a three-year crop rotation with oats and clover. The Mattek’s are always looking for new and promising varieties. Family continues to hold the farm together, including Jim’s son, Charlie, John’s son, Matt, and their nephew, Mitch, becoming integral parts of the multi-generational certified seed potato farm. continued on pg. 10
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Above: It’s “all hands on deck” during seed potato harvest at J.W. Mattek & Sons in Deerbrook, Wisconsin. The photos were taken on September 25, 2026.
NAME: Jim Mattek TITLE: Vice president COMPANY: J.W. Mattek & Sons, Inc. LOCATION: Deerbrook, WI HOMETOWN: Antigo, WI YEARS IN PRESENT POSITION: Fifty years of farming, 27 years as vice president PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Greenheck Fan Corp. SCHOOLING: Northcentral Technical Institute ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS: Past WSPIA Board of Directors, SpudPro Committee member, Wisconsin Potato Coalition member, Wisconsin DATCP Producer-Led Watershed Protection group member, and past director of St. Wencel’s Catholic Church AWARDS/HONORS: Frito-Lay Supplier of the Year, and Frito-Lay recognition for 45 years of partnership
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FAMILY: Wife, Deb, married for 46 years; children, Abby, Erin and Charlie; and grandchildren, Jack, Max, (our special angel, Klare), Ruby, Emily, Gracie, Lilah, and Annie HOBBIES: Family gatherings and attending grandchildren’s events, hunting, fishing, skiing, and all outdoor activities BC�T November
9
Interview. . .
continued from pg. 9
What do you mainly credit for your family’s ability to keep the operation going strong for six generations? Jim: Hard work and keeping up with anything new have kept our operation going strong. John: Excellent family, people and employees keep the operation going strong. As early pioneers in the certified seed program, what did Wisconsin and/or the Matteks do right in
setting up and keeping the program running? John: Wisconsin has very competent and dedicated people running the Seed Potato Certification Program. We always meet with our customers every summer to ensure our seed is producing potato crops that meet high standards. Jim: We have always supported the Seed Potato Certification Program in Wisconsin. We worked closely with the University of Wisconsin
Above: Then and Now: J.W. Mattek & Sons was incorporated in 1960 and continues to raise quality foundation and certified seed potatoes today.
by sharing information that would make it stronger. Do you remember any mistakes that you learned from along the way? Jim: Many, from planting to storage to shipping and harvest, we learned better ways to do them all. Warming and pre-cutting seed, more detailed storage equipment, watching pulp temperatures at harvest, etc., are just a few examples. John: You make mistakes every year, but the key is to learn from them.
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10 BC�T November
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Is J.W. Mattek & Sons still farming 1,600 acres on a three-year rotation with oats and clover? And what varieties of seed potatoes do you raise? John: Yes. Varieties include Snowden, Atlantic, Lamoka, Mackinaw, Manistee, Lady Liberty and five Frito-Lay varieties. Who are your main customers for the certified and foundation seed potatoes grown on the farm? Jim: Our customers are mainly in Michigan and Wisconsin, but we ship to Canada, Ohio, Indiana, Texas, Pennsylvania, New York
and Minnesota. John: And overall, Frito-Lay remains our biggest customer. You’ve maintained long-time customers and relationships. How has J.W. Mattek & Sons been able to keep those customers all these years? John: We strive to provide consistently good, quality seed, and we meet with our customers every year.
“We went from digging by hand to today having two Lenco Harvesters, each digging 12 rows, GPS for planting, bulk seed shipments, pivots and swing-arm pivot irrigation, and sprayers that spray 44 rows at 10 miles per hour.”
– John Mattek
Jim: We have worked closely with our customers, giving them the seed potato varieties they need, and we ship quality seed to them. What are you most proud of regarding the multi-generational foundation seed farm? Jim: I am most proud of how the farm has been passed down over the years, with every generation carrying on what was done before and improving upon it. John is the oldest and the nuts and bolts of the operation. And now with the next generation, my son, Charlie, and nephews, Matt and Mitch, carry on the long family tradition and values.
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John: I am proud of having my son, Matt, and nephews, Charlie and Mitch, joining the farm. I also want to mention my sister, Beth, and Chris Haedike, in our office, who make it a whole lot easier for us to farm. 2009 LENCO 4RSPAH Sale Price: $330,000
What exactly is the difference between certified and foundation seed potatoes? And what are a couple of the key requirements for meeting certified or foundation status? John: Virus levels need to be much lower in foundation-class seed, whereas certified status allows higher virus rates. Regardless of foundation or certified status, our storage buildings are pressure washed, cleaned, and disinfected 3-4 times a year, and of course machinery and implements are cleaned often during the growing season. continued on pg. 12
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BC�T November 11
Interview. . .
continued from pg. 11
Jim: For foundation seed, you are allowed .50% total virus, and to classify as certified seed, it can have up to 5% total virus in the postseason test. Key requirements for seed potato production include having a very good spray program with aphid oil, and strict sanitation measures.
The Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association (WSPIA) is a respected seed association across the country. Why do you think that is? Jim: The WSPIA is where it is today because it has always been at the forefront of the industry, including, most recently, a new greenhouse facility and taking a lead role in Direct Tuber Testing. John: There are excellent people running the Certification Program. Brooke Babler and staff do an outstanding job, and others have in the past, too. What are some of the milestones or major changes over the years in growing certified seed potatoes? John: For one, Brooke Babler has most recently initiated
Above: A Frito-Lay variety of certified seed potatoes is windrowed on a beautiful fall day at J.W. Mattek & Sons in Deerbrook, Wisconsin.
Direct Tuber Testing. Jim: Thinking back, the limited generation system was inspired, as was post-season testing and clean seed from our program. Equipment and technology have come a long way. For example, I picked potatoes by hand, and now we dig 12 rows at a time with one system. Several of the Matteks have been involved in WPVGA and WSPIA boards over the years. Why is it important to be involved in the associations? Jim: I think it is good to be involved in the industry boards
A potato truck takes a Frito-Lay variety of certified seed potatoes from the field to storage. Mitch Mattek handles the storage operation and helps keep the 18 potato trucks running and on schedule between fields and facilities. 12 BC�T November
so that you get to know people from other parts of the industry and their problems and concerns. John: It is important to be on the WPVGA and WSPIA boards to keep informed of Industry issues and to
give your input regarding them. How has the growing season been for you this year? John: This has been a very good growing season. We irrigated every week for eight weeks because we didn’t get rain.
Above: J.W. Mattek & Sons has four potato storage facilities with a total capacity of 628,000 cwt. (hundredweight) of potatoes. The operation can store potatoes until June of the year after harvest. A Frito-Lay variety of certified seed potatoes is shown being put into storage.
continued on pg. 14
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BC�T November 13
Interview. . .
continued from pg. 13
Jim: It was a good planting season with adequate moisture through June, but then the faucet turned off and, like John says, it was dry for eight weeks, causing us to irrigate. It was hot with smoke from Canadian wildfires at times, but the potatoes turned out good. Has it been a good career for you and your family, and why or why
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not? Jim: Yes, it has been a good career. We just like farming and the challenges it brings.
can use change every year. Matt takes care of that part of the operation, and I’m glad he handles the job.
John: My wife and family support what I do and are always ready to help if, and when, needed.
Jim: Of course, we are losing some of our pesticides, and water is always an issue. Right now, it is almost impossible to put in a high capacity well, and environmentalists are keeping an eye on us.
Are regulations threatening the ag industry, or what are the major challenges today compared to years past? John: All regulations are getting tougher to abide by, particularly those regulating chemicals and other crop protection products, for example. And the names of the products and what you
What are some of the advancements that might make farming easier today than it was in the early years? Jim: Planters, electronic graders, GPS harvest equipment, irrigation monitors on your cell phone, and the
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In this early photo, Jim Mattek Jr. hands Gene a hammer, while this issue’s interviewees, Jim III (age 4 in the photo) and John (age 7), and their grandpa, James Sr. (right), look on. The Mattek family was getting the warehouse ready for potato harvest.
list goes on and on. I used to pick potatoes by hand for a neighbor at a rate of 10 cents per bag. I could pick 100 bags and make $10 a day, which was a lot of money for a boy 60 years ago! John: We went from digging by hand to today having two Lenco Harvesters, each digging 12 rows, GPS for planting, bulk seed shipments, pivots and swing-arm
pivot irrigation, and sprayers that spray 44 rows at 10 miles per hour. What do you wish your neighbors or Wisconsin families knew about farmers in the area, and the Matteks in particular? John and Jim: We are farmers who work hard and do our best to produce the highest quality seed possible. We are very proud of our heritage and what we do. What do you hope for the future
Above: Certified seed potatoes are harvested at the J.W. Mattek & Sons home farm.
of the Wisconsin certified seed potato industry? Jim and John: We hope that the Wisconsin certified seed potato industry continues to be the best and provide excellent, high-quality seed to the industry. continued on pg. 16
BC�T November 15
Interview. . .
continued from pg. 15
It takes big tractors to pull the Wilcox Eliminators—tillage machines doing a thorough job on a J.W. Mattek & Sons harvested potato field in two of the images, and an alfalfa field in the third photo.
What do you hope for the future of the farm? John: Hopefully, the next generation, Matt, Charlie and Mitch, and their children, will want to take over the farm someday. Jim: My hope is that our farm will continue to produce the best seed possible for years to come. Is there anything I’ve missed that you’d like to add? Jim: I would like to thank the potato industry and our customers and employees who keep us doing what we do best … growing seed! John: Without our H2A workers and
other employees, I don’t believe we could be doing what we do today, which is growing quality seed. Jim and John: We enjoy talking farming, hunting, life, and sharing laughter with our customers, sometimes over bowls of ice cream! In this world of technology, we feel
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16 BC�T November
this personal service sets us apart. We want to thank our many customers who have trusted us with their seed needs, and we value their friendship over the years. We hope to continue providing quality seed and excellent service for years to come.
RESEARCHERS DEVELOP 5 NEW CHIPPING VARIETIES The National Chip Program evaluates around 225 new potato varieties each year By Kim Ward, Assistant Director of Public Relations, Michigan State University, University Communications and Marketing The potatoes behind America’s potato chips are getting an upgrade. Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) have developed five new potato varieties designed to help strengthen the U.S. chip supply by improving disease resistance, long-term storage, and processing reliability. The varieties—Manistee, Mackinaw, Petoskey, Huron Chipper and
Blackberry—are the result of more than two decades of breeding research led by MSU potato breeder David Douches. Together, they were created to help growers produce potatoes that can remain in storage for months, withstand disease pressure and consistently fry light and crisp, even late in the processing season. “Potato chips are made year-round,
but potatoes are harvested once a year,” says Douches, professor in MSU’s Department of Plant, Soil and Microbial Sciences. “If a variety can’t maintain quality in storage or handle disease pressure, that affects the entire supply chain.” Michigan is widely recognized as the nation’s leading producer of potatoes grown specifically for potato chips. Roughly 70% of the state’s potato
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crop is destined for chip processing, and industry estimates suggest that about one in four bags of potato chips eaten in the United States contains Michigan-grown potatoes. Because chip production operates year-round, storage performance is critical. Potatoes must maintain low sugar levels and structural integrity for up to eight months to ensure consistent color and flavor when fried. Breakdowns during storage can result in significant losses for growers and processors. That’s where these five varieties come in: • Manistee helped establish a benchmark for long-term storage, maintaining excellent chip quality deep into the processing season. Building on that foundation, newer varieties add additional layers of resilience. continued on pg. 20
Dave Douches, director of Michigan State University’s Potato Breeding and Genetics Program, holds a potato chip in his hand during a taste-testing. Photo courtesy of Mike Householder, Associated Press
SNOWDEN • ATLANTIC • LAMOKA MANISTEE • MACKINAW • PETOSKEY
Contact: Jim or John
BC�T November 19
Researchers Develop 5 New Chipping Varieties. . . continued from pg. 19
• Mackinaw combines strong storage stability with resistance to Potato Virus Y and late blight, two major threats to potato crops worldwide. • Petoskey produces starch-rich potatoes that fry crisp and absorb less oil, while also resisting
common scab and maintaining chip color in storage. • Huron Chipper offers strong yield potential, adaptability across growing regions and improved late blight resistance. • Blackberry, a purple-skinned and
Left: The Mackinaw variety combines strong storage stability with resistance to Potato Virus Y and late blight, two major threats to potato crops worldwide. Right: A purple-skinned and purple-fleshed variety, Blackberry expands MSU’s breeding portfolio into the fresh and specialty market while carrying extreme resistance to Potato Virus Y.
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purple-fleshed variety, expands MSU’s breeding portfolio into the fresh and specialty market while carrying extreme resistance to Potato Virus Y. “You can’t rely on a single variety,” Douches says. “Different climates, disease pressures and storage conditions require different strengths. Having multiple varieties spreads risk and keeps the supply stable.”
“These potatoes are about resilience. Every resistance trait we build into a variety is one less vulnerability in the system.”
– David Douches, MSU Potato Breeder
Modern potato breeding requires balancing yield, processing quality, storage life and disease resistance, traits that are often difficult to combine. “These potatoes are about resilience,” Douches explains. “Every resistance trait we build into a variety is one less vulnerability in the system.” The varieties were evaluated through multiyear field trials in Michigan and national testing programs across major potatoproducing states. As certified seed production expands and commercial acreage increases, their impact is moving from research plots into farmers’ fields and processing plants. “As a public university breeding program, our mission is to support the entire industry,” Douches states. “Success means growers can stay competitive and consumers can rely on a consistent product.” For a snack that millions of Americans reach for every day, the science behind the potato plays a larger role than most people realize. “Potatoes may look simple,” Douches concludes. “But breeding them to meet modern demands is anything but.” This research was funded by the Michigan Potato Industry Commission, the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, and by Potatoes USA. BC�T November 21
2026 WISCONSIN CERTIFIED SEED POTATO GROWERS DIRECTORY Above: Cut seed is loaded at Mortenson Bros. Farms Inc. of Plainfield, Wisconsin.
PRIMARY BUSINESS PHONE NUMBERS ARE BOLD-FACED. BAGINSKI FARMS, INC. N3502 County H, Antigo, WI 54409 Office/Farm (715) 627-7753 (715) 623-5412 Fax Mike Baginski Cell 715-216-1240 Charlie Husnick Cell 715-216-3222 Mike Email mike@baginskifarms.com Charlie Email charlie@baginskifarms.com Website www.baginskifarms.com Acclimate, Caribou Russet, Colomba, Goldrush, Modoc, Norland (Red Selection), Reveille Russet, Silverton BULA POTATO FARMS, INC. Shipping Address: W8376 County Road K, Elcho, WI 54428 Billing Address: W11957 Highland Rd., Antigo, WI 54409 Office/Warehouse 715-275-3430 Office/Warehouse FAX 715-275-5051 Dennis Bula Cell 715-216-1614 Adam Bula Cell 715-216-1613 Farm Email: bulaseed@frontiernet.net Dennis Bula Email: dennis@certifiedseedpotatoes.com A12327-5VR, Caribou Russet, Galena Russet, Lakeview Russet (W9433-1rus), Norland (Dark Red Selection), Mackinaw, Reveille Russet, Silverton, Yukon Gold, W20096-17rus BUSHMAN’S RIVERSIDE RANCH, INC. N8151 Bushman Rd., Crivitz, WI 54114 Farm (Crivitz, WI) 715-757-2160 Jeff Suchon 715-927-4015 Jared Suchon 715-927-3463 22 BC�T November
John E 715-454-6201 Email: bushmanriversideranch@gmail.com A08433-4STO, CO15016-1RUSto, C016238-4RU, CO130031RU, Rainier, Caribou Russet, Reveille Russet, Mountain Gem, Silverton EAGLE RIVER SEED FARM LLC 4330 Chain O’ Lakes Rd, Eagle River, WI 54521 Clover Spacek, General Manager Office/Warehouse (715) 628-2198 ext. 5 Clover Spacek Cell (715) 218-9173 Email clover.spacek@wfc.ag AF6565-8, Bliss (NY163), Caribou Russet, Challenger, Christel, Colomba, Dundee, Frito-Lay Varieties, Fontane, Huron Chipper, Lakeview Russet (W9433-1rus), Lamoka, Mackinaw, Modoc, NY-177, Petoskey, Red LaSoda 10-3, Reveille Russet, Samoa, Snowden, Umatilla Russet, W17066-34 DAVID FLEISCHMAN FARMS N2568 Cty Hwy HH, Antigo, WI 54409 Office (715) 623-6353 Fax (715) 627-0183 (715) 216-2343 Cell Email davidfleischmanfarms@gmail.com Norland (Dark Red Selection), Russet Norkotah, Silverton, Superior PEPSICO AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 4295 Tenderfoot Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Office 715-365-1648 Stephanie Nordquist 715-360-0454 Frito-Lay Varieties
GP VENTURES, INC. N3120 Western Ave PO Box 320, Antigo, WI 54409 Office (715) 623-7877 Jim Kennedy (715) 623-7877 Email gpci.office.assistant@gmail.com Frito-Lay Varieties, Paige, Petoskey GUENTHNER FARMS, INC. N4653 Chillie Rd, Antigo, WI 54409 Farm (715) 627-7683 Bill Guenthner (715) 610-7683 Fax (715) 627-0507 Christel, Langlade, Red LaSoda 10-3 HAFNER SEED FARMS, INC. W8243 County B, Bryant, WI 54418 David Hafner (715) 216-1473 Kevin Hafner (715) 216-1606 Brad Hafner (715) 216-1603 Email khafner1@hotmail.com Atlantic, Goldrush, Lady Liberty (NY-152), Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah, Silverton, Snowden, Superior
HARTMAN FARMS, INC. N2846 County HH, Antigo, WI 54409 Michael Hartman Home (715) 623-7083 Michael Hartman Cell (715) 219-1802 Todd Hartman (715) 610-6477 John Hartman (715) 216-2059 Norland (Dark Red Selection), Norland (Red Selection), Russet Norkotah, Superior KAKES FARMS, LTD. W8539 Kakes Road, Bryant, WI 54418 Farm (715) 623-6348 Aaron Kakes Cell 715-216-5281 Josh Mattek Cell 715-216-0595 Email: kakesfarms@outlook.com Atlantic, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lady Liberty (NY-152), Mackinaw, NY-117, Petoskey, Red LaSoda 10-3, Snowden KOHM AND SPYCHALLA, LLC N4244 Hwy 52, Antigo, WI 54409 Dr. Barbel Kohm (715) 623-5773 Dr. James Spychalla (715) 216-7449 Atlantic, C015016-1RuSto, Langlade, Lamoka, Petoskey continued on pg. 24
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2026 Seed Directory. . . continued from pg. 23
J. W. MATTEK & SONS, INC. N5798 Star Neva Rd, Deerbrook, WI 54424 Farm/Office (715) 623-6963 Fax (715) 627-7245 (715) 216-0599 Jim Mattek John Mattek (715) 216-0592 Matt Mattek (715) 216-3383 Charlie Mattek (715) 216-4264 Mitch Mattek (715) 216-5404 Email jwmattek@gmail.com Atlantic, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lady Liberty (NY-152), Lamoka, Mackinaw, Manistee, Petoskey, Snowden
RINE RIDGE FARMS, INC. W8132 County O, Bryant, WI 54418 (715) 627-4819 Farm/Office WATS (888) 853-5690 Fax (715) 627-4810 Dan Rine Cell (715) 216-0765 Email rinerdg21@gmail.com Lady Liberty (NY-152), Lamoka, Mackinaw, Petoskey
MYTHIC FARMS/VERMONT VALLEY 4628 CTH FF, Blue Mounds, WI 53517 608-212-7816 Jesse Perkins Email jesse@mythicfarm.com www.mythicfarm.com Website Adirondack Blue, German Butterball, Goldrush, Kennebec, Magic Molly, Michel Bras R15-4, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Oneida Gold (W6703-1Y), Red Prairie (W8405-1R), Stella Gold (W13103-2Y), Superior, Valley Rose, Yukon Gold
SCHROEDER BROS. FARMS, INC./SCHROEDER FARMS, LTD. N1435 County D, Antigo, WI 54409 Office/Farm (715) 623-2689 Fax (715) 627-4857 North Farm (715) 627-7022 John T. Schroeder (715) 216-0174 Pete Schroeder (715) 216-0177 Robert Schroeder (715) 216-0169 (715) 216-0186 Eric Schroeder Cell Pete Email farm@sbfi.biz John T Email johnt@sbfi.biz eric@sbfi.biz Eric Email Atlantic, Bliss (NY-1630, Blushing Belle (HO2000), Caribou Russet, Dundee, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lamoka, Mackinaw, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Petoskey, Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah Sel 8, Russet Norkotah TX296, Silverton, Snowden
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SEIDL FARMS, INC. N5677 Chillie Road, Deerbrook, WI 54424 Farm/Office (715) 623-6236 Fax (715) 623-4377 Art Seidl (715) 623-6236 Jeff Fassbender (715) 216-4433 Ryan Fassbender (715) 219-2014 Atlantic, Goldrush, Manistee, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah, Snowden SOWINSKI FARMS, INC. - CERTIFIED SEED 4698 Tenderfoot Road, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Farm/Office (715) 272-1192 Paul Sowinski (715) 401-0415 Email seed@sowinskifarms.com Atlantic, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lady Liberty (NY-152), Manistee, Petoskey, Snowden SUNNYDALE FARMS, INC. W9751 County I, Bryant, WI 54418 (715) 627-7401 Farm/Office Mike Shafel Cell (715) 216-4531 Markus Shafel 715-216-0278 Email sunnydaleseed@yahoo.com Atlantic, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Red Prairie (W8405-1R), Snowden
TREMBLING PRAIRIE FARMS, INC N2575 County Road B, Markesan, WI 53946 John Bobek 920-295-9072 Fax 920-394-3926 Ciklamen, Constance, Lucera WILD SEED FARMS, INC. W9797 Cherry Rd, Antigo, WI 54409 Warehouse/Office (715) 623-3366 Fax (715) 623-5245 Tom Wild Cell (715) 216-1223 Dan Wild Cell (715) 216-1225 Email wildseed8@gmail.com Atlantic, Frito-Lay Varieties, Red LaSoda 10-3 WIRZ, INC. N3581 Wirz Lane, Antigo, WI 54409 Office-Angel Wirz (715) 627-7739 Fax (715) 627-4523 (715) 350-9165 Mobile wirzinc@yahoo.com Email www.wirzinc.com Website Atlantic, Lamoka, Manistee, Snowden
BC�T November 25
Eyes on Associates By WPVGA Associate Div. President Matt Selenske, Allied Coop’s Pest Pros Division
Hello, everyone. By this point, most of the crops are harvested with maybe a few corn and soybean acres left out there (and probably a ton of carrots!), but now planning for the next season really starts. It’s time to evaluate what worked well in 2026 and make tweaks to the program while everything is fresh in mind. On September 24, the Associate Division of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) hosted the 3rd Annual Student Career Development Fall Harvest Day as part of an ambitious
program designed to showcase the potato and vegetable industry to high school, technical college and university students interested in agriculture. Over 50 technical college and high school students attended a daylong field trip designed to showcase careers in the potato and vegetable industry. Students met at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station and were transported to Gumz Farms just west of Coloma. Richard and Jacalynn Gumz and Kalie Christensen treated the participants
to demonstrations of potato and onion harvest at Gumz Farms and gave them a tour of the onion storage. Everyone was amazed at the high organic soil and how productive it can be. The next stop was Grand Marsh, where the group experienced pumpkin harvest at an Alsum Farms & Produce field full of jack-o-lantern pumpkins that were being picked for the grading shed to fill orders that day. Harvest includes so much hand labor! Megan Wallendal welcomed students
Megan Wallendal explains how pumpkins are sized and sorted at the Alsum Farms Pumpkin Division in Grand Marsh. 26 BC�T November
to the pumpkin grading and packing facility. There, she and her husband, Eric, provided a tour of the shed. One of the key takeaways was how hard they work at traceability and food safety to meet customer demands. CAREERS & CAREER PATHS The group then headed back to the research station for lunch and a short
roundtable discussion about careers and career paths with a few industry professionals. While eating lunch, students enjoyed a roundtable discussion with agribusiness professionals from the WPVGA, Swiderski Equipment, Pest Pros, a division of Allied continued on pg. 28
Left: Students participating in the WPVGA Student Career Development Fall Harvest Day witnessed red onion harvest in the high-organic muck soil of a Gumz Farms field located between Arkdale and Coloma, Wisconsin. Right: Pumpkin grading and packing at Alsum Farms & Produce is a fast-paced affair, which high school and technical college students experienced first-hand, September 24, in Grand Marsh.
BC�T November 27
Eyes On Associates. . . continued from pg. 27
Above: Richard Gumz (right) describes the onion harvest operation at Gumz Farms to students attending the Career Development Fall Harvest Day. Right: Kalie Christensen of Gumz Farms shows students an onion and carrot recently harvested on the farm.
Cooperative, and TH Agrichemicals. Panel participants detailed career opportunities in the Wisconsin potato and vegetable growing industry as well as their own career paths. The Student Career Development Potato Storage - Bryan Bula Farms
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Fall Harvest Day was a resounding success, and we will keep the momentum going at the 2027 Grower Education Conference & Industry Show, February 9-11, at the Stevens Point Holiday Inn & Convention Center, by hosting more students who want to learn about our industry. Speaking of which, I want to remind Industry Show exhibitors to submit proposals for the Bringing Value to Agriculture breakout session to be held on Tuesday, February 9. It is a great chance to get your company’s message as well as product and service offerings in front of a large group of growers and other industry professionals.
Pumpkins are loaded into a trailer by hand at an Alsum Farms & Produce field in Grand Marsh.
Companies that submit proposals and are ultimately chosen to present during the Bringing Value to Agriculture breakout session will be given a chance to discuss products and services that they offer to growers. More information will be available in the weekly Tater Talk e-newsletter, or by contacting Julie Braun directly at jbraun@wisconsinpotatoes.com. Have a safe hunting season and a Happy Thanksgiving!
Matt Selenske
WPVGA Associate Division President
Matt Selenske addresses students as part of a career roundtable discussion at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station.
NORTH DAKOTA CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES
BC�T November 29
Badger Beat Direct Tuber Testing:
How it continues to evolve Wisconsin seed potato certification diagnostics By Brooke Babler, Assistant Research Program Director of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program (WSPCP), and Dr. Amanda Gevens, Professor and Extension Specialist, University of Wisconsin (UW)-Madison Department of Plant Pathology, and Administrative Director of the WSPCP
For as long as many can remember, the post-harvest
Above: The Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program team cores tubers as part of the direct tuber testing (DTT) process.
Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification and Potato Leafroll Virus (PLRV) and follow up with ELISA (enzyme-linked Program (WSPCP) inspectors assess immunosorbent assay) leaf testing the foliage of plants generated from if needed. seed tuber samples during the growout for symptoms associated with Plants are also assessed for 11-26 Badger Common'Tater (7.25x2.25).v1.pdf 1 2026-10-05 10:18 am diseases such as Potato Virus Y (PVY) physiological and chemical issues,
as well as varietal mixtures that could affect seed lot certification.
grow-out has been an integral part of certifying seed potatoes across the United States.
30 BC�T November
Over the past decade, researchers have explored alternative approaches to post-harvest testing that do not require seed lots to be grown out.
Direct tuber testing (DTT), first trialed primary diagnostic approach in 2013. Figure 1: Wisconsin seed growers ranked DTT as their preferred post-harvest testing in Wisconsin in 2016, has become Switzerland introduced DTT in 2013 option, followed by greenhouse Hawaii Figure 1: Wisconsin seed growers ranked DTT as their preferred post-harvest testing option, followed and by greenhouse an an important molecular pathogen and later adopted the practice in grow-out options. Hawaii grow-out options. diagnostic tool serving the U.S. 2016. potato industry and beyond. In 2016, our WSPCP, along with DTT gained traction in the United What Is Direct Tuber Testing? the certification programs of Idaho 2015, when a PVY Toinvolves provideremoving flexibilitya in post-harvest States, testing,intraditional diagnostic methods,and including greenhouse or Hawaii DTT small Colorado, joined Dr. Zidack andgrow-out Immunocapture Polymerase Chain followed by visual portion of tuber tissueinspection (coring) or ELISA leaf testing, remain available and supported Pilgeramby to WSPCP. further advance DTT Reaction (PVY IC-PCR) assay was which is then subjected to molecular research and validation for broader developed by Dr. Nina Zidack and biological processes post-harvest for detection of In the upcoming season, Wisconsin seed lots will be tested using one or a combination of these methods, adoption. Alice Pilgeram at Montana State oneestablishing or more pathogens. a hybrid diagnostic approach that provides flexibility while supporting the continued adoption and University as a diagnostic research Since then, DTT has remained a This process provides expansion of DTT. earlier critical research focus of the WSPCP component of a larger national acquisition of diagnostic results and has been generously supported Specialty Crop Research Initiative than methods, So,traditional what is around theenables corner for DTT? What areas of DTT research are WSPCP staff pursuing to ensure that Wisconsin' (SCRI) project. continued on pg. 32 detection of non-visual pathogens,
potato industry continues to be an innovative leader in potato production? Let's look at how DTT has evolved in
provides an alternative testing option Wisconsin over the past decade and where research is headed next. to the post-harvest grow-out, aligns U.S. diagnostic services with those used in other potato-producing countries, and can streamline testing and reduce costs.
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As more certification programs integrate DTT, an advanced hybrid diagnostic network combining DTT with traditional methods, including the post-harvest grow-out and ELISA leaf testing has emerged. These complementary approaches provide greater diagnostic flexibility and strengthen the nation’s ability to detect and manage important seed potato pathogens early in production. History of Direct Tuber Testing In the late 1990s, the concept of DTT was introduced in Canada, including Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, and was subsequently validated and implemented as a diagnostic tool. In 2009, the Netherlands introduced DTT and after a four-year validation period, the country adopted it as their
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BC�T November 31
This difference highlights the substantial challenge of detecting asympt potato varieties and emerging PVY strains using visual inspections. Badger Beat. . .
continued from pg. 31
by seed potato growers and industry partners. In 2026, the WSPCP officially adopted DTT as an approved post-harvest diagnostic tool for seed lot certification following an official voting process. A 2026 Wisconsin seed potato grower survey indicated that DTT was the preferred post-harvest testing option, while growers also supported greenhouse and Hawaii grow-out options as additional approaches (Figure 1). To provide flexibility in post-harvest testing, traditional diagnostic methods, including greenhouse or Hawaii grow-out followed by visual inspection or ELISA leaf testing, remain available and supported by WSPCP. In the upcoming post-harvest season, Wisconsin seed lots will be tested using one or a combination of these methods, establishing a hybrid diagnostic approach that provides flexibility while supporting the continued adoption and expansion of DTT. So, what is around the corner for DTT? What areas of DTT research are WSPCP staff pursuing to ensure that
Figure 2: Mean percentage of PVY detected in 99 400-tuber samples is
Figure 2: Mean percentage of PVY detected Wisconsin's potato industry continues (pink bar), IC-PCR (green bar), and visual field inspection (blue bar). in 99 400-tuber samples is shown using to be an innovative leader in potato three diagnostic methods: ELISA (pink production? Let's look at how DTT bar), IC-PCR (green bar), and visual field has evolved in Wisconsin over the inspection (blue bar). In year two, compared past decade and we where research isExtraction-PCR, a highly sensitive DTT metho headed from next. tuber tissue and detects it using PCR, without the immunocapture detectIC-PCR, PVY in 400-tuber seed potato comparison of two DTT approaches: used primarily for PVY det Three-Year Diagnostic samples. IC-PCR uses the same Comparison Study to detect a wide range of potatoantibody pathogens (Figure 3). capture principle as ELISA A large-scale, three-year PVY but couples it with PCR, providing a comparative study initiated in more sensitive PVYthan specific detection ELISA detected significantly lower levels of PVY both DTT approach Wisconsin in 2023 evaluated method. 400-tuber samples. This lower detection rate can be correlated with a 6 immunocapture polymerase chain In year one, IC-PCR and ELISA reaction (IC-PCR), ELISAtubers leaf testing, resulting in many not being assayed for PVY. detected similar levels of PVY in 99 and visual field inspections to 400-tuber samples selected from the No significant differences were observed between post-harvest grow-out,the withtwo bothDTT method methods detecting significantly significant differences between ELISA and the DTT methods in a subset more PVY than visual inspections methods similarly detected PVY, supporting continued advancement an (Figure 2).
This difference highlights the substantial challenge of detecting asymptomatic PVY infections, particularly with newer potato varieties and emerging PVY strains using visual inspections. In year two, we compared ExtractionPCR, a highly sensitive DTT method that extracts pathogen genetic material directly from tuber tissue and detects it using PCR, without the immunocapture step used in Figure 3: A flow chart illustrates the procedures for the two direct tuber testing (DTT) methods evaluated in IC-PCR. the threeFigure 3: A flow chart illustrates the procedures for the two direct tuber testing (DTT) This provides a stronger comparison year comparison PVY-specific immunocapture PCR immunocapture (IC-PCR) and broad-spectrum Extraction-PCR for pathogen methods evaluated instudy: the three-year comparison study: PVY-specific PCR (IC-PCR) and broad-spectrum Extraction-PCR for pathogen detection. continued on pg. 34 detection. 32 BC�T November
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of two DTT approaches: IC-PCR, used primarily for PVY detection, and Extraction-PCR, which can be adapted to detect a wide range of potato pathogens (Figure 3). ELISA detected significantly lower levels of PVY than both DTT approaches (IC-PCR and ExtractionPCR) in a subset of 119 400-tuber samples. This lower detection rate can be correlated with a 60% plant emergence during the Hawaii growout, resulting in many tubers not being assayed for PVY. No significant differences were observed between the two DTT methods. Like year 1, year 3 results showed no significant differences between ELISA and the DTT methods in a subset of 216 400-tuber samples. Additionally, both DTT methods similarly detected PVY, supporting continued advancement and expanded application of DTT. PVY DTT Certification Diagnostic Laboratory Ring Test In spring 2026, our WSPCP led a collaborative PVY DTT ring test involving six U.S. seed potato certification laboratories. Each
Figure4: 4: Blue indicate agreement andindicate red dots indicate differing results betwee Figure Blue dotsdots indicate agreement and red dots differing results between occurred as samples approached the PCR cutoff for positive and negative results. laboratories. Greater variation occurred as samples approached the PCR cutoff for positive and negative results.
laboratory asMultiple both a Pathogen Detection sites and using the same 10-tuber Expandingserved DTT for “source” and “receiving” lab. composite structure as the source To increase testing efficiency and help reduce diagnostic costs, WSPCP staff are deve laboratory. IC-PCR results for each detecting pathogens in a single PCR reaction. As a sourcemultiple laboratory, staff collected, 50-tuber batch were then directly cored, and tested five batches compared between the source and of 50 tubers eachmultiplex using 10-tuber A PVY and PLRV Extraction-PCR assay has been successfully developed, wit receiving laboratories. composites, detection ofthen bothdistributed pathogenseach in 10-, 25-, and 50-tuber composites. Additional validat 50-tuber batch to the other five Agreement between individual participating laboratories. laboratories fromblackleg pathogens, in In parallel, a multiplex detection of bacterial ring rotranged (BRR) and 88.7–94.7% when comparing Each receiving laboratory re-cored Pectobacterium spp., as well as other diagnostic relevant pathogens such as Potato S their test results from the same their received 50-tuber sample, Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV) is being evaluated. collecting tissue from the same tuber samples (Figure 4). Greater variation occurred at lower virus Through partnerships with Colorado State University and Montana State University, concentrations, near the detection developed and validated to improve detection of necrotic limit of the assay. PVY strains associated with
These findings Expanding the number of pathogens detectable withindemonstrated a single assayais an important high level of consistency among to meet the g control diagnostic costs and labor while enabling certification agencies laboratories, while identifying testing. opportunities for further protocol harmonization. A second ring test DTT Accuracy: Determining the Appropriate Tuberunderway Warmingto Period is currently continue This fall, our WSPCP is evaluating changes in virus titer following optimizing the process. harvest to determin three-week warming period, established from initial tuber warming research conduc Expanding DTT for Multiple appropriate testing window. Pathogen Detection To increase testing efficiency and Four-hundred-tuber samples representing multiple market classes will be tested at h help reduce diagnostic costs, WSPCP same 10-tuber composite at two, three, and five weeks after harvest. PVY infection p staff are developing multiplex each testing event to help establish theassays most appropriate warmingmultiple period for DTT. capable of detecting pathogens in a single PCR reaction. The Future of DTT A PVY and PLRV multiplex ExtractionPCR assay has been successfully developed, with initial validation 34 BC�T November
confirming detection of both pathogens in 10-, 25-, and 50-tuber composites. Additional validation is underway. In parallel, a multiplex detection of bacterial ring rot (BRR) and blackleg pathogens, including Dickeya and Pectobacterium spp., as well as other diagnostic relevant pathogens such as Potato Spindle Tuber Viroid (PSTVd) and Potato Mop Top Virus (PMTV) is being evaluated. Through partnerships with Colorado State University and Montana State University, a rapid multiplex assay is also being developed and validated to improve detection of necrotic PVY strains associated with yield loss and poor tuber quality.
technology, improving consistency among laboratories, and expanding its diagnostic capabilities. Rather than replacing traditional methods, DTT can complement post-harvest grow-outs followed by visual inspection or ELISA to create a flexible and comprehensive diagnostic system. The WSPCP greatly appreciates the continued support of Wisconsin seed potato growers, commercial
growers, and industry partners, whose participation and collaboration have been instrumental in advancing this research and evaluating DTT for practical application. Through their support, along with collaboration among certification programs, DTT advancements can remain focused on supporting accurate, efficient, and adaptable certification diagnostic tools for the nation’s potato industry.
Expanding the number of pathogens detectable within a single assay is an important step in advancing DTT, helping control diagnostic costs and labor while enabling certification agencies to meet the growing demand for pathogen testing. DTT Accuracy: Determining the Appropriate Tuber Warming Period This fall, our WSPCP is evaluating changes in virus titer following harvest to determine whether the current two-to-three-week warming period, established from initial tuber warming research conducted in 2023, remains the most appropriate testing window. Four-hundred-tuber samples representing multiple market classes will be tested at harvest, with followup testing of the same 10-tuber composite at two, three, and five weeks after harvest. PVY infection percentages will be compared across each testing event to help establish the most appropriate warming period for DTT. The Future of DTT DTT has advanced substantially over the past decade and is increasingly being incorporated into U.S. seed potato certification programs. Ongoing research is focused on validating and refining the BC�T November 35
Now News
“Rooted in Gratitude” Raises More Than $320,000 Food + Farm Exploration Center celebration honors women making an impact The Food + Farm Exploration Center in Plover, Wisconsin, welcomed 176 guests, on September 17, 2026, for its inaugural “Rooted in Gratitude” fundraising dinner and celebration, raising more than $320,000 to advance the organization’s mission of increasing agricultural literacy through hands-on education and experiences. “Rooted in Gratitude was created to celebrate the people who make agriculture so important to our communities while also supporting the work we do every day,” says Alexandria Behrend, executive director of Food + Farm Exploration Center. “To see so many people come together for our first event was incredibly meaningful.”
Somers, Plover River Farms Alliance A centerpiece of the evening was the recognition of the inaugural Rooted in Gratitude honorees, celebrating women whose leadership and contributions are making an impact on Wisconsin agriculture: •A g Education Champion Honoree: Heidi Slinkman, Gaynor Cranberry Company & Cranberry Learning Inc. •A g-Innovator Honoree: Jill Albanese, Wisconsin State Fair •C ommunity Catalyst Honoree: Jill Makovec, Learfield/Brownfield Ag News & Wisconsin Radio Network • L egacy Leader Honoree: Dianne
• Sustainability Steward Honoree: Sara Stelter, Stelter Farms • Emerging Ag Leader Honorees: Wendy Dykstra and Heidi Randall, co-chief operating officers of Alsum Farms & Produce. The celebration coincided with the United Nations International Year of the Woman Farmer, providing an opportunity to recognize women whose leadership, innovation and commitment are helping shape the future of agriculture. “The generosity we experienced throughout the evening was remarkable,” says Amy Wiernik, donor development director at Food + Farm Exploration Center.
Above: Food + Farm Exploration Center Executive Director Alexandria Behrend (center) presents the “Emerging Ag Leaders” awards to sisters Wendy Dykstra (left) and Heidi Alsum-Randall (right), co-chief operating officers of Alsum Farms & Produce. Dykstra serves as the first female president of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Board of Directors. Her leadership on national boards and commitment to environmental stewardship through the Healthy Grown Program make her a vital leader for the future. Alsum-Randall is the first woman to serve as president of the Wisconsin Potato Industry Board. With over 15 years on industry promotions committees, she is widely respected for building consensus and advocating for sustainable farming practices. 36 BC�T November
“Raising more than $320,000 at our inaugural event demonstrates the commitment our donors and supporters have to agricultural education and will help us continue creating meaningful opportunities for people to connect with agriculture.”
Left: WPVGA Hall of Fame member Dianne Somers (right) was honored with the “Legacy Leader” award during the Rooted in Gratitude fundraiser and celebration. Co-owner of Plover River Farms Alliance alongside her husband, Nick (center), Dianne has devoted over five decades to advancing Wisconsin agriculture through farming, environmental stewardship and leadership. She is a founding member of the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary, and she co-founded the annual Spud Bowl scholarship fundraiser. Dianne and Nick’s son, Doug Somers, is seated at left. Right: Hiedi Slinkman, business manager of Gaynor Cranberry Company & Cranberry Learning Inc., took home the Ag Education Champion award for her agricultural advocacy. continued on pg. 38
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Now News. . .
continued from pg. 37
The Food + Farm Exploration Center extends its appreciation to the sponsors whose support helped make the inaugural Rooted in Gratitude possible:
Alacrity Wealth Advisors; Al and Kim Wondzell; Heartland Farms, Inc.; Seneca Foods Foundation; Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association Promotions Committee;
Left: Alexandria Behrend (left) and Kathleen O’Leary (right) of the Food + Farm Exploration Center present Jill Albanese with the Ag-Innovator award. Albanese has spent more than two decades with the Wisconsin State Fair and created transformative public programs like the Century Farm Program and the Wisconsin Products Pavilion. Right: Alexandria Behrend (left) honors Jill Makovec, Learfield/Brownfield Ag News and Wisconsin Radio Network, with the Community Catalyst award for her career connecting consumers and producers through agricultural communications, advocacy, and youth mentorship. Makovec is a former Alice in Dairyland and Fairest of the Fair.
Joe and Cindy Kinsella; Progressive Ag; Prevail Bank; Alsum Farms & Produce; BMO; CoVantage Credit Union; E-Con Electric, Inc.; Mike and Kathy Gasik; Old National Bank; Paper City Savings Bank; Volm Companies; Wisconsin Agri Women; Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board; Ellingson Companies; Dan and Julie Merk; Ruder Ware; Simplicity Credit Union; Streich Equipment Co., Inc.; Gerald and Dorothy Volm Foundation, Inc.; General Beverage; Illinois Foundation Seeds, Inc. (IFSI); and M3 Insurance. The Food + Farm Exploration Center also recognizes Daisy Lounge, JR 38 BC�T November
Liquor, Sky Club Supper Club and True Harvest Bourbon for their inkind contributions and beverage support. The Center thanks all donors, committee members, volunteers, honorees and guests whose generosity and participation contributed to the evening’s success. Rooted in Gratitude will return in 2027, with next year’s celebration recognizing Wisconsin Centennial Farms and the families whose agricultural legacies have endured for generations. About Food + Farm Exploration Center The Food + Farm Exploration Center is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to advancing agricultural literacy and inspiring curiosity about the journey of food from field to fork. Through immersive exhibits, hands-on learning, and community events, the Center connects people of all ages to the science, technology, and people behind agriculture. To learn more, visit https://explorefoodandfarm.org. continued on pg. 40
Alexandria Behrend presents Sara Stelter (right), Stelter Farms, with the Sustainability Steward award as sole operator of a 900-acre crop and beef farm. Stelter is a passionate advocate for soil health, cover cropping, and contour farming in sandy soils.
Atlantic • Goldrush • Manistee Reveille • Snowden
BC�T November 39
Now News. . .
continued from pg. 39
Rock River Laboratory Celebrates 50 Years Laboratory network serves the living and growing needs of agriculture From a small farm in Watertown, Wisconsin, to a global agriculture industry driver, Rock River Laboratory is honoring its 50 years of incorporation. Since its inception in July 1976, the family-run laboratory
network has developed a rich history, with a story rooted in serving and advancing agriculture. “Rock River Laboratory was born out of a need for soil analysis in southern Wisconsin, and we quickly became a
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crucial part of the recommendations our agronomist and retailer customers were providing farmers,” shares Don Meyer, Rock River Laboratory founder. “Our local river’s name is now synonymous with quality analysis, agronomic and animal nutrition support, and a highly advanced knowledge base, internationally,” Meyer states. Spurred by local retailer requests, Don and his wife, Karen, along with his parents, Bill and Marge Meyer, established the soil analysis laboratory on their family’s farm. Their focus was quality and accuracy, founded on values, ethics, and a desire to help others with honesty and integrity. By 1979, the laboratory expanded to include feed and forage analysis. The very first laboratory to adopt NearInfrared (NIR) analysis technology, Rock River Laboratory helped push the envelope of incorporating
innovative technologies and progressive techniques, a theme that continues today. Amidst many inaugural moments, including the first robotic systems for soil organic matter and pH testing, and the first laboratory to offer comprehensive nutrient management planning services with on-staff planners helping Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs), the experienced team remains focused and steadfast on prioritizing exceptional customer service. GROW & EVOLVE Under the guidance of Don, followed by the second generation of family leaders—Zachery Meyer and Lauren Ebert—the laboratory continues to grow and evolve. Rock River Laboratory’s family of brands spans North America, and associate laboratories that seek to provide the
the integrity and values of our brand,” he says.
same quality and supported analysis to their regions cover the globe. The entire Rock River Laboratorysupported network can be viewed at https://rockriverlab.com/pages/ Laboratory-Locations.php. “Our customers throughout the world constantly motivate us to find universal solutions that continue the innovation and service Rock River Laboratory was founded on,” Zachery, Rock River Laboratory chief executive officer, explains. “Our experienced, expert team is paramount to empowering those customers through advancements in agricultural science while preserving
On the cusp of uniting agronomicand animal nutrition-focused sciences, the laboratory continues to bridge the gap between these sectors of the industry, fueled by ongoing, barrier-breaking research. Regular contributors to the American Dairy Science Association (ADSA) Annual Meeting research abstracts, the organization supports and fuels research and development projects with industry leader partnerships, pouring time and resources into the industry. Ultimately, the goal remains the same as that in 1976: to help farmers achieve success. Read more about Rock River Laboratory, research, and the complete 50-year history at https:// rockriverlab.com/pages/About.php. continued on pg. 42
As we count our many blessings, we are thankful for all you do. You make us who we are. We wish you and your family a holiday filled with As we count our many blessings, gratitude and laughter. we are thankful happiness, for all you do. You
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Now News. . .
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New Age Farming Launches DNA-Based Service Soil biologicals analysis service customizes recommendations for growers New Age Farming announces the launch of its new DNA Soil Biological Analysis service, an advanced testing platform designed to help commercial crop producers better understand soil biology to develop customized biological management plans that improve soil health, increase nutrient efficiency, and maximize the return on crop input investments. According to New Age Farming, the DNA Soil Biological Analysis moves beyond traditional soil sampling and nutrient testing to evaluate the living biological ecosystem responsible for nutrient cycling, root development, disease suppression, and long-term soil performance. By creating customized biological recommendations tailored to the unique needs of each field, growers can improve nutrient efficiency and potentially reduce input costs by $25 to $75 per acre, depending on field conditions and management practices.
The DNA-based analysis identifies more than 5,000 microbial species while screening for important soilborne diseases and pests, including soybean cyst nematode, Fusarium, root rot pathogens, cutworms, and other biological indicators that can significantly impact crop performance and yield. In addition to identifying beneficial and harmful microorganisms, the analysis helps producers better understand the nutrients already stored within their soils, allowing them to make more informed decisions about fertility programs and biological applications. “Farmers have spent decades making input decisions based primarily on chemistry,” says Brady Krchnavy, owner and president of New Age Farming LLC and NAF Distributing LLC. “Soil biology is the missing piece to get a clearer picture of what’s happening beneath the surface so they can make smarter management
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decisions to improve nutrient efficiency, manage input costs and build healthier soils over time. This is the next evolution of precision agriculture.” The service is designed for all producers, agronomists and ag retailers looking to support crop production programs that enhance plant performance to maximize yield. Each analysis provides growers with actionable insights that can help: • Improve nutrient efficiency through optimized soil biology • Identify beneficial and deficient microbial populations • Detect disease and pest pressure before it affects yield potential • Better understand nutrient reserves already present in the soil • Develop field-specific biological management strategies • Support stronger root systems and healthier crops “This isn’t about applying more products,” Krchnavy states. “It’s about applying the right biology in the right fields based on actual science. Every field is different, and producers deserve recommendations that support their unique field ecosystems.” Producers are encouraged to schedule sampling this fall to receive results and recommendations in time for 2027 spring planting decisions. Soil analysis costs $335 per sample and takes two to three weeks to complete and receive results. To learn more or book a DNA Soil Biological Analysis, visit https:// nafbiologicals.com. continued on pg. 44
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Now News. . .
continued from pg. 42
Reinke Wins 2026 AgTech Breakthrough Award Annual awards recognize innovation in agricultural and food technologies Reinke Manufacturing, a global leader in irrigation systems and technology, has been selected as winner of the “Irrigation Innovation of the Year” award for the E3™ center pivot. The 7th annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards honor innovators driving sustainable solutions in the global agricultural and food technology markets today. Reinke built its E3 center pivot system to meet the challenges growers face to conserve water and increase yields. The patented design is engineered to deliver consistent, efficient water application across diverse field conditions and set a new standard for accuracy, reliability and efficiency in mechanized irrigation.
“Innovation only matters when it solves a real problem for growers,” says Chris Roth, president of Reinke. “E3 was designed from the ground up to give growers precision control over their water application, setting a new standard for how irrigation systems perform in the field.” “To be recognized with an AgTech Breakthrough Award,” Roth adds, “affirms what our team set out to build—equipment that helps growers maximize yield potential while conserving one of their most valuable resources.” E3 is the first precision series of spans and end booms with uniform coupler spacing in 30- and 60-inch intervals
to achieve uniform water application the entire length of the system. It exceeds U.S. Department of Agriculture Center Pivot Evaluation and Design (CPED) water uniformity benchmarks and includes a suite of advancements that improve stability, reliability, and efficiency across terrains: • Precision system configurations: spans from 80’ to 220’ in 20’ increments (including the indemand 175’) and inverted truss end booms from 10’ to 110’ • ReinLock™ anti-racking truss system: engineered for superior strength and consistent span crown in challenging field conditions • Exclusive Reinke V-ring seals: maintain flow without reduction for powerfully precise watering The mission of the annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards program is to recognize the innovators transforming the global agricultural and food production landscape through technology. From precision agriculture platforms and farm management software to AI-driven yield forecasting, soil and water sensing and synthetic biology innovations, these breakthrough innovations are enabling agricultural companies to operate more sustainably, feed a growing global population and shape the future of how the world grows and produces food. “Some of the most consequential innovation in agriculture is in the hardware that has defined a category for decades, quietly re-engineered to do its core job better,” says Bryan Vaughn, managing director, AgTech Breakthrough.
44 BC�T November
“Reinke stood out for rethinking the center pivot itself,” Vaughn remarks, “engineering uniform water application into the structure of the machine rather than treating it as an add-on. E3 is a deserving winner of our 2026 ‘Irrigation Innovation of the Year’ award.” Now available to growers across the United States and Canada, with additional markets opening as the system rolls out worldwide, E3 is part of Reinke’s continued investment in precision irrigation technology to help growers do more with less water. To learn more about E3, explore the full scope of its innovative features, or find a dealer, visit https://reinke.com/products/ center-pivot/electrogator-r-3.
Above: Reinke’s E3 center pivot has been honored as the “Irrigation Innovation of the Year” winner in the 7th annual AgTech Breakthrough Awards. The awards are given to innovators driving sustainable solutions in the global agricultural and food technology markets today.
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SECURING Agriculture’s Workforce Bill expands access to year-round operations and reduces employer costs By Sarah Black, Director, Great Lakes Ag Labor Services In Congress, U.S. House Agriculture Chairman G.T. Thompson’s ag workforce bill continues to gain steam. H.R. 9535 “Securing Agriculture’s
Workforce Act of 2026” would modernize and make statutory reforms to the H-2A program—the first significant changes since the program was last updated over 40
years ago back in 1986! The bill expands access to year-round operations, reduces employer costs, and streamlines the multi-agency application process.
Global genetics, local solutions, potato varieties that deliver. Visit us online or call EuroplantAmerica.com • 208.552.3096 to find out how you can benefit from our quality potato varieties. 46 BC�T November
The bill (https://agriculture. house.gov/uploadedfiles/sawa_ summary_2026.pdf) has over 60 bipartisan sponsors, and a very broad and diverse coalition of over 500 agricultural and business organizations have endorsed the bill. Above: With a shrinking domestic workforce for agricultural labor, farmers have increasingly turned to hiring H-2A guest workers. Many H-2A workers return to the same farm season after season. Both the employer and the employee benefit when these strong working relationships continue year after year.
The reform legislation contains many important changes including: • Removing the longstanding “temporary or seasonal” requirement, redefining “temporary” as any contract under 350 days, and opening the program to dairy, aquaculture, poultry, and year-round agricultural needs. • Codifying into law the current wage structure from the U.S. Department of Labor’s Oct 2025 interim final rule, implementing a 3.25% cap on annual wage increases and eliminating mid-contract wage adjustments. • Greatly expanding eligible job categories to include agricultural processing, aquaculture, equine, logging, livestock and poultry operations. • Permitting the transition of current eligible farmworkers into the H-2A program, providing a lawful transfer to a non-immigrant work visa, and
Whether it be orchards, vegetable farms or greenhouses, labor is a big source of stress for farmers. H-2A can help relieve the tension by providing a legal, reliable workforce.
legal status, not citizenship. • Providing greater flexibility for farms and reduced costs with staggered entry and exit of workers, up to a 350-day long contract, options for multi-year certifications,
0+
a housing cost deduction for employer, and elimination of unrelated fees on employers, such as elimination of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services asylum fees. continued on pg. 48
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Securing Agriculture’s Workforce . . . continued from pg. 47
Several addition streamlining/ modernization components include: • Options for states to provide a 3-year housing inspection certificate (currently annually) • Consolidating complicated filing into one online single filing platform (currently four) • Mandating fast processing by the government (15 days) • Allowing for post-certification amendments, giving more flexibility for farms with weather changes, buying farms mid-contract, etc. • Allowing interview waivers for returning workers
by Congressman Jim Jordan of Ohio, and Chairman Thompson is urging for passage during the Congressional lame duck session after the November election.
• Allowing joint employers and agricultural co-ops to use the program
The H-2A program remains the pinnacle program for meeting seasonal agricultural worker demand.
The bill has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, chaired
With a shrinking domestic workforce for agricultural labor, farmers have
48 BC�T November
Above: H-2A laborers work in all aspects of potato production, from spring field preparation, planting and harvest to grading, sorting and packing.
increasingly turned to legal, nonimmigrant H-2A guest workers, and the program has grown 185% in the last 10 years. In 2025, nearly 400,000 H-2A positions were certified nationwide.
BC�T November 49
Marketplace
By Dana Rady, WPVGA Director of Promotions & Consumer Education
From Farm to Nutrition:
important audience for the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA).
Building Connections with Dietitians Registered Dietitians are highly knowledgeable professionals who play an influential role in shaping how consumers understand nutrition and healthy lifestyles.
consumers in retail environments, and, in many cases, operate their own businesses where they provide nutrition education and guidance for clients.
The Association is committed to strengthening its relationships with Registered Dietitians and positioning itself as a trusted resource for them, their colleagues, and the consumers they serve.
They work alongside medical professionals in healthcare settings, collaborate with educators in school districts, engage directly with
With their extensive knowledge of potato nutrition and the many health benefits potatoes naturally provide, Registered Dietitians represent an
While several Wisconsin potato promotion initiatives support this effort from various angles, WPVGA took a more interactive approach on
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Potatoes USA Director of Nutrition Riley Peterson (right) shares insights into how potatoes fit into the evolving conversation surrounding GLP-1 medications and nutrition at the Food + Farm Exploration Center (FFEC), on September 23, during the first “Registered Dietitian Day” that the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) hosted.
the afternoon of September 23 by hosting its first “Registered Dietitian Day” at the Food + Farm Exploration Center (FFEC), in Plover.
presented “Culinary Strategies for Maximizing Flavor and Nutrition of America’s Favorite Vegetable in Underserved Communities.”
Although the timing of the event presented challenges for significant industry participation due to the busy harvest season, it created an opportunity for involvement from Potatoes USA.
His presentation combined education with hands-on culinary demonstrations, as he prepared two potato dishes for attendees to enjoy. The first was a quick, healthy and fresh roasted fingerling potato salad, followed by homemade gnocchi.
EXPERTISE & PARTICIPATION Two members of the Potatoes USA team were already in Wisconsin for a chef training event at the FFEC, scheduled for September 24. Hosting Registered Dietitian Day one day before, on September 23, allowed the WPVGA to take advantage of their expertise and participation, while also providing an opportunity for attendees to earn approved continuing education credits.
As guests sampled Chef R.J.’s dishes, WPVGA Director of Promotions
Potatoes USA Director of Culinary Chef R.J. Harvey provided a hands-on cooking demonstration, preparing a roasted fingerling potato salad and homemade gnocchi during the first Registered Dietitian Day.
Dana Rady provided an overview of the Association and discussed the many ways the Association supports Wisconsin’s potato industry and growers. Grower perspectives were also an important part of the afternoon. Wendy Dykstra of Alsum Farms & Produce, Friesland, generously volunteered her time during the busy harvest season to participate in a grower discussion. Dykstra offered continued on pg. 52
The afternoon began with Potatoes USA Director of Nutrition Riley Peterson, who presented “Potato Nutrition in a Changing Health Landscape.” Peterson highlighted Potatoes USA’s work in the nutrition space and explored how potatoes fit into the evolving conversation surrounding GLP-1 medications and nutrition. Next, Potatoes USA Director of Culinary Chef R.J. Harvey BC�T November 51
Marketplace. . .
continued from pg. 51
attendees an inside look at the time, effort and care Wisconsin growers dedicate to producing a sustainable, high-quality product for consumers.
created a valuable and intimate environment for addressing some of the questions Registered Dietitians regularly encounter from consumers.
MEANINGFUL DIALOGUE Peterson moderated the discussion, which provided an opportunity to address questions and foster meaningful dialogue between growers and nutrition professionals.
Topics such as sustainability, the realities of potato production and the nutritional benefits of potatoes provided opportunities for open discussion and greater understanding between the agricultural and nutrition communities.
The afternoon concluded with a social hour featuring cocktails, mocktails and potato-inspired bites, giving attendees an opportunity to continue the conversation in a relaxed setting while building connections and enjoying each other’s company. Overall, Registered Dietitian Day
Building these relationships doesn’t happen overnight. However, small, intentional efforts can go a long way toward establishing trust, opening lines of communication and creating lasting connections. By engaging directly with Registered Dietitians and providing them with
Left: A light fingerling potato salad prepared by Potatoes USA Director of Culinary Chef RJ Harvey is easy to make and delicious as topped with a fresh mustard vinaigrette dressing. RIght: Potatoes USA Director of Nutrition Riley Peterson (second from right) leads a discussion with Alsum Farms & Produce Chief Operating Officer Wendy Dykstra (right) during the first “Registered Dietitian Day” that WPVGA hosted at the Food + Farm Exploration Center.
accurate, relevant and firsthand information about potatoes and potato production, WPVGA is taking an important step toward positioning itself as a trusted resource for nutrition professionals and the consumers they influence.
WPIB Focus Wisconsin Potato Assessment Collections: Two-Year Comparison Month
Jul-25
Aug-25
Sep-25
CWT
1,636,896.24
1,249,169.92
1,428,931.67
4,314,997.83
Assessment
$130,951.76
$99,933.61
$114,314.52
$345,199.89
Month
Jul-26
Aug-26
Sep-26
CWT
1,761,767.43
1,615,836.42
804,671.29
4,182,275.14
Assessment
$140,941.37
$129,266.93
$64,373.77
$334,582.07
52 BC�T November
Oct-25
Oct-26
Nov-25
Nov-26
Dec-25
Dec-26
Jan-26
Jan-27
Feb-26
Feb-27
Mar-26
Mar-27
Apr-26
Apr-27
May-26
May-27
Jun-26
Jun-27
Year-to-Date
Year-to-Date
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People
WPVGA Hall of Famer Victor Anthony Passes Away Agribusinessman believed in the power of relationships & treating people fairly A humble potato farmer with a big heart, Victor Anthony spent his life quietly giving more to the world than he ever asked from it. Born to Jessie and Victor Anthony Sr. on August 27, 1940, in a farmhouse in Lind Center, Wisconsin, Victor Walter Anthony Jr. grew up learning the importance of family, hard work, and generosity. Victor was very close with his mother who demonstrated quiet strength, frugality, and unconditional love, while his older sisters, Eileen Loehrke and Patrica Boushley, made sure Victor stayed on the straight and narrow with their loving guidance,
quick wit, and unwavering hospitality. Victor maintained a strong and devoted lifelong friendship with his older brother, Lucius (Bud) Anthony; and as the youngest siblings in a big family, Vic and his younger sister, Rosalie Bednar, spent a lifetime loyally looking out for each other. A wiz at math but otherwise rather uninterested in formal schooling, Victor headed off to Spencerian Business College in 1958. Upon graduation, he and his best friend, Bill Hoffman, enlisted in the Army where Victor served as a bookkeeper stateside.
Victor W. Anthony Jr. August 27, 1940 – September 14, 2026
Upon being honorably discharged, he headed back to Wisconsin to
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help his brother, Bud, grow and operate Anthony Farms, Inc. The revered uncle to many nieces and nephews, Victor cared deeply about his extended family and valued his relationships with each and every one of them. Victor was a “late bloomer,” as he would say, meeting Christine Buchholz, the love of his life, in 1973 and later marrying on May 23, 1975, at the ripe old age of 34. Vic and Chris established their home in Waupaca where they raised their three daughters, Karen, Katie, and Carol. Vic and Chris’ love for their community, and the people in their community, can be seen and felt around many corners. Victor, a kind and gentle man with a generous heart, was a fan favorite of his daughter’s friends and was wellknown for his famous stove-made popcorn and root beer floats, a dinner of champions. SEEDS OF SUCCESS Although he would refer to himself as a simple potato farmer, Victor was in fact a successful agribusinessman who believed steadfastly in the power of relationships and treating people fairly. Vic’s vision and determination were the seeds of his success, and his integrity, intellect, and hard work nurtured the company’s growth. With a team of employees whom Vic considered part of his extended family, Anthony Farms became a leader in the Wisconsin potato industry. Vic was inducted into the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Hall of Fame in 2009.
alternate routes, will get you back on track. Vic’s passion for cars, preferably red ones, resulted in a midlife crisis of a little red convertible. While not very practical for Wisconsin, it sure was a lot of fun. Vic loved rock ’n’ roll, specifically Elvis, and could cut a rug on the dance floor.
A life-long connoisseur of sweets, there is not a slice of pie or dish of ice cream that Vic didn’t love. A man of unwavering faith, Victor was always available with a heartfelt prayer, and he walked through life with grace and a generous heart. continued on pg. 56
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Victor had a knack for knowing how to get just about anywhere. Lost in Alabama? Just call Vic and he will tell you exactly which roads, plus a few BC�T November 55
People. . .
continued from pg. 55
His faith was a source of strength during times of challenge and times of joy. When asked how he was doing, Vic would respond, “Every day is a gift.” Victor was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia in 2018. He continued to live his life the only way he knew how, with positivity, faithfulness,
humility, kindness, and appreciation for others. Victor passed away peacefully on September 14, 2026, at the Wisconsin Veterans Home in King, Wisconsin. One of Vic’s last gifts was to contribute his body to Lewy Body Dementia research at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.
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AT PEACE Though our hearts are broken by his loss, we find comfort in knowing that Vic is no longer suffering and that he is at peace. The memories he created, the lessons he taught, the example by which he lived his life, and the love he shared will live on through those who knew him. Victor is preceded in death by his dear mother, Jessie Anthony, and father, Victor W. Anthony Sr.; sisters, Eileen Loehrke, Patricia Boushley, Marien Wozny, and Margaret Callies; brother, Jim Anthony; his fatherand mother-in-law, Harold and Ruth Buchholz; and his son-in-law, Jonathan Beal. He is survived by his loving wife, Chris; daughters, Karen Gabler (Peter), Katie Anthony (Ben Rasmussen), and Carol Anthony (Jason Good); grandchildren, Patrick, Theodore, Elizabeth, Elliott, and Meredith; sister, Rosalie Bednar; brother, Lucius (Bud) Anthony; and a host of other family and dear friends. In the gracious words of Victor, “I’ve had a good life.” The family would like to extend their deepest appreciation for the wonderful staff at the Wisconsin Veterans Home for the kindness and care they extended to both Vic and his loved ones. A visitation for Vic was held, on September 26, at Holly’s Funeral Home, in Waupaca. Victor’s Celebration of Life was September 27 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Waupaca, with visitation at the church just prior to the ceremony. Memorial donations can be made in Vic’s honor to ELCA World Hunger, P.O. Box 1809, Merrifield, VA 221168009, or online at https://community. ELCA.org/givenow with a note “In Memory of Vic Anthony;” or to Trinity Lutheran Church, 206 E. Badger Street, Waupaca, WI 54981.
Myron Wasieleski Passes Peacefully
He worked for Kizewski Farms, Basic American Foods, and Mortenson Bros. Farms It is with deep sorrow and broken hearts that we mourn the peaceful passing of Myron Raymond Wasieleski, 73, of Plover, Wisconsin, who died unexpectedly at home on October 12, 2026. Myron lived his life with quiet purpose and unwavering love for his family. He believed in honesty, hard work and keeping your word. He lived by a code that never needed to be written down—if you said you would do something, you did it, and if you made a promise, you kept it. He was genuine. He spoke his mind, stood by his convictions, and believed that a person’s character meant more than things of this world. He understood that life wasn’t always easy or fair, but he never believed that was an excuse to be dishonest or to take the easy way out. Some may have called him old-fashioned, and others may have said he could be stubborn. But he knew what he believed and he would not waiver in those beliefs. He would often say, “That’s the problem!” when life was lived any other way. Myron’s work life began as a young child while working on Kizewski potato farms and helping his mom in the family tavern. Later, he devoted many years to his work at Basic American Foods and Mortenson Bros. Farms until retirement. SIMPLE JOYS He enjoyed life in the simple joys of spending time with the Wasieleski family, trips to Canada to fish and pick blueberries, the Green Bay Packers, Milwaukee Brewers, NASCAR, polkas played by the Hi Fi’s and Polka Stars
and listening to old country music while strumming on his wooden “air” guitar. Myron is survived by his daughter, Carrie Mish, who was his pride and joy, and his grandsons, Hunter Mish and Austin Mish. He will be dearly missed by his partner in life and love, Judy Jurgella. He leaves behind his sisters, Irene (Dennis) Taves and Karen (Gerald) Walczak, and his brother, Kevin (Michelle) Wasieleski, nephews, Joshua and Alex, and nieces, Tina, Amy and Jenna, as well as extended family and friends. Myron was predeceased by his parents, Ervin Wasieleski and Ramona Kizewski, whose love shaped the foundation of how he lived his life. Friends and family gathered in Myron’s memory, in Plover, October 19, 2026, at Pisarski Funeral Home. Burial took place in Saint Bronislava Parish Cemetery. A Celebration of Life to continue sharing remembrances, food and drink was held at Club Forest, in Plover. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Myron’s honor will be used toward a local organization determined
Myron R. Wasieleski July 5, 1953 – October 12, 2026
by his family. His legacy is found in the lessons he taught, the people he helped, the work he did, and the values he lived by. He leaves us with the simple truth that right is still right, wrong is still wrong, and a person’s word still matters. “In memory of a common man who loved ‘his people’ quietly but well.” Pisarski Funeral Home is honored to be serving the Wasieleski Family.
Varieties grown with care: RED
Red LaSoda 10-3 YELLOW
Christel WHITE
Langlade
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WISCONSIN CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES BC�T November 57
Potatoes USA News Potatoes USA Holds Spud Ranch
Culinary immersion inspires national chains to explore more potatoes on menus Potatoes USA hosted Spud Ranch in August, an invitation-only culinary immersion that brought culinary and menu decisionmakers from five national foodservice chains to Montana for hands-on potato education, menu innovation, and a visit to a potato farm. Every operator rated the experience a 5 out of 5 and left with new potato ideas for their menus.
Potatoes USA Culinary Director Chef R.J. Harvey (right) addresses decisionmakers from national foodservice chains during the Spud Ranch this past August, in Montana.
N
EW
Participants included decisionmakers at high-volume chains with the goal of helping them see potatoes as a strategic, versatile ingredient and to encourage more operators to menu more potato dishes.
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Held August 23-26 in the Bozeman and the Big Sky area, Spud Ranch is an evolution of Potatoes USA’s innovation sessions. The small, multi-day format was designed to strengthen relationships and gather operator insights away from a typical vendor setting. “Spud Ranch gave us a unique opportunity to bring influential foodservice operators directly to potato fields, helping them understand the versatility, quality, and value of potatoes,” says Annelise McAuliffe Soares, global foodservice development manager at Potatoes USA.
yellow, fingerling, and red potatoes to experience the differences in cooking methods and types of spuds. They also explored how dehydrated potato products can solve operational problems and dug into data on loaded fries, followed by a tasting. Participants learned that loaded fries and dehydrated applications are both trending menu items, and each is achievable with ingredients they
already have in their kitchens. Portability was another key theme throughout the immersion. Potatoes were featured in on-the-go formats, such as a “walking chip” lunch (sandwich toppings added to a bag of potato chips for an easy-to-carry meal) and bento box meals enjoyed during outdoor activities and hikes, highlighting their versatility for continued on pg. 60
“By building stronger relationships and inspiring new menu ideas,” she adds, “we’re creating demand that ultimately benefits our industry.” SPUD SCHOOL The trip’s highest-rated experience was Spud School, a sensory workshop and culinary demo led by Potatoes USA’s Culinary Team. Each chain presubmitted questions, such as which potatoes make the best fries and how dehydrated flakes are made, that shaped the session. Operators enjoyed a guided tasting of steamed and roasted russet,
Operators enjoyed a guided tasting of steamed and roasted russet, yellow, fingerling, and red potatoes to experience the differences in cooking methods and types of spuds.
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Potatoes USA News. . . continued from pg. 59
snacking, delivery, and convenient eating occasions. The immersion concluded at PremierAg, where grower and Potatoes USA board member Ben DeJonge welcomed the group to his family farm, sharing insights from more than a century of Montana farming while bringing seasonality, sourcing, and production to life for operators. The immersion created momentum for future potato menu innovation. All attendees said they are now looking to try new potato applications on their menus. Potatoes USA will work directly with each attendee to develop new menu concepts for their operations. Building on Spud Ranch’s momentum, Potatoes USA plans to conduct a similar operator immersion in 2027.
Portability was another key theme throughout the immersion. Potatoes were featured in on-the-go formats, such as a “walking chip” lunch (sandwich toppings added to a bag of potato chips for an easyto-carry meal).
The immersion concluded at PremierAg, where grower and Potatoes USA board member Ben DeJonge welcomed the group to his family farm.
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Seed Piece USDA Announces Seed Sovereignty Initiative
$180 million is being invested toward protecting plant genetic resources
On October 6, 2026, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L.
Rollins announced a $180 million investment to launch the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Seed Sovereignty Initiative.
The Seed Sovereignty Initiative is a major effort to both strengthen U.S. agricultural security by protecting the plant genetic resources that underpin American agriculture and enable breakthroughs in U.S. agricultural innovation. This initiative will provide muchneeded investments in USDA’s Agricultural Research Service (ARS) National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS), which houses more than
600,000 accessions representing over 16,000 species. Using this funding, USDA will sequence collections of major crops to unlock the tremendous potential of the plant genetic resources the United States holds and identify critical gaps. “Since President Trump returned to office, he has made it clear that we are putting American farmers first. For too long, the future of our crops
and seeds has not been a priority. That changes today, because we cannot afford to depend on foreign adversaries for next year’s crop,” says Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “Today’s announcement is another example of this administration focusing on the inputs our agriculture industry depends on,” Secretary Rollins adds, “and ensuring a future where our farmers are the most productive in the world.” Foreign competitors are actively acquiring and sequencing plant genetic resources from around the
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world. Meanwhile, the United States has not yet capitalized on the genetic information within U.S. collections, which is not fully sequenced. The Seed Sovereignty Initiative will help close that knowledge gap and reduce the risk of future foreign dependence. NATIONAL ASSET “America’s agricultural resources are a strategic national asset,” says Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden. “We need to survey our domestic resources, understand where we are vulnerable, and ensure the United States never has to rely on foreign competitors for critical agricultural resources.” Over two years, the USDA will characterize and sequence numerous NPGS collections and use advanced technologies, including super intelligence, to identify valuable traits. This work will help USDA and American researchers respond more quickly to emerging pests and diseases and support the development of new crop varieties to benefit U.S. farmers and consumers.
The Seed Sovereignty Initiative will move USDA from preserving America’s agricultural genetic resources to fully understanding and strategically using the resources to strengthen American agriculture.
robust emphasis on seeds. The expanded partnership will help ensure American farmers have
greater transparency, stronger competition, and more choices in the seed marketplace.
“The National Plant Germplasm System contains tremendous, untapped potential for American agriculture,” says Dr. Scott Hutchins, USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics and Chief Scientist. “Modern sequencing will allow us to unlock that potential and put it to work for American farmers, providing them a strong advantage.” The Seed Sovereignty Initiative will move USDA from preserving America’s agricultural genetic resources to fully understanding and strategically using the resources to strengthen American agriculture. USDA is also expanding its existing Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of Justice to strengthen competition in agricultural input markets, with a continued
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BC�T November 63
Protect the Farm
While Planning for Long-Term Care
Early planning allows a family to protect the operation for the next generation By Attorney McKenna Coffeen, Ruder Ware For many Wisconsin families, the farm is more than an asset. It is a home, a business, a way of life, and a legacy built through
generations of work and sacrifice. Yet many farm families share a common fear as they grow older: If long-term care becomes necessary,
RINE RIDGE FARMS FOUNDATION & CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES W8132 County Road O • Bryant, WI 54418
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will uninsured nursing home costs force the sale of land, machinery, or other assets? And will the next generation still be able to continue what the family built? These concerns deserve attention long before a health crisis occurs. Farmers plan for changing weather, equipment needs, markets, and the next season. Yet conversations about aging, disability, and long-term care are often postponed. Avoiding the subject, however, does not eliminate the risk. There is a misconception that “It won’t happen to us.” A stroke, dementia diagnosis, serious illness, or accident can change Above: Farm families often hold most of their net worth in farmland, buildings, machinery, livestock, and other operating assets. Photo courtesy of Datonn AmmelSopa
a family’s circumstances overnight, forcing loved ones to make urgent emotional, legal, and financial decisions that may affect the future of the entire operation. UNIQUE CHALLENGES Unlike families whose wealth may be concentrated in cash savings or investments, farm families often hold most of their net worth in farmland, buildings, machinery, livestock, and other operating assets. They may appear wealthy on paper, but those assets are illiquid and essential to producing income. When significant long-term care expenses arise, families may have to consider selling land or equipment to pay the medical bills. Losing acres held for generations can be financially disruptive and deeply painful. Medicare may cover limited shortterm rehabilitation after certain hospital stays, but it generally does
“Long-term care planning is about maintaining control over important decisions rather than allowing circumstances to make those decisions for you.”
– McKenna Coffeen, Attorney, Ruder Ware
not pay for ongoing custodial care, such as help with bathing, dressing, eating, or supervision. Families may therefore be responsible for substantial long-term care costs not covered by Medicare. Families often have options, but many effective strategies require
advance preparation. Waiting until someone has entered a long-term care home or nursing facility can sharply limit those options. Early planning allows a family to consider ways to preserve assets, retain flexibility, and protect the continued on pg. 66
BC�T November 65
Protect the Farm While Planning for Long-Term Care. . . continued from pg. 65
operation for the next generation. No single strategy fits every farm. Age, health, marital status, ownership and business structure, succession goals, and the nature of the family’s assets all matter. A plan should be tailored to the family and coordinated with its broader estate and farmsuccession goals.
LONG-TERM PLANNING Long-term care planning is broader than Medicaid planning. It includes deciding who will act if incapacity occurs; having current financial and healthcare powers of attorney; evaluating ownership of farmland and business assets; coordinating succession and
estate planning; considering lawful strategies to preserve family wealth and benefit eligibility when appropriate; and communicating the family’s wishes to the next generation. At its core, long-term care planning is about maintaining control over important decisions rather than allowing circumstances to make those decisions for you. For many farmers, legacy is not primarily about leaving money. It is about leaving opportunity by keeping the farm viable, giving children and grandchildren choices, and carrying forward the values of hard work, stewardship, independence, and commitment to family. That type of legacy rarely happens by accident. Instead, it requires communication, intentional planning, and a willingness to discuss difficult topics before they become urgent. START NOW Many clients say, “We should have done this years ago.” Fortunately, planning opportunities may still exist, but the key is acting before a health crisis forces decisions. Whether you are approaching retirement, actively farming, or preparing to transition the operation, ask one important question: If long-term care becomes necessary tomorrow, will your family have a plan? If the answer is uncertain, now is the time to start the conversation. Good planning cannot guarantee that longterm care will never affect the farm, but it can create options, direction, and peace of mind. Protecting the farm is not only about preserving land; it is about protecting the people, values, and legacy that make the land worth preserving.
66 BC�T November
You’d be healthier, too, if you spent your winters in Hawaii.
• While all state seed potato association 100% of Wisconsin Seed theirpotato foundation lots, some do not wint • While all all state seed • While state seed potatoassociations associationswinter winter test test 100% of Wisconsin Seed of their certified seed lots. theirtheir foundation lots, some dodonot winter test 100% 100% of Wisconsin Seed foundation lots, some not winter test 100% Potatoes must be winter of their certified seed lots. of their certified seed lots. does, and this assures you Potatoes must bebe winter • Wisconsin Potatoes must winter •for Wisconsin does, and tested to be eligible • Wisconsin does, andthis thisassures assures youget getonly only the the top-quality seed.you tested to be eligible for tested to be eligible for top-quality seed. top-quality seed. • With the Wisconsin Badger State Brand certified seed thethe Wisconsin Badger • With Wisconsin BadgerState StateBrand BrandTag, Tag,you youget get certified seed tags. certified seed tags.tags.• With
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Don’t bet farm untested seed potatoes. Don’t bet your farm onseed untested seed potatoes. Don’t bet youryour farm on on untested potatoes. Check thethe winter results and Begin with Best Wisconsin! Check the winter testtest results and Begin with thethe Best —— Wisconsin! Check winter test results and Begin with the Best — Wisconsin! WISCONSIN WISCONSIN Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association, Inc. WISCONSIN CERTIFIED Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association, Inc. CERTIFIED Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association, Inc. P.O. Box 173 • Antigo, WI 54409 • 715-623-4039 • www.potatoseed.org POTATOES CERTIFIED P.O. Box 173 • Antigo, WI 54409 • 715-623-4039 • www.potatoseed.org SEEDSEED POTATOES
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NPC News
Potato LEAF Announces Capstone Projects
Two 2026 Leadership Institute projects to be presented at Potato Expo The Potato Leadership, Education and Advancement Foundation (Potato LEAF) today announced it has selected two capstone projects from the 2026 Leadership Institute to be presented at Potato Expo 2027. As a capstone to their 10 days of training and experience, Leadership Institute graduates work in small teams to develop a proposal that will further advance the U.S. potato industry. Proposals are presented to the Potato LEAF Board of Directors, who select the teams to present at Potato Expo. “This year’s presentations provided great optimism for the future of the industry with the level of
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professionalism and problem-solving skills shown by all the teams,” says Brett Jensen, chairman of the Potato LEAF Board of Directors. “The industry will remain positioned to address big issues in the future with them in leadership positions.” CAPSTONE PROJECT 1 A Spud’s Life An interactive classroom program, A Spud’s Life aims to connect students with agriculture by taking them through the full journey of a potato, from seed to sale. Students grow a control potato alongside a game-based plant, using observation sheets and draw cards to explore crop science, weather and pest challenges, industry careers, and post-harvest choices. The hands-on experience is designed to strengthen agricultural literacy while building teamwork, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills.
Petoskey & Paige 715-623-7877
jmajewski@gpventures.farm N3120 Western Avenue • Antigo, WI 54409
continued on pg. 70 BC�T November 69
NPC News. . .
continued from pg. 69
Team members include: Tony Hart, Schutter Seed Farm, Manhattan, Montana Juan Martinez, JAM Farms, Warden Washington Fabian Quezada, Farm Fresh Direct of America, Monte Vista, Colorado CAPSTONE PROJECT 2 Leadership Pipeline: Growing Today. Leading Tomorrow.
The Leadership Pipeline project hopes to fill the industry’s leadership gap created as experienced leaders depart without formal succession plans. It identifies ways to develop the next generation of leaders through the development of stronger intentional succession practices and offers two tools—a Leadership Pipeline Assessment and an Individual
Leadership Roadmap—to help individuals and organizations act before vacancies become crises. Team members include: Shine Enander, Enander Seed Farm, Grenora, North Dakota Emily Merk, L&L Ag Production, Connell, Washington Tad Strohauer, Strohauer Farms, La Salle, Colorado
New EPA Email Subscription Available to Help Growers with ESA Requirements In September, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a new email subscription feature to Kittson County Restricted Seed Area
Dagen Heritage Farms EST. 1882
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dagenheritagefarm.com SCAN ME > 70 BC�T November
help pesticide users quickly receive updates from the Bulletins Live! Two system, including notifications about new Pesticide Use Limitation Areas (PULA) and changes to existing PULAs. With this feature, whenever Endangered Species Act (ESA) requirements are updated in Bulletins Live! Two, subscribed pesticide users will receive an email with the latest information, saving them time and making their jobs easier. As the EPA implements its strategy for complying with the ESA, more pesticide labels will direct growers to the Bulletins Live! Two system for additional, location-specific measures to protect threatened and endangered species and their designated critical habitat. Because the EPA continually adds and revises PULAs across geographic areas, a product may have no restrictions today but could be subject to them in the future. To subscribe to the EPA email, visit https://www.epa.gov/endangeredspecies/bulletins-live-two-viewbulletins.
POTATO EXPO JANUARY 5-7, 2027
GAY LO R D R O C K I E S DEN VER , C O LO RA D O BC�T November 71
New Products
Sand County Equipment Builds Chloropicrin Machine Implement injects product in row during tillage for precise application and nematode control Nematode control through fumigation is a common and
PLAN BETTER - BUILD BETTER - MAINTAIN BETTER
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72 BC�T November
SERVICES: Master Planning Design / Engineering Consulting General Contracting Remodel / Building Maintenance
necessary practice for Wisconsin potato growers striving toward
David Bach Client Development Cell: 208.249.4139 dbach@mcgowanrice.com
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healthy, high-yielding crops. Broad spectrum fumigant application, however, has its drawbacks, including escaping gas, product waste, applicator safety, and biological and environmental concerns. Applying chloropicrin precisely where needed to kill nematodes has the advantage of using less product with less waste and thus raising a high-yielding crop in a healthy environment.
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The Sand County Equipment chloropicrin injection machine is an eight-row, 32-inch hilling and tilling machine that applies chloropicrin via a stainless-steel tube behind the ripper shanks, with hilling discs following behind and forming a hill. The ripper shanks are in front of the cultivation discs with the stainless
chloropicrin injection tube behind the shanks. An implement dealer and manufacturer based in Bancroft, Wisconsin, Sand County Equipment is also currently building a 30-inch model for a customer. A wide variety of row widths are available including 40-, 38-, 36-, 34-, 32- and 30-inch. “Unlike other implements on the market where breaking shear pins is a costly problem, the chloropicrin injection machine uses a reset shank instead of shear pins,” says Paul Cieslewicz, owner of Sand County Equipment. “I had one customer who told me he replaced 60 shear pins in a 40-acre field. He had to get out of the tractor wearing a gas mask to work on ripper shanks.” “The chloropicrin label says it should be hipped and injected, so that’s what this injection machine accomplishes,” Cieslewicz says. “And at the same time, it seals the hill up to stop gas from escaping.” Typically, Wisconsin potato growers fumigate in the fall in preparation for the next year’s crop. This machine allows spring fumigation also. The machine is built using manufacturers that Sand County Equipment already supports, assuring wear parts are readily available. For more information, contact Sand County Equipment, 715-335-6652, cheryl@sandcountyequipment.com, www.sandcountyequipment.com.
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continued on pg. 74 BC�T November 73
New Products. . .
continued from pg. 73
Airocide Air Purifier Kills Airborne Pathogens
Purification system eliminates ethylene gas, mold spores, bacteria, fungi, and odors Airocide® Air Purifiers apply patented Photocatalytic Oxidation (PCO) technology that completely traps and destroys harmful airborne microorganisms and pollutants that cannot be caught by HEPA filters. Originally developed for NASA, the patented PCO technology destroys airborne pollutants in a closed system. No harmful emissions are produced, just clean air! A photocatalyst incorporating TiO2 is irradiated using photons from proprietary ultraviolet lights, forming hydroxyl radicals that are reduced to trace elements of CO2 and water. The catalyst surface absorbs and eliminates airborne pollutants like VOCs (volatile organic compounds), including ethylene, mold, bacteria, pathogens, viruses and odors. Airocide’s powerful HD Series has become the global standard in perishables processing and storage.
Listed as a Class II Medical Device by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, each Airocide Air Purifier is green and safe, using no ozone or harmful byproducts. Each air purifier is easy to install by simply mounting the unit on the wall or ceiling, plugging it in, and it’s ready to go! Three models—the GCS-25, GCS-50 and GCS-100 Air Purifiers—range in air sanitation for spaces with dimensions in the range of 2,000 cubic feet, 12,500-25,000 cubic feet, and 35,000 cubic feet, respectively. Airocide commercial air purification systems are engineered to support broader indoor air quality strategies across multiple industries and building types. Commercial air purification systems are used to continuously treat indoor air within occupied environments as part of broader indoor environmental quality initiatives.
BINFRONT BARRIERS …a better barrier
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Contact Pete Schroeder • 715-623-2689 Email: farm@sbfi.biz • Web: https://binfront.biz/ 74 BC�T November
• Supports indoor air quality initiatives • Helps reduce airborne contaminants within occupied spaces • Can support HVAC air quality strategies • Designed for healthcare, education, commercial, and industrial environments • Supports broader environmental hygiene and occupant wellness programs Airocide commercial air purification technologies are designed to support multiple indoor environmental applications, including HVAC air purification, airborne contaminant reduction, odor management, environmental hygiene initiatives, and indoor air quality improvement strategies. Solutions may include HVACintegrated systems, portable air purification units, surface-focused technologies, and occupied-space air disinfection systems depending on facility requirements and operational goals. For more information, contact Airocide Systems, attention Gina Shay, 585-705-7500, gina.shay@ airocidesystems.com, www.airocidesystems.com.
SARE Handbook on Cover Crops Offers Advice Research shows that cover crops can improve soil, break pest cycles, reduce input costs and improve yields. But choosing the right cover crops, and managing them successfully, can require careful consideration to identify the right mix of species, timing, and equipment that best serves your farm’s goals.
• Making Money Off of Cover Crops • Cover Crops Will Build Your Soil Health • Simple Steps for Getting Started with Cover Crops • Selecting Cover Crop Species and Mixes • Equipment Strategies and Options • Potential Issues • …and more
SARE’s newest handbook, “Cover Crops: Improving Soil Health, Stewardship and Profitability on the Farm” (https://www.sare.org/ resources/cover-crop-book/), helps farmers improve their understanding of how cover crops can fit into their operations.
Now in its second edition, “Cover Crops: Improving Soil Health, Stewardship and Profitability on the Farm” includes new chapters on using cover crops in grazing, horticulture, and organic systems. The stories of 12 grain, vegetable and livestock farmers from across the country highlight how they manage cover crops and what they have learned along the way.
Drawing on decades of research and farmer experience, the handbook covers: • How Cover Crops Can Fuel Our Farms
of Missouri Center for Regenerative Agriculture. “The land you work with can be green and healthy if you take the steps to get there.” Read “Cover Crops: Improving Soil Health, Stewardship and Profitability on the Farm” for free online or order a print copy at https:// www.sare.org/cover-crop-book. Print copies can be ordered online for $32 each, plus shipping and handling. Call (301) 779–1007 for telephone, tax-free, rush or purchase orders. Discounts apply for orders of 10 or more copies.
“Start small,” recommends author Rob Myers, director of the University
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DISHING IT UP WITH DANA Recipe Whisks Author Away to Another Place
Gnocchi Waldorf Salad is refreshing, packed with flavor, and a spin on a timeless classic Column and photos by Dana Rady, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved to travel. Visiting places that I’ve never been to before has always given me an exhilarating feeling, and I value how it has expanded my knowledge and appreciation for how other people live.
a bucket list item before graduating college to live in Europe for a year. This didn’t completely come out of left field since I chose to immerse myself in a Spanish-speaking country and become more proficient at using the language.
So, it probably wasn’t a shock to my parents when I committed to fulfilling
In the fall of 2006, I went to Spain. While there, I made a point to travel
“We’re not inheriting the land from our grandfathers. We’re borrowing it from our grandchildren.”
76 BC�T November
to other countries in Europe, and at the time, I could easily get on a flight to another European location for less than $100. I traveled to the Netherlands, France, England, throughout Spain, and to various cities in Italy. That’s where I experienced authentic Italian food, including fresh gnocchi.
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Those little morsels of fluffy potato dumplings paired with delicious Italian meats, fresh sauces, and a good wine, made for a truly beautiful combination.
and these beauties are ready to incorporate into a dish. Between the time savings and the health benefits that my family and I receive, gnocchi is a staple in our pantry.
I often think about my time overseas when we make gnocchi at home, which is fairly often, since it’s a favorite in our house when served with my homemade pesto sauce!
QUITE VERSATILE Gnocchi are also quite versatile. This month, I’m putting them in a salad that is refreshing, fresh, packed with flavor, and gives a small spin to a timeless classic.
I’m also a huge fan of gnocchi because of how much time it saves in this chaotic mom phase of life. Three short minutes in boiling water
Adding gnocchi to Waldorf Salad is the perfect way to add satiating properties to this side dish or main
course, as well as a bit of texture. The “small spin” this “Crispy Gnocchi Waldorf Salad” includes is to bake or air fry the gnocchi after boiling. The dumplings don’t end up being as crispy as a crouton, but they do offer a welcome chewy texture in this marriage of flavor. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention that this is the perfect salad to make ahead of time, stick in a mason jar, and eat on the go. Simply put the dressing on the side and add it when continued on pg. 78
CRISPY GNOCCHI WALDORF SALAD INGREDIENTS: 16 oz packaged potato gnocchi 1 Tbsp olive oil ⅛ tsp salt ⅛ tsp ground black pepper 5 oz spring-mix lettuce 1 small apple, diced ¼ cup pecans or walnuts, roughly chopped ¼ cup dried cranberries ¾ cup (2 stalks) celery, diced 2 cups rotisserie chicken, chopped ¼ cup bleu cheese crumbles ¼ cup store-bought balsamic vinaigrette
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Dishing It Up with Dana… continued from pg. 77
you’re ready to dig in! Every bite of this “Crispy Gnocchi Waldorf Salad” is a little reminder that food has a wonderful way of connecting us to the places we’ve been and the people we’ve shared them with. For me, gnocchi will always bring back memories of Italy, adventure, and the excitement of discovering something new. Now, it has found a place in our family kitchen, creating new memories around our table. I hope this recipe does the same for you, whether you’re enjoying it at home, sharing it with your family, or taking it along for your next adventure! DIRECTIONS: Boil gnocchi according to package instructions. Bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and boil for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the gnocchi floats to the top. Drain the gnocchi in a colander and immediately toss them in the olive oil. Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line your basket or tray with foil that has been lightly
sprayed with oil to ensure the gnocchi dumplings don’t stick. Air fry for 10 minutes until the gnocchi becomes slightly golden with a crispy exterior. Begin to assemble your salad. Start with a bed of mixed greens on the bottom of a serving platter, followed by the veggies, fruits, nuts, and chicken. Once the gnocchi have cooled slightly, sprinkle them over the top. Drizzle with the balsamic vinaigrette and serve. Visit https://eatwisconsinpotatoes. com/recipes/crispy-gnocchi-waldorfsalad/.
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