November 2024 Badger Common'Tater

$28/year | $2.50/copy | Volume 76 No. 11 | November 2024

THE VOICE OF WISCONSIN'S POTATO & VEGETABLE INDUSTRY

ANNUAL SEED ISSUE STATE PLAYS HOST TO Reverse Trade Mission 2024 WISCONSIN CERTIFIED Seed Potato Growers Directory PORTAGE COUNTY AG TOUR Stops at Top Tier Ingredients OSHA STARTS PREPARING Agribusiness Inspections

INTERVIEW:

CLOVER SPACEK

Eagle River Seed Farm

Clover Spacek, general manager of Eagle River Seed Farm, digs up a Frito-Lay chipping variety during harvest in late September.

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On the Cover: About 85% of the foundation-class certified seed potatoes grown on Eagle River Seed Farm are chipping varieties, says Clover Spacek, shown holding a Frito-Lay variety during harvest in late September. The operation in Eagle River, Wisconsin, includes about 1,200 farmable acres with 277 of those planted in 35 seed potato varieties and 64 seed lots.

8 BADGER COMMON’TATER INTERVIEW: Frito-Lay chipping potatoes are trucked off the field at Eagle River Seed Farm. Clover Spacek, general manager of the foundation-class certified seed potato farm, says Frito-Lay is the operation’s biggest customer. Spacek is the first woman to serve on the Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors in its 120-year history, and one of the few women managing a certified seed potato farm in the country.

DEPARTMENTS: AUXILIARY NEWS............... 48 BADGER BEAT.................... 56 MARK YOUR CALENDAR...... 6

22

50

77

MEXICAN PRODUCE BUYERS VISIT STATE

EYES ON ASSOCIATES

DANA DISHING IT UP

Wisconsin welcomes guests for a reverse trade mission

Over 30 students attend Fall Harvest Day as part of new recruitment program

Game day kicks off with cheesy potato skins and sweet pecan toffee bars

FEATURE ARTICLES:

MARKETPLACE................... 34 NEW PRODUCTS................ 74 NOW NEWS....................... 30 NPC NEWS......................... 72 PEOPLE.............................. 36 PLANTING IDEAS.................. 6

38 HERE’S YOUR COMPLETE 2024 Wisconsin Certified Seed Potato Growers Directory

POTATOES USA NEWS........ 64

42 PORTAGE COUNTY AG TOUR pulls into Heartland Farms and Top Tier Ingredients

SEED PIECE........................ 62

68 HAVE A PREPAREDNESS PLAN in place as OSHA conducts agribusiness inspections

WPIB FOCUS...................... 72

4

BC�T November

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Sowinski Trucking, LLC has sanitary equipment for your transportation needs. dispatch@sowinskifarms.com WPVGA Board of Directors: President: Randy Fleishauer Vice President: Charlie Mattek Secretary: John Bustamante Treasurer: Alex Okray Directors: Mike Carter, Wendy Dykstra, Bill Guenthner, Josh Knights & J.D. Schroeder Wisconsin Potato Industry Board: President: Heidi Alsum-Randall Vice President: Andy Diercks Secretary: Nicola Carey Treasurer: Keith Wolter Directors: John Bobek, John Fenske, Jim Okray, Eric Schroeder & Tom Wild WPVGA Associate Division Board of Directors: President: Matt Selenske

Vice President: Andy Verhasselt Secretary: Sally Suprise Treasurer: Paul Salm Directors: Melissa Heise, Ethan Olson, Scott Scheer, Morgan Smolarek & Brandon Taylor Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors: President: Matt Mattek Vice President: Jeff Suchon Secretary/Treasurer: Clover Spacek Directors: Charlie Husnick & Andy Schroeder Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary Board of Directors: President: Heidi Schleicher Vice President: Datonn Hanke Secretary/Treasurer: Becky Wysocki Directors: Jody Baginski, Erin Meister, Dakotah Smiley & Misti Ward

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: Jane Guillen Spudmobile Education and Outreach Administrator: George Neuber

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: $2.50/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 10

MADISON MARATHON (Full, Half and 10K) Capitol Square, 7 a.m., pre-registration required Madison, WI

JANUARY 2025 6-8

POTATOES USA WINTER MEETING Orlando, FL

9-10

POTATO EXPO 2025 Orlando World Center Marriott Orlando, FL

FEBRUARY 4-6

2025 GROWER ED CONFERENCE & INDUSTRY SHOW Holiday Inn Hotel & Convention Center Stevens Point, WI

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INTERNATIONAL CROP EXPO 2025 Alerus Center Grand Forks, ND

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PILI—POTATO INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE Wisconsin and Washington, D.C.

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JULY 9

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

27-31

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

AUGUST 5-7

6

WISCONSIN FARM TECHNOLOGY DAYS Clinton Farms Bear Creek, WI BC�T November

Planting Ideas It’s always so refreshing when

I receive a handwritten note someone mailed, or it gets forwarded to me from the office, as is the case in this first instance. Jane Guillen, who works in our Antigo office, emailed me a photocopied postcard that came in the mail from Pat Wyman addressed to Tamas Houlihan and Joe Kertzman.

In the card, Pat writes, “I recall Jeff reading the Badger Common’Tater whenever it arrived in the mail. Since Jeff’s passing, I have continued to receive your magazine.

I recognize so many names in articles, and some faces are quite familiar.

Thank you, Tamas, for sending it on …

“Joe, I enjoyed your article about Russ Groves, who replaced Jeff in the Department of Entomology [University of Wisconsin-Madison] when Jeff retired. Russ was a perfect fit to carry on and expand the work that Jeff and Doc Chapman did during the bulk of their careers at the UW. You mentioned the Wisconsin Idea. Jeff often referenced that principle.

He was so proud to be part of that tradition. Jeff knew it takes many actors to fill this pledge—growers, researchers and others integral to the field of vegetable agriculture, like you all, too. He held all in high esteem and considered them friends.

“Thank you for highlighting Jeff in the featured article on Russ Groves [main interview of the August 2024 issue] and other articles you have written. Jeff was a rather modest fellow. However, he would be so pleased to be remembered. I look forward to more of your stories in the ag field and your quality magazine.”

Thank you, Pat! Jeff is fondly remembered by those who knew him.

And thank you to Bob Moerkerke, production ag specialist, Frito-Lay, retired, who sent this email: “I enjoyed my copy of the September Badger Common’Tater, and the editorial [‘Planting Ideas’] you posted.

So important to bring potato people together to share and learn about what’s going on in the spud industry, and your note spoke to just how far back potato people got together to share. Speaking of bringing potato people together, I noticed that Your ‘Mark Your Calendar’ was missing a key date—July 27-31, 2025, the 109th Annual Meeting for the PAA [Potato Association of America], which will be taking place in Madison, Wisconsin.”

Thanks again, Bob, and I’ve added the date to “Mark Your Calendar.”

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/blog-news/subscribe.

Joe Kertzman

Managing Editor jkertzman@wisconsinpotatoes.com

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Interview NAME: Clover Spacek TITLE: General manager COMPANY: Eagle River Seed Farm LOCATION: Eagle River, WI HOMETOWN: Phillips, WI YEARS IN PRESENT POSITION: Two and a half years PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program (WSPCP), Copper River Cranberry Company, Country Aire Farms, and United Pride Dairy SCHOOLING: Lakeshore Technical College for dairy herd management ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS: Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors FAMILY: Husband, Josh, and dog, Cash HOBBIES: Gardening, fishing, hunting, reading, and crafting, “but let’s be honest, growing potatoes doesn’t allow much for hobby time!”

Above: Taking a phone call in the field is all part of the job for Eagle River Seed Farm General Manager Clover Spacek, who is one of the few women running a certified seed potato farm in the country.

8

BC�T November

CLOVER SPACEK,

general manager, Eagle River Seed Farm

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater

Raised on a dairy farm in Phillips, Wisconsin, Clover

Spacek is the first woman to serve on the Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association (WSPIA) Board of Directors in its 120-year history, and one of the few women managing a certified seed potato farm in the country.

Spacek admits this information was a bit lost on her until a group of women from Black Gold Farms came to visit Eagle River Seed Farm as part of a Women in Agriculture

tour and asked Clover to pose for a picture with them. When she asked why, they said, “We don’t meet many women farm managers.”

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“I don’t think about it,” Spacek says. “You asked me about being intimidated. When I became a seed inspector with the WSPCP, the first few times inspecting fields at farms like J.W. Mattek & Sons and Schroeder Brothers Farms, who’ve been in this business a lot of years, that was intimidating.”

“I had a very supportive family,” she adds. “My dad made me feel like I could do anything.”

Doing anything includes managing the people and operations at Eagle River Seed Farm, an early generation foundation-class seed potato farm founded in 1935 by Felix Zeloski.

FARM EXPANSION Through multiple generations of the Zeloski family and other tenured seed growers, the farm has continued to expand with high-quality foundation seed.

All seed grown on the farm is started from nuclear seed, which means the source material has never been grown in the soil, and the purity of the seed is one of the pillars of which Eagle River Seed Farm prides itself.

The foundation-class certified seed potato farm follows state law, which includes four yearly inspections.

You had little knowledge about potatoes when you started with the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program (WSPCP) as a field inspector, in 2016, but you did have a farming background. Tell me a little bit about your background and that first job with the WSPCP. I grew up on a dairy farm and then went to school for dairy herd management.

Right: Clover’s husband and coworker, Josh Spacek, plants seed potatoes on Eagle River Seed Farm.

I managed two large dairy herds over 10 years and then my husband, Josh, and I made the move to Copper River Cranberry Marsh.

I worked on and off the marsh, and then, in 2016, I took the job at WSPCP. I knew nothing of potatoes, but I started learning real fast! continued on pg. 10

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“Oats are under-seeded with a clover mix after potatoes,” Spacek explains.

“Eagle River Seed Farm harvests the oats, and then, the following year, clover is left to grow and mowed back three times to give all the organic matter back to the soil.”

Left: The planter is filled with more seed potatoes. Clover Spacek says Eagle River Seed Farm grows “seed to seed,” raising seed potatoes to sell to other seed growers.

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9

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 9

On my thirteenth day on the job, I headed off to inspector school in Canada. It is an amazing training course put on by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. I learned so much in one week.

Then I was off to Washinton and Oregon to a very cool virus training and field day. I spent that summer with Jim Meyer and Dianna Kessler, and I learned so much. I loved it.

I loved the challenge of potatoes, and I really enjoyed the disease detection.

I was also involved with the Lelah Starks Elite Foundation Seed Potato Farm, where I got to plant in the NFT (Nutrient Film Technique/hydroponic) greenhouses, as well as hand-cut 60 acres of seed potatoes each season and then plant the crop up there.

During this time, I built relationships with the Wisconsin certified seed potato growers.

You caught on quickly, soon inspecting seed potatoes and planting them at the State Farm.

Why do you think you took so well to potatoes and seed potatoes in general? I have always had a strong passion for agriculture, whether

animals or plants. I enjoy the challenge of learning new things, and I had really good mentors!

and growers in other states just because we all love to talk potatoes and learn all we can.

I have found that the potato community—seed and commercial— is so willing to share knowledge and they all are very passionate. I have connections in many certification departments around the country

How were you able to grow into the general manager position at Eagle River Seed Farm, and what was the learning curve like? In the fall of 2021, I was up inspecting at Eagle River Seed Farm (ERSF), and Ron Krueger let me know he was going to officially retire. He said, “Why don’t you apply?” I replied, “What the heck do I know about growing potatoes?”

Ron and Rick Hafner encouraged me to apply, and they both thought I could and would be successful at it.

I thought about it for a week or so and decided, what the heck, I’ll never get the job anyway! And here we are.

The learning curve was steep, but lucky for me, I had a lot of great support in mentors. Rick Hafner spent a bunch of time with me, continued on pg. 12

Above: Clover and Josh Spacek pose in an autumn photo with their dog, Cash. A true family farm, Josh went to work for Clover after managing a Copper River cranberry marsh, near Merrill, for 17 years. The couple has always enjoyed farming together.

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Interview. . .

continued from pg. 10

Ron stayed on part-time the first season, and A.J. Bussan was invaluable.

I also had a unique opportunity when three of our full-time employees quit before my first potato harvest in 2022. Kirk Wille and Gary Wysocki, both semi-retired owners of Wysocki Family of Companies, came up for the fall to help us.

They’ve both been huge supporters and amazing mentors to me and Josh. They continue to come up weekly to help. We have all built strong relationships, and they see the awesome opportunity at ERSF. Fortunately, I was able to keep one longstanding employee, Janelle

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Did Ron Krueger, former general manager of the farm, take you under his wing in some respects, or show you the ropes? Ron stayed on part-time until December 2022 to help mentor me. He still lives on the property and will answer questions anytime I have them.

Aside from Janelle being there 20 years, I believe you hired most of the current team. How were you able to gain their trust and respect? Janelle has been an invaluable asset in my ability to manage the farm. Josh

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West, who has been with ERSF for 20 years. She spent most of that first year answering my questions and everyone else’s.

Above: A Frito-Lay variety of chipping potatoes is harvested in late September on Eagle River Seed Farm. About 85% of the foundation-class certified seed grown on the farm is in chipping potatoes.

“Farming is a tough career, and we face more challenges every year. Staying positive for my team is very important.”

– Clover Spacek Above: The longest tenured member of Eagle River Seed Farm, Janelle West has been pulling duty such as cleaning the seed cutter (shown here) for 20 years.

are the two guys we hired in January 2024, and they have become a huge part of our team and success. Neither had a potato background, but both are hard workers who will learn anything.

Along with my parents, we have a group of retired folks who come back to help us in the spring and fall. We are so appreciative of their dedication and willingness to work so hard in retirement.

Kirk Wille got thrown in to be a mentor for me in all aspects of the business. He guides me in storage, projects and COP (cost of production). His 30-plus years of buying seed from seed growers helps in understanding what we need to accomplish here at ERSF. He is currently my project manager/ builder for a new warehouse and enclosed loading facility we are building. The first two seasons, Kirk also ran our windrower during harvest.

SECOND SET OF EYES Rick Hafner spent many days during the first harvest and planting seasons with us, providing advice, tweaking equipment and being a second set of eyes.

He also drove trucks and loaded seed if we needed it. He continues to visit continued on pg. 14

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BC�T November 13

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 13

as much as he can in his new role at Plover River Farms and is always just a phone call away for me.

Gary Wysocki is a mentor to Josh in the shop and on the equipment end of the farm. Josh did not have experience with potato equipment, and as you know, it is very specialized, so his guidance

has been appreciated.

Gary is also helping with land improvement projects and irrigation updates at the farm. He spends lots of time up here with us.

As far as gaining their trust, I believe my passion for agriculture, willingness to learn, intense drive

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Do your parents, Charles and Mary Lepke, work on the farm, and in what respect? As most farmers know, finding help is difficult and finding quality help is even harder. So, when we were short on help going into that first harvest, I called on my parents. continued on pg. 16

Left: When a group of women from Black Gold Farms visited Eagle River Seed Farm as part of a Women in Agriculture tour, they asked Clover to pose for a picture with them.

When she asked why, they said, “We don’t meet many women farm managers.” From left to right are Megan Davidson, farm agronomist from Rhodesdale, Maryland; Victoria Wright, Midwest regional agronomist; Clover Spacek; Christine Cash, East Coast regional agronomist; and Nicole Wickham, office administrator in Rhodesdale.

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Top Right: Kirk Wille, a semi-retired owner of Wysocki Family of companies, operates a tractor at Eagle River Seed Farm.

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to succeed and my positive attitude help to earn trust. I am notorious for asking many questions and they have all been so willing to share their knowledge.

Bottom Right: Clover Spacek tests potato samples at Eagle River Seed Farm.

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Interview. . .

continued from pg. 14

They are retired dairy farmers, so working hard is right up their alley.

They are now on their third harvest with us, and I have no idea what we would do without them.

It is very special to me to have this time working side-by-side with them again. They also help us grade as we ship seed out in the spring and stay on for planting!

Is it intimidating when you think about the Eagle River Seed Farm history, started in 1935 by Felix Zeloski, and having been run by several generations of the Zeloski

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family and other tenured seed growers? Coming into the position, I had big shoes to fill, and yes, it was a little intimidating. But I had a good background in what it takes to be an early generation seed farm, from having the opportunity to work with the Wisconsin seed potato growers as an inspector.

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Above: Putting certified seed potatoes up in storage at Eagle River Seed Farm is a family affair, including Clover (far right in the second image), and her Dad and Mom, Charles and Mary Lepke.

takes to grow high-quality seed.

Those relationships and experiences really had me well prepared.

varieties and 64 seed lots. We grow 85% chip varieties, and some russets, reds and yellows.

What do you like about working in the Wisconsin seed potato industry? The people and challenge of potatoes.

Who are your main customers and growers? Our largest customer is Frito-Lay. They have been an ERSF partner since Dennis and Ron signed the first contract back in 1991.

How many acres of potatoes are you growing and what varieties? We raise 277 planted acres, 35 different

We are also growing seed for McCain Foods, Schroeder Bros. Farms,

Above: Rick Hafner checks potato depth in a field. Rick spent many days during Clover Spacek’s first harvest and planting seasons at the helm, giving her advice, tweaking equipment and being a second set of eyes.

J.W. Mattek & Sons, Wirz, Inc., Rine Ridge Farms, Miller Farms, Guenthner Farms, Bula Potato Co., Baginski Farms, Johnson Bros., Agristo, and HZPC.

continued on pg. 18

BC�T November 17

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 17

How are you able to keep the early generation seed clean and disease and pest free? Keeping the seed clean and disease free is a challenge.

Our seclusion from other seed or potato production is a big help, but it still takes vigilant care to keep the crop clean.

We also have the challenge of keeping our seed crop varietally pure.

When you have 30-plus varieties in any given year, it is absolutely necessary that every piece of equipment is checked thoroughly at harvest, planting and shipping. We spend a lot of time cleaning!

All seed grown on the farm is nuclear seed, so it hasn’t been planted in soil elsewhere, but instead in a greenhouse. Why is that important? Is that unusual for a seed potato farm? You are correct—all seed is purchased from nuclear greenhouse production,

From left to right in the potato storage building are Derek Thiel, Clover Spacek, Mary Lepke, Janelle West, and Charles Lepke.

primarily from Sklarczyk Seed Farm and CSS Farms. This is important because we grow only earlygeneration or Years 1 and 2 seed potatoes.

We are, as I say, seed for seed. So, we grow and sell to other seed growers.

This means we need to keep our seed very disease free and varietally pure, so the next seed grower can keep the seed for two more years to then sell to a commercial grower.

As far as being unusual, there are multiple farms that do small volumes of mini tubers or Year 1 (YR1) production on their farms. Many times, it is for their own seed use, but there are also several other farms growing early generation seed across the country.

This is a question I have been asking since I started. Where does ERSF fit in regarding the size of early generation seed farms. I still don’t know, but it has been confirmed we are the largest mini tuber/YR1 grower for Frito-Lay at this time, so that is really cool.

Growing mini tubers is a unique challenge. We have seed lots from 0.10 acre to 14 acres. We planted 60 acres of mini tubers this spring and we plan to continue to increase that number in the future.

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18 BC�T November

We invested in an Erme mini tuber planter in 2023 and used it to plant this past spring. There is a bit of a

learning curve with any new planter, but it will be a big upgrade to what we were using and will cut our planting time in half.

Was Eagle River Seed Farm already owned by the Wysocki Family of Companies when you started with the farm, and are there advantages to being owned by a relatively large operation? Yes, Wysocki Family Farms was in sole ownership of the ERSF when I started. One advantage to being part of a bigger farm is the shared resources that ERSF could not supply or afford on its own.

The story that I enjoy telling involves the morning that three full-time employees decided to quit. I made two calls that morning, one to human resources and one to A.J. Bussan.

A.J. is my boss and helps with management of the farm. Within three hours of that phone call to A.J., we had one of their best combine operators at Wysocki Produce Farm up here to get our oats harvested.

By the end of the week, we had Kirk Wille and Gary Wysocki up here full-time to help us prepare and get through potato harvest. The support we receive from the home farm is outstanding.

A.J. checks in with me weekly and provides support and advice anytime I need it. He has been key to helping move our seed business forward.

We also work with Greg Dalsbo in agronomy and O.J. Wojtalewicz in maintenance. They both make trips up to the farm to help us as we need it and are always a phone call away as well.

We have had multiple retired owners who remain active and spend time at ERSF just to understand seed compared to what they have done in the commercial sector all these years.

We cannot share equipment because we are seed and they are commercial, but due to our smaller size, some of their equipment that is

continued on pg. 20 BC�T November 19

Interview. . .

continued from pg. 19

obsolete is perfect for us. So, we get the opportunity to upgrade without breaking the bank.

How do Paragon Potato Farms and Wysocki Produce Farm fit into the equation? Each of the arms of Wysocki Family Farms come together

20 BC�T November

with the same core values and vision for the future.

It is an exciting time as Wysocki Family Farms has recently moved to the fourth generation of ownership and we have a new CEO leading us into the next chapter. We also

Left: Janelle West is ready with seeds on deck for the seed-cutting machine.

Right: During the 2022 Industry Show, in Stevens Point, Clover Spacek was presented with a nice card for her service in the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program. From left to right are seed potato growers Jeff Suchon, Charlie Husnick, Roy Gallenberg, and Clover.

share services in HR, Finance, IT and management.

Wysocki Produce Farm also gives ERSF the opportunity to move excess seed or seed that does not make foundation status. Though that does not happen often, it is a huge perk to have an outlet.

Many of my customers are also seed suppliers to Wysocki Produce Farm.

We are all working towards the same goals and that is really neat to be a part of.

What do you feel your most important duties as farm manger are? Keeping it all together! Keeping people safe and aware that no matter what needs to get done, no potato is worth a human life. Knowing all the happenings and making sure we are all communicating to get the needed tasks done in a timely fashion.

Maintaining strong relationships with customers.

What do you strive for every day?

A positive attitude. Farming is a tough career, and we face more challenges every year. Staying positive for my team is very important.

I appreciate each and every person who has answered my questions and given me support. I was blessed to join the potato industry in 2016 as an inspector for the University of Wisconsin, and I had amazing mentors there.

I also was taken in by the seed growers of Wisconsin who helped me learn and grow in my position. When I received the opportunity to become a seed grower myself, I was honored

Is there anything I’ve missed that you’d like to add? I have namedropped so many people, and I know I have forgotten or not mentioned so many. I would not be in this position today without all the people I have worked with, been mentored by or met along the way.

As many became my customers, they also continued to help answer my questions and support me in my new role. As a member of Wysocki Family Farms, I now have made connections and have more great mentors from the commercial world.

I am blessed to work with my best friend and husband everyday doing something I truly love.

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Do you have a favorite spot or activity on the farm? The fields are my favorite. Putting that seed in the ground, watching it grow and seeing that potato go into the warehouse in September. There’s nothing like that sense of accomplishment to me.

What do you hope for the future of Eagle River Seed Farm? Growth. The future at ERSF is so bright right now.

The Wysocki family is committed to investing in the infrastructure of buildings, irrigation, and land improvements. They see the need for, and importance of, clean seed.

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BC�T November 21

Wisconsin Hosts Reverse Trade Mission Three major Mexican produce companies and the Mexico City central market represented

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater The Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA), grower members, Hancock Agricultural Research Station (HARS),

and the Food + Farm Exploration Center hosted Mexican produce buyers from NaturaSol, Kronchis, and the Central de Abasto-Mexico

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City (CEDA) wholesale market for a Reverse Trade Mission, September 30-October 4.

The purpose of the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission was to promote the sale of Wisconsin potatoes for export to Mexico, gain more knowledge of the Mexican markets, and meet with potential table stock and chip stock importers.

Attendees included Rubén Ríos of CEDA, Mexico City’s largest wholesale market; Juan Carlos Díaz and Omar Arch of Kronchis (pronounced Crunchies), a snack producer Above: One of several tour stops along the way on the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission was Coloma Farms during potato harvest.

Shown from left to right are Rubén Ríos of CEDA (Mexico City’s wholesale market); Peter Joyce, a consultant for the WPVGA; Reynaldo Santamaría, Enrique Martínez and Brenda Reyes of NaturaSol; Joe Kertzman, Badger Common’Tater; and Juan Carlos Díaz and Omar Arch from Kronchis.

interested in importing Wisconsin chip stock; and Brenda Reyes, Enrique Martínez and Reynaldo Santamaría of NaturaSol, which purchases roughly 15 loads of chip stock from the United States weekly and anticipates importing 30 loads per week in 2025.

Also in attendance were Peter Joyce, a consultant and multilingual interpreter contracted by the WPVGA, Joe Kertzman, managing editor of the Badger Common’Tater, and WPVGA Executive Director Tamas Houlihan.

Over the course of three full days, the group enjoyed tours and visits to the Alsum Farms & Produce grading, packing and storage facility, and an Alsum Farms potato field in Grand Marsh; Heartland Farms and the Top Tier Ingredients potato flake and flour plant; Okray Family Farms; the Food + Farm Exploration Center; Hyland Lakes Spuds; Coloma Farms; HARS and the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Storage Research Facility

(SRF); and Gary Bula Farms.

POTATO HARVEST Potato harvest was in full swing during their journey from Alsum’s in Friesland and Grand Marsh to Heartland Farms of Hancock, Okray Family Farms in Plover, Hyland Lakes Spuds of Antigo, Coloma Farms, and Gary Bula Farms in Oxford.

Above: Juan Carlos Díaz (left) of Kronchis and Reynaldo Santamaría from NaturaSol took the opportunity to ride along in the tractor during potato harvest at the Alsum Farms & Produce north farm in Grand Marsh.

Attendees witnessed firsthand how potatoes and vegetables are harvested in a sustainable, efficient manner by some of the world’s continued on pg. 24

SNOWDEN • ATLANTIC • LAMOKA MANISTEE • LADY LIBERTY MACKINAW • PETOSKEY • BLISS

Contact: Jim or John

BC�T November 23

Wisconsin Hosts Reverse Trade Mission . . . continued from pg. 23

most respected growing operations.

Some visitors even rode along in the harvesters, dug potatoes by hand, tasted them directly in the field, and experienced high-tech presentations and museum-quality exhibits.

They were impressed with the type of research and facilities that Wisconsin growers conduct and build to evaluate and improve their production quality.

During the Reverse Trade Mission, Mexican visitors were introduced to the Wisconsin Healthy Grown© program by Program Coordinator Deana Knuteson and given a tour of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable SRF by Facility Manager Amber Walker and HARS Superintendent Troy Fishler.

The Wisconsin potato industry is known as a national leader in

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sustainable production and has developed the Healthy Grown program, allowing growers to compete in an international marketplace increasingly demanding food grown using ecologically friendly practices.

VALUE OF HEALTHY GROWN After Knuteson’s presentation on the Healthy Grown program, one Mexican produce buyer indicated that, since he sells potato chips and table stock to Walmart and Costco, it could be useful to have the Healthy Grown seal on fresh bags, and that he’d take the information back to his team in Mexico to discuss how they could make that happen.

Left: Mexican produce buyers were duly impressed by the Top Tier Ingredients potato flake and flour plant in Hancock, Wisconsin. From left to right are Josh Knights, Heartland Farms; Enrique Martínez and Reynaldo Santamaría of NaturaSol; Omar Arch, Kronchis; Jeremie Pavelski, Heartland Farms; Juan Carlos Díaz, Kronchis; Brenda Reyes, NaturaSol; Peter Joyce, WPVGA consultant; and Rubén Ríos, CEDA. Right: Enrique Martínez (left) and Brenda Reyes of NaturaSol consult with Peter Joyce (right) about potatoes displayed at Festival Foods, in Stevens Point, during a retail visit as part of the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission.

continued on pg. 26

24 BC�T November

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Wisconsin Hosts Reverse Trade Mission . . . continued from pg. 24

It is estimated that 50% of potatoes in Mexico are sold through 64 different wholesale markets, while the other 50% are purchased through supermarkets that have their own distribution channels. Mexico has roughly 750,000 street markets that buy at wholesale compared to about 3,000 Walmart grocery stores.

The WPVGA is fully utilizing funds from an Export Expansion Grant awarded by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (WDATCP) to cover expenses for the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission.

The WPVGA and grower members

26 BC�T November

Above: Reynaldo Santamaría (left), NaturaSol, and Omar Arch, Kronchis, take pictures of a four-pack of potatoes packaged at the Okray Family Farms grading and packing facility, in Plover.

Right: Technology exhibits at the Food + Farm Exploration Center were a highlight of the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission.

also took advantage of previous WDATCP Export Expansion Grants to attend the 2023 Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) Convention and Trade Show in Toronto, Canada. The Association exhibited a second time at the CPMA Show, April 23-25, 2024, in Vancouver, British Columbia.

In March 2024, WPVGA representatives and grower members attended Expo ANTAD in Guadalajara, Mexico. At a meeting in conjunction with Expo ANTAD, the WPVGA met representatives from CEDA, NaturaSol and Kronchis who expressed interest in buying Wisconsin potatoes.

Above: Reverse Trade Mission attendees pose with Keith Wolter (fourth from left) in a Hyland Lakes Spuds storage shed. From left to right are Reynaldo Santamaría, Peter Joyce, Brenda Reyes, Keith, Juan Carlos Díaz, Omar Arch, Enrique Martínez and Rubén Ríos.

Left: Produce buyers from Mexico got an up-close look at Coloma Farms potato harvest.

In the first image, Enrique Martínez (left) and Rubén Ríos hold red potatoes grown for the Little Potato Company. In the second photo, from left to right on the harvester, are Omar Arch, Enrique Martínez, Juan Carlos Díaz, Rubén Ríos, and Brenda Reyes. continued on pg. 28

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BC�T November 27

Wisconsin Hosts Reverse Trade Mission . . . continued from pg. 27

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Above: Potatoes are separated into crates at the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Research Storage Facility. From left to right are Brenda Reyes, Enrique Martínez, Reynaldo Santamaría, Rubén Ríos, HARS Superintendent Troy Fishler, Peter Joyce, Juan Carlos Díaz, and Omar Arch.

Left: Tamra “Tammy” Bula-Garz (center) and Peter Joyce show potatoes grown at Gary Bula Farms for the Little Potato Company to attendees of the Mexican Reverse Trade Mission.

Right: Joe Huber (right) of Alsum Farms cut a potato in half so he could show it to, from left to right, Reynaldo Santamaría, Juan Carlos Díaz, Omar Arch, Brenda Reyes, and Enrique Martínez.

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Bottom: Posing in front of the Gary Bula Farms sign are, from left to right, Omar Arch, Juan Carlos Díaz, Reynaldo Santamaría, Tammy Bula-Garz, Gary Bula, Brenda Reyes, Enrique Martínez, Rubén Ríos and Peter Joyce.

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BC�T November 29

Now News

UW Expands Water Quality Research & Outreach Goal is to find solutions to protect groundwater quality in the Central Sands The University of Wisconsin (UW)Madison Division of Extension Agriculture Water Quality Program is thrilled to announce a major expansion in water quality research and outreach efforts in Wisconsin’s Central Sands region.

Thanks to funding support from the Rural Partnership Institute, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture, the UW Division of Extension is launching new projects to develop and implement innovative

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yet practical agricultural solutions that protect groundwater quality.

Agriculture Water Quality Program and Discovery Farms specialists would love for you to get involved in this exciting initiative! Visit https://www.facebook.com/ reel/514904331269579 to watch the full video announcement.

The Central Sands region is known for its sandy soils, which unfortunately don’t hold water or nutrients well.

This makes groundwater highly vulnerable to nitrate contamination from agricultural practices. But with your help, the program is aiming to find solutions to minimize nitrate leaching.

Above: University of Wisconsin Outreach Specialist Guolong Liang talks about a major expansion in water quality research and outreach efforts in the Central Sands region via a video announcement on the Ag Water Quality/Discovery Farms Facebook page. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ reel/514904331269579 to watch the full video announcement.

The goal is to develop practical, economically viable solutions to improve groundwater quality and support resilient agriculture.

More specifically, it is to conduct applied research on the best solutions in agriculture, improve groundwater quality and provide local communities with science-based information to drive adoption of conservation practices.

Interdisciplinary Research Informs Real-life Decision-Making • Innovative Agricultural Practices: We’re working on techniques like cover cropping, inter-seeding cover crops in vegetable rotation, and applying organic matter amendments to retain nitrogen and reduce leaching.

• Optimizing Nitrogen Use: We’ll build and analyze a yield response dataset for potatoes and vegetables. We will also use technologies like remote sensing and Artificial Intelligence to finetune nitrogen management during the growing season.

• Real-Time Irrigation Nitrate Measurement Tools: We’re developing tools for real-time nitrate measurement in irrigation water and integrating local weather data to better manage nitrogen application.

• Community and Economic Impact Assessment: Changes in nitrogen use, crop production and farm profits will be estimated for the Central Sands region based on observed and projected farmer adoption of the new practices described above.

field days demonstrating ongoing research efforts on both research stations and on-farm in the upcoming seasons.

miss these opportunities.

•A ttend Seminars and Field Days: We will also host an Agriculture Water Quality Field Day in the summer of 2025 in Central Wisconsin.

• Innovation Farms: Successful research solutions will be demonstrated on commercial farms.

How You Can Get Involved We’d love to have you join us!

Here’s how you can participate: • Get up-to-date educational content from our social media: We will post our outreach videos as well as event updates on our UW Division of Extension Ag Water Quality/ Discovery Farms Facebook page at http//www.facebook.com/ uwdiscoveryfarms. Follow us on Facebook and interact with us through each post! We will also post upcoming events related to this project there so that you don’t

The most popular varieties of these world-class hybrids are going fast.

Have any questions or ideas for collaborations? We are here for you! Contact project leads Dr. Jed Colquhoun at colquhoun@wisc.edu and outreach specialist Guolong Liang at gliang6@wisc.edu.

We’ll be sharing more details soon as this exciting project gets underway. Together, we can make a real difference in water quality and agricultural sustainability in the Central Sands region.

Thank you for your commitment to improving our water quality and supporting sustainable agriculture.

We can’t wait to work with you! continued on pg. 32

Wisconsin’s Highest Yielding Corn and Soybean Varieties Are At

Visit with Wayne, Ann, Julie, Sammi, Mike and Brady today to secure the top performing hybrids. Don’t delay, these seeds are growing fast!

Show & Tell Based Outreach • Video Series: We will use videos to showcase both the research process outlined above and farmer experiences trying innovative practices in the Central Sands.

www. Jay-Mar.com Plover (715) 341-3445 800-236-2436

• Field Research Tours: We will host BC�T November 31

Now News. . .

continued from pg. 31

Compeer Financial Supports Relief Efforts

Donation helps farm credit system employees affected by recent disasters In early October, Compeer Financial’s Fund for Rural America donated $7,500 to the Farm Credit System Employee Relief Fund to support fellow Farm Credit employees impacted by recent hurricanes, flooding and other natural disasters.

“Our hearts go out to all who have been affected by the severe weather events in the Southeast,” says Jase Wagner, president and chief executive officer of Compeer Financial. “As a cooperative with a mission to serve agriculture and rural communities, we understand the importance of standing together with our fellow farm credit team members and member-owners as they work to

32 BC�T November

rebuild their communities and farm operations.”

The Farm Credit System Employee Relief Fund is available to all farm credit employees experiencing financial hardship due to natural disasters such as blizzards, hurricanes, wildfires and derechos.

The fund relies primarily on donations from farm credit employees and support from farm credit institutions.

More information is available on the Employee Relief Fund website, https://eafrelieffund.com/m/ FARMCREDIT. “Rural America is resilient because residents, businesses and community organizations support each other in both good times and bad,” Wagner says. “We hope this donation will help with recovery efforts so that affected individuals and communities can emerge stronger.”

AgroLiquid Strengthens Industry Partnerships Company tests and develops innovative solutions to enhance crop nutrition As the agricultural industry faces increasing demands for efficiency and sustainability, AgroLiquid is intensifying its collaborations with industry leaders to tackle some of the most pressing challenges in crop nutrition.

By partnering with experts across various sectors, AgroLiquid is at the forefront of testing and developing innovative solutions that help farmers optimize their fertilizer use while addressing the real-world struggles they encounter in the field.

Galynn Beer, national strategy and product management lead at AgroLiquid, explains the two key reasons why these partnerships are crucial.

“Testing crop nutrition in real-world environments enables us to make better recommendations that truly maximize the grower’s fertilizer dollar,” Beer says. “We collaborate with a range of industry partners, from those in crop protection to equipment manufacturers, to ensure that our products are tested in diverse conditions.”

farmers,” Beer says. “Our goal is to provide solutions that are not only effective, but also directly address the issues that impact growers’ productivity and profitability.”

In addition to improving product recommendations, these partnerships play a critical role in identifying the struggles growers face daily.

By fostering these partnerships, AgroLiquid demonstrates its dedication to continuous innovation and its unwavering focus on supporting the agricultural community. As the industry evolves, AgroLiquid remains committed to leading the way in crop nutrition through collaborative efforts that bring together the best minds and technologies in agriculture.

“Understanding these challenges firsthand allows us to develop better products that meet the real needs of

For more information on AgroLiquid and its industry partnerships, visit www.agroliquid.com.

“This includes examining the impact of different products, equipment types and application methods, such as spray tips, containment strategies and even aerial applications,” he adds. “We also assess the best placement and timing to ensure our recommendations are both practical and effective.”

REAL-WORLD TRIALS These real-world trials are essential for AgroLiquid to develop precise and reliable recommendations growers can trust. By working alongside other industry leaders, AgroLiquid ensures its products are not only tested rigorously, but also aligned with the latest advancements in agricultural technology and practices.

BC�T November 33

Marketplace Videos Feature Farmers & Sustainability

Campaign aims to highlight the quality and versatility of Wisconsin potatoes

By Dana Rady, WPVGA Director of Promotions and Consumer Education Wisconsin has long been known as a hub for agriculture, with its fertile soil and dedicated farmers producing some of the finest potatoes in the country.

This year, the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) is launching an exciting new

video campaign that aims to highlight not only the quality and versatility of Wisconsin potatoes, but also the hardworking farmers behind them.

The campaign focuses on four key themes: the high sustainability standards Wisconsin potato growers regularly practice, the fact that • Atlantic • Goldrush • Snowden • Norkotah • Silverton • Superior • Reveille

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34 BC�T November

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most Wisconsin farms are multigenerational family operations, the affordability of nutritious Wisconsin potatoes, and how versatile and kid friendly the wholesome vegetable is!

While each video begins with a different focal point, it transitions to the kitchen to feature cooking and family mealtime. The bigger picture is a complete story of field to fork that is attention-grabbing and educational.

Midwest Family Madison, out of Madison, worked with the WPVGA on producing four videos that will be released on social media channels and on the WPVGA website over the course of the year.

Above: Part of the crew who worked on/ participated in the new video campaign, on July 15, in the Central Sands are, back row, from left to right, WPVGA Director of Promotions Dana Rady; Liz Matzke, Midwest Family Madison marketing ag specialist; and Daniel Walsch of Plover River Farms in Stevens Point. In the front row, left to right, are Dana’s sons, 11-year-old Griffin and 9-year-old Easton.

The campaign marks the third year that the WPVGA Promotions Committee has worked with Midwest Family Madison with the goal of providing consumers education about where their food comes from, along with encouragement to “buy local, buy Wisconsin.”

TARGET AUDIENCE The campaign also marks a strategic endeavor by the Promotions Committee when it comes to getting in front of younger generations and meeting them where they are.

In today’s world, this isn’t in the confines of our comfort zones within our immediate growing areas.

For example, younger age groups who are classified as food and cooking enthusiasts, etc., in the Waukesha, Madison and La Crosse areas, are the ones who will see the Wisconsin potato videos and advertisements.

So, if you live in Stevens Point and you’re reading this thinking, “I am not seeing anything related to these videos,” don’t worry! That’s a good thing because you are not part of the targeted group for the campaign.

That said, you will still have the opportunity to check out the videos on WPVGA’s consumer site, www.wisconsinpotatoes.com and on WPVGA’s YouTube channel, https://www.youtube.com/@ wisconsinpotatoes.

Instead, it’s in larger cities on the outskirts of the state and almost exclusively online. As such, the campaign videos are positioned When you do, please take the extra to target certain individuals and step of sharing the videos to your age groups in specific geographic own social media channels. After all, 1 2024-10-08 am locations.11-24 Badger Common'Tater (7.25x2.25).v1.outlines.pdf the more we can spread the 9:09 word,

Left: Daniel Walsch of Plover River Farms, in Stevens Point, walks through one of the farm’s potato fields during production of the new videos on July 15.

Right: WPVGA Director of Promotions Dana Rady serves delicious Wisconsin potato dishes to her son, Easton, as part of the Midwest Family Madison video shoot at Mark and Shannon Finnessy’s house, in Wisconsin Rapids.

the more successful our industry will be!

A big thank you to the following individuals for their help with, and participation in, the video production that was produced on July 15 in the Central Sands: - Daniel Walsch of Plover River Farms in Stevens Point - Shannon and Mark Finnessy of Okray Family Farms in Plover, who were gracious enough to let us feature their kitchen.

BC�T November 35

People Ernie Bushman Passes Away Hall of Fame grower was extremely active in the potato industry Ernest “Ernie” J. Bushman, 97, of Galloway, Wisconsin, died peacefully on Tuesday, September 17, 2024, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

families. Ernie had a sweet tooth and always made sure to have his candy drawer stocked with his favorites.

Ernie usually had Tootsie Pops and Dum-Dums in his pocket.

Ernie was born on August 27, 1927, on a small dairy farm in the town of Franzen, near Galloway, the son of Joseph and Mary (Bluma) Bushman.

The couple loved to travel and found themselves in many locations throughout the world. They spent many years in Arizona and Alabama to escape the cooler weather. A famous quote was, “When the mountains turn pink, it is time for a drink.” That usually consisted of an old fashioned.

He was drafted into the United States Army on November 6, 1945, and was honorably discharged and has been a member of the American Legion for over 60 years.

On May 21, 1949, Ernie was united in marriage to his “one and only love,” Mavis Zwirchitz, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Galloway. The couple celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary.

Family was very important to Ernie and Mavis, and they cherished the time spent together. They were very proud of their six children and their

Ernie was extremely active in the potato industry for many years.

He was president of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Board from 1983-’85. For his lifelong commitment to the potato industry, he was inducted into the WPVGA Hall of Fame in 1993. He was president of the National Potato Board (now

Ernest John Bushman August 27, 1927 – September 17, 2024

Potatoes USA), headquartered in Denver, from 1977-’78. He was also awarded the Super Star of Spuds in 1982.

SCHOOL BOARD & CIVIL SERVICE Ernie served on the WittenbergBirnamwood School Board for 15 years, four of those years as president. He also served in the Marathon County Civil Service Commission in Wausau for 24 years, six of those years as president.

Faith was of the upmost importance to Ernie. He was a member of St.

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Joseph’s Catholic Church, Galloway, and the Men’s Society. Ernie joined the Knights of Columbus, along with his father, brother and nephew, with the Wittenberg Council in 1960. They received their first degree on August 8, 1960, second and third degrees on September 15, 1960, and fourth degree on October 1, 1961, at the Wausau Council #1449.

Ernie served as Grand Knight and was extremely active at his church.

He was a former president of St. Joseph’s Parish Council, usher, and reader, participated as a Eucharistic minister of Holy Communion, and in the culture of life and Tootsie Roll programs.

He loved reading the daily mass from the Word Among Us and watching daily mass on EWTN. He recited many prayers and novenas to Our Blessed Mother Mary and always had special prayers to St. Joseph and the Holy Family, in his small office, which he called his “chapel.”

Ernie and Mavis were fortunate to share their blessings with many missions here at home, as well as throughout the world. The couple have been Samarian sponsors for over 40 years, in Africa, India and the United States.

Ernie was an avid golfer and loved his Thursday night men’s league at Maple Hills Golf Course. He was an avid Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers fan. Ernie looked forward to his weekly trip to the casino.

He had a wonderful sense of humor and was famous for his many quick quotes, such as “son of a pup” or “you dawg.” Ernie was a talker, and should you be out and about with Ernie, you would always be able to find him. All you needed to do was listen and you would hear him singing or saying “yabba-dabba-doo.”

ONE AND ONLY LOVE Ernie is survived by his “one and only love,” Mavis; children, Shelly (Kevin) Korger, Joe (Wendy) Bushman, Brian (Trisha Grezenski) Bushman, Laurie

(Bruce) Spranger and Angie (Kevin) Worzalla; and daughter-in-law, Connie Bushman.

He is further survived by his grandchildren, Amanda (Ian Straight) Bushman, Luke Bushman, Leah “Julian” (Nicole) Korger, Joe (Crystal) Bushman, Bethany (Kevin) Kersten, Jordan Bushman, Mallory (John) Schwalbach, Briana Hirsch, Ryan (Sammie Thomas) Bushman, Trevor (Lauren) Spranger, Haley (Kevin Borris) Spranger, Riley (Derek) Hoffman and Austin Worzalla; and great-grandchildren, Frankie, Aiden, Brennen, Jaxton, Drayden, Kiya, Mason, Micah, Mila, Malayna, Monte, Natalie, Nolan, Jacob, Madeline, Brady, Emma and Addilyn, as well as many other relatives and friends.

Ernie was preceded in death by his parents; two sons, John Michael in infancy and Gregory; siblings and in-laws, John (Sadie) Bushman, Harry (Alice) Bushman, Ann (Nick) Knitter,

Marion (Florence) Bushman and Bernice (Edward) Kleman.

A Mass of Christian Burial was held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Galloway. Monsignor Joseph Diermeier and Rev. Augustine Bentil concelebrated. Burial took place in the parish cemetery with military rites conducted by the Elderon Memorial Post #8068, VFW. Visitation was on Friday, September 20, 2024, with a Rosary recited by the Knights of Columbus at the church.

Visitation continued on Saturday until the time of Mass at the church.

Schmidt & Schulta Funeral Home, Wittenberg, assisted the family with funeral arrangements. Memories and messages of support may be shared at SchmidtSchulta.com.

The family would like to thank Ernie’s caregiver, Jenny, and Interim Hospice for their kind and compassionate care.

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2024 WISCONSIN CERTIFIED SEED POTATO GROWERS DIRECTORY Above: Cut seed potatoes are loaded into a planter at GP Ventures LLC in Antigo, Wisconsin.

PRIMARY BUSINESS PHONE NUMBERS ARE BOLD-FACED. BAGINSKI FARMS, INC. N3502 County H, Antigo, WI 54409 Office/Farm (715) 627-7753 Fax (715) 623-5412 Mike Baginski Cell 715-216-1240 Charlie Husnick Cell 715-216-3222 Mike Email mike@baginskifarms.com Charlie Email charlie@baginskifarms.com Acclimate, Baby Boomer, Caribou Russet, Colomba, Goldrush, Modoc, Norland (Red Selection), Plover Russet, Silverton, Superior 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 A08433-4STO, Caribou Russet, Galena Russet, Lady Liberty (NY152), Lakeview Russet (W9433-1Rus), Norland (Dark Red Selection), Mackinaw, Reveille Russet, Silverton, Umatilla Russet, W13103-2Y, Yukon Gold 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 John E 715-454-6201 Fax 715-757-2243 Email: bushmanriversideranch@gmail.com A08433-4SSTO, Caribou Russet, Silverton 38 BC�T November

CETS, LLC ASTRO TUBERSTM N77 W24677 Century Ct, Sussex WI 53089 Office (262) 246-1799 Fax (262) 246-1762 Cell (262) 391-4705 Website: www.cetstech.com EAGLE RIVER SEED FARM LLC Clover Spacek, General Manager 4334 Chain of Lakes Road, Eagle River, WI 54521 Eagle River Warehouse (715) 628-2198 ext. 5 Clover Spacek Cell (715) 218-9173 Clover Spacek Email clover.spacek@wfc.ag Bliss- NY163, Caribou Russet, Colomba, Christel, CW08221-5Rus, Dakota Russet, Frito-Lay Varieties, Fontane, Lakeview Russet, Lamoka, Mackinaw, Modoc, Norland (Dark Red Selection-Z), MSBB058-1, MSZ242-13, NY-177, Paroli, Petoskey, Reveille Russet, Silverton, Snowden, Umatilla Russet FLEISCHMAN, DAVID FARMS N2568 Cty Hwy HH, Antigo, WI 54409 Office (715) 623-6353 Cell (715) 216-2343 Fax (715) 627-0183 Email davidfleischmanfarms@gmail.com Caribou Russet, Goldrush, Mercury Russet, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Norland (Red Selection), Russet Norkotah, Silverton, Superior, Yukon Gold PEPSICO AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE 4295 Tenderfoot Rd, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Office 715-365-1648 Stephanie Nordquist Cell 620-791-8808 Frito-Lay Varieties GALLENBERG FARMS, INC. W7932 Edison Road, Bryant, WI 54418 Farm (715) 623-7018

Roy Gallenberg (715) 216-0983 John Gallenberg (715) 623-2295 Email rgallenberg@hotmail.com Goldrush, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Oneida Gold (W6703-1Y), Red Prairie (W8405-1R), Superior

Email khafner1@hotmail.com Atlantic, Goldrush, Lady Liberty, Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah, Silverton, Snowden, Superior

GP VENTURES, INC. N3120 Western Ave PO Box 320, Antigo, WI 54409 Office (715) 623-7877 Fax (715) 623-7127 Jim Kennedy (715) 623-7877 Email gpci.office.assistant@gmail.com Agata, Fontane, Frito-Lay Varieties, Jelly, Paige, Petoskey GUENTHNER FARMS, INC. N4653 Chillie Rd, Antigo, WI 54409 Farm (715) 627-7683 Bill Guenthner (715) 627-2792 Fax (715) 627-0507 Christel, Langlade, Paroli, Red LaSoda 10-3 HAFNER SEED FARMS, INC. W8243 County B, Bryant, WI 54418 Office/Warehouse (715) 623-6829 FAX (715) 623-4203 David Hafner (715) 216-1473 Kevin Hafner (715) 216-1606 Brad Hafner (715) 216-1603

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 Goldrush, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Norland (Red Selection), Russet Norkotah, Superior, W13103-2Y 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, Hodag, Lady Liberty, Mackinaw, 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, Lady Liberty, Langlade, Paige, Petoskey, Red LaSoda 10-3

continued on pg. 40

Quality Growers of Foundation and Certified Seed Potatoes for Over 50 Years!

Yellows:

Reds:

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Whites: Superior

Russets:

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WISCONSIN N3502 Hwy H • Antigo, WI 54409 CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES Office: 715-627-7753 • Fax: 715-623-5412 • mike@baginskifarms.com BC�T November 39

2024 Seed Directory. . . continued from pg. 39

MATTEK, J. W. & SONS, INC. N5798 Star Neva Rd, Deerbrook, WI 54424 Farm/Office (715) 623-6963 Fax (715) 627-7245 Jim Mattek (715) 623-7391 John Mattek (715) 623-6864 Jim Mattek Cell (715) 216-0599 Email jwmattek@gmail.com Atlantic, Bliss-NY163, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lady Liberty (NY152), Lamoka, Mackinaw, Manistee, Petoskey, Silverton, Snowden MYTHIC FARMS/VERMONT VALLEY 4628 CTH FF, Blue Mounds, WI 53517 Jesse Perkins 608-212-7816 Email jesse@mythicfarm.com Website www.mythicfarm.com Adirondack Blue, Adirondack Red, Austrian Crescent, AW08112-4P/Y, Carola, French Fingerling, German Butterball, Goldrush, Kennebec, Magic Molly, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Oneida Gold (W6703-1Y), Peter Wilcox, Red Gold, Red Pontiac, Red Prairie (W8405-1R), Superior, Yukon Gold NORTHERN SAND FARMS 11065 CTH M, Crandon, WI 54520 Stan Bula (715) 889-2911 Email stan.bula76@gmail.com

40 BC�T November

Website www.northernsandfarms.com Adirondack Blue, Adirondack Red, Austrian Crescent, Carola, German Butterball, Kennebec, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Magic Molly, Oneida Gold (W6703-1Y), Peter Wilcox, Red Gold, Red Prairie, Red Pontiac, Silverton, Superior, Viking, Yukon Gold RINE RIDGE FARMS, INC. W8132 County O, Bryant, WI 54418 Farm/Office (715) 627-4819 WATS (888) 853-5690 Fax (715) 627-4810 Dan Rine Cell (715) 216-0765 Ken Rine Cell (715) 216-0760 Email rinerdg21@gmail.com Bliss-NY163, Dakota Russet, Lady Liberty (NY152), Lamoka, Mackinaw, Petoskey SCHROEDER BROS. FARMS, INC./SCHROEDER FARMS, LTD. N1435 County D, Antigo, WI 54409 Office/Farm (715) 623-2689 Fax (715) 627-4857 North Warehouse (715) 627-7022 John T. Schroeder (715) 216-0174 Pete Schroeder (715) 216-0177 Robert Schroeder (715) 216-0169 Eric Schroeder Cell (715) 216-0186 Pete Email farm@sbfi.biz

John T Email johnt@sbfi.biz Eric Email eric@sbfi.biz Atlantic, Auburn Glow, Bliss- NY163, Caribou Russet, Frito-Lay Varieties, Goldrush, Lamoka, Mackinaw, Manistee, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Plover Russet (W9133-1Rus), Prairie Sun TT08-024/20, Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah Sel 8, Russet Norkotah TX296, Silverton, Snowden 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, Mackinaw, Norland (Red Selection), Reveille Russet, Russet Norkotah, Snowden SOWINSKI FARMS, INC. - CERTIFIED SEED 4698 Tenderfoot Road, Rhinelander, WI 54501 Paul Sowinski (715) 272-1192 John Hein (715) 550-9010 Farm/Office (715) 369-3225 Fax (715) 369-3226 Email sfiseedfarm@gmail.com Atlantic, Bliss-NY163, Frito-Lay Varieties, Lady Liberty, Manistee, Snowden SUNNYDALE FARMS, INC. W9751 County I, Bryant, WI 54418 Farm (715) 627-7401

Mike Shafel Cell (715) 216-4531 Email sunnydaleseed@yahoo.com Atlantic, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Red Prairie (W84051R), Snowden, Superior TREMBLING PRAIRIE FARMS, INC N2575 County Road B, Markesan, WI 53946 Fax 920-394-3926 John Bobek 920-295-9072 Email john@tremblingprairiefarms.com Alegria, Norland (Dark Red Selection), Norland (Red Selection), Red Prairie 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 Mobile (715) 350-9165 Email wirzinc@yahoo.com Website www.wirzinc.com Atlantic, Lamoka, Manistee, Snowden

Bushman’s Riverside Ranch Specializing in Silverton and Caribou Russets

Seed Cutting & Suberization is Available!

Contact: Jeff Suchon, Farm Manager 715-757-2160 office • 715-927-4015 cell

Or call Jonathon or John E. Bushman: 715-454-6201 715-454-6201 BC�T November 41

Portage County Ag Tour Stops at Top Tier Ingredients Heartland Farms welcomes community members ready to learn about potato production

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater Reservations filled up fast for the 2024 Portage County Agriculture Tour, September 11, with a bevy of guests gathering at Mission Coffee

House in the Artist & Fare complex, Plover, Wisconsin, for a bus ride to Heartland Farms and Top Tier Ingredients, LLC, with both industry-

leading operations in Hancock.

At Heartland Farms, visitors experienced the legacy of a fifthgeneration potato and vegetable farm tracing its roots back to the 1800’s when the Pavelski family first planted seeds.

Today, under the leadership of Jeremie Pavelski, the farm is a beacon of teamwork, cutting edge technology, and groundbreaking innovation.

The beautiful Wisconsin fall day was a bit too warm for attendees of the Portage County Ag Tour to witness the bustle of harvest, as potato pulp temperatures were too warm that afternoon to dig tubers out of the ground.

Above: The 2024 Portage County Ag Tour included stops at Heartland Farms, where the group posed for a photo, and Top Tier Ingredients, LLC, both industry-leading operations in Hancock, Wisconsin.

42 BC�T November

But they did experience the meticulous storage of potatoes and advanced technologies that ensure the community’s produce is of the highest quality and sustainably grown.

In her typical fashion, Karen Myers, director of programs and events for the Portage County Business Council, left no stone unturned and made sure the tour ran according to plan and without a hitch.

As one bus rider said as we pulled into Heartland Farms precisely on time, at 12:15 p.m., “That’s Karen for you. She is so detail oriented and loves planning events. She was even like that in high school.”

Lunch was provided, and Pavelski greeted guests and spoke about the environmental mindset of Wisconsin growers, and how they work together, collaborating. “You don’t see that in other states,” he commented.

FARMING FOR THE FUTURE He also talked about the Farming for the Future Foundation, which the Pavelski family was instrumental in planning and developing, and how, “If you dream it, you can build it.”

Karen Myers, director of programs and events for the Portage County Business Council, thanked sponsors of the tour, including Heartland Farms, where the picture was taken, CliftonLarsonAllen, Dahl Honda and Dahl Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep/RAM, Del Monte Foods, Inc., and Okray Family Farms.

continued on pg. 44

Seed Potatoes Certified and Foundation WHITES

• Atlantic • Snowden • Superior

REDS

• Dark Red Norland • Red Prairie

Call Mike Shafel (715) 216-4531

sunnydaleseed@yahoo.com Farm Office: 715-627-7401

W9751 HIGHWAY I BRYANT, WISCONSIN 54418 BC�T November 43

Portage County Ag Tour Stops at Top Tier Ingredients. . . continued from pg. 43

That sentiment includes the Farm Operations, Technology and Training Center at Heartland Farms where the guests were seated for lunch and presentations.

It also includes a lot of the variablerate irrigation technology that Heartland Farms was instrumental in developing, one of the first potato rinse plants for chipping potatoes

in the area, and energy efficient facilities found throughout the farming operation.

Pavelski spoke about utilizing solar energy, variable frequency drives, remote vehicle and equipment monitoring, variable-rate irrigation (controlling every single nozzle on the irrigation systems), working with the power company to reduce peak demand on the grid, and even an efficient truck fleet.

“We did a study and found out that our vehicles were idling 15% of the time,” he said. “We reduced it to 10% and saved 40,000 gallons of fuel.”

Another example of, “If you dream it, you can build it,” is Top Tier Ingredients, which was the next stop on the tour. Established in 2022 as an innovative sister company to Heartland Farms, Top Tier Ingredients is the only food-grade potato flake and flour manufacturing facility in the Midwest.

The impressive, sparkling new facility integrates the newest sustainability and technology practices, as well as cutting-edge equipment, and runs 20 hours a day.

Built to provide another market opportunity here in Wisconsin for continued on pg. 46

Above: Jeremie Pavelski (left) of Heartland Farms gave visitors a tour of the operation’s potato grading, sorting, and storage facilities.

44 BC�T November

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Portage County Ag Tour Stops at Top Tier Ingredients. . . continued from pg. 44

Heartland Farms and other growers, the potato flake and flour plant gives Heartland—a key supplier to the facility—the ability to provide an integrated supply chain for its customers.

The facility can process potatoes that are slightly bruised or damaged.

An integral step in producing flake involves steam peeling. By doing this, any defect is removed, and it makes a high-quality flake.

GROWING MARKET This also helps ensure the right potato goes to the right place and enhances the overall quality of the supply chain. According to the Pavelski’s, there is a large and growing market for potato flake and flour, particularly in the Midwest.

Most of the equipment for the plant was purchased from Idaho Steel Products, a leading manufacturer in the potato flake space. Top Tier

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The new facility has already won a couple awards, and Heartland Farms utilized its own in-house automation expertise to enhance it even more.

Potato flour is made by grinding the potato flake into flour. Potatoes are initially washed, sorted, and put through a steam peeler. They are then scrubbed, cut, and sometimes blanched and cooled, depending on the product, then cooked, and put through a ricer.

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Ingredients also utilized J.H. Findorff to build the facility and contracted with other local suppliers.

Above: Top Tier Ingredients was the next stop on the tour. Established in 2022 as an innovative sister company to Heartland Farms, Top Tier Ingredients is the only foodgrade potato flake and flour manufacturing facility in the Midwest.

After the ricer, the ingredients make their way to a large drum and come out as long sheets of essentially potato paper. There are further milling, screening, and detection steps to ensure the safety of the product, and the finished potato flour is then sent to customers.

One of the reasons Top Tier Ingredients experiences continued demand is that potato flour is a good alternative to wheat flour or corn starch. Potato flour is gluten free and high in fiber, carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamins B and C.

“We did a study and found out that our vehicles were idling 15% of the time.

We reduced it to 10% and saved 40,000 gallons of fuel.”

– Jeremie Pavelski, Heartland Farms

It is also low in fat, so there’s is a lot to like about it!

There are a lot of everyday potato flour uses that probably wouldn’t come to mind for many people, including as an ingredient in snack products, soups, and sauces. Potato flour is also used to thicken the outside layer of French fries, resulting in those crunchy fries everyone loves.

Potato flake can be used for mashed potatoes, potato salads, soups, and

stews, and is found in various breads and rolls. Potato flake and flour are also utilized to make many types of chips and other snack foods. The list goes on from there.

As far as the group assembled at the plant, the final stop on their tour was back at the Artist & Fare, home to Oso’s Brewing Company and an optional cash bar and networking opportunities for those not quite ready for the day to end.

According to the Jeremie Pavelski, there is a large and growing market for potato flake and flour, particularly in the Midwest.

BC�T November 47

Auxiliary News

By Dakotah Smiley, Vice President, WPGA

Hello, all.

As the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary (WPGA) approaches its 50th anniversary, there has never been a better time to get involved with this vital organization. For half a century, the WPGA has been a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s potato and vegetable industry, providing support, advocacy, and education.

This milestone is a celebration of the Auxiliary’s longstanding commitment to promoting the state’s farming heritage, and it’s an exciting opportunity for new members to join and help shape the future of Wisconsin agriculture.

The WPGA offers a unique opportunity for individuals to actively support and promote one of Wisconsin’s most important agricultural sectors—potato and vegetable farming.

By becoming a member, you join a passionate community of advocates and industry supporters who are dedicated to advancing the industry through education, outreach, and advocacy.

Beyond professional development, the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary (WPGA) is also about community involvement and service. Members participate in events and activities, such as the Wisconsin State Fair, that bring together potato growers, their families, and supporters from across the state. A line at the WPGA baked potato booth during the 2023 State Fair speaks to the popularity of the annual fundraiser.

Whether you’re directly involved in farming or simply have a deep appreciation for agriculture, the WPGA provides a meaningful way to get involved.

One of the key benefits of joining the WPGA is the opportunity to participate in educational outreach

efforts. The organization is committed to raising awareness about the importance of Wisconsin’s potato industry, not only in terms of economic impact, but also regarding sustainable farming practices.

Members have the chance to engage with local communities, schools, and organizations to promote the nutritional value and versatility of potatoes, helping to build a broader understanding of the industry’s significance.

NETWORKING OPPORTUNITIES Membership also provides valuable networking opportunities. The WPGA fosters collaboration among growers, industry professionals, and advocates, offering a platform for members to share knowledge, resources, and experiences.

48 BC�T November

These connections can lead to new business opportunities, partnerships, and innovations that enhance the overall success of Wisconsin’s potato industry.

Beyond professional development, the WPGA is also about community involvement and service. Members participate in events and activities, such as the Wisconsin State Fair, that bring together potato growers, their families, and supporters from across the state.

These gatherings create a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose, as everyone works toward the common goal of strengthening Wisconsin’s agricultural roots.

Whether you’re passionate about agriculture, interested in advocacy, or simply looking to be part of a supportive community, the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary offers a rewarding experience.

By joining, you can contribute to the

Karen Rasmussen (left) and Carole Gagas serve baked potatoes at the 2022 WPS Farm Show, in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, as part of a WPGA fundraiser.

growth and sustainability of one of the state’s most important industries while connecting with others who share your passion for farming and food production.

We’d love to have you! Find out how you can join by contacting any of our current members or by reaching out to Julie Braun at jbraun@

wisconsinpotatoes.com for more information.

Stay tuned for future articles that highlight the decades of the WPGA. Until next time,

Dakotah

Kakes Farms Ltd. W8539 Kakes Rd., Bryant, WI 54418

Foundation and Certified Seed Potatoes

Office: (715) 623-6348 Aaron Kakes: (715) 216-5281 • Josh Mattek: (715) 216-0595 BC�T November 49

Eyes on Associates

By WPVGA Associate Div. President Matt Selenske, Allied Coop’s Pest Pros Division

Hello, everyone. Hopefully,

as you read this, you have everything harvested and are working on the planning stages for next year. It’s hard to believe 2025 is right around the corner.

If you recall, the Associate Division Board along with other volunteers within the industry have put together a Student Recruitment Program to showcase the potato and vegetable industry to high school, technical

college and university students interested in agriculture and related fields.

Students were invited to attend the 2024 Grower Education Conference

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& Industry Show, free of charge, where they were introduced to the program and industry, enjoyed research presentations, and visited trade show booths.

Then, in May, we hosted a Spring Student Recruitment Planting Day where students had a chance to see potato planting and attend a roundtable discussion about careers in the ag industry.

On September 19, the Student Recruitment Program continued with a Fall Harvest Day. We had over 30 students attend from area schools such as Fox Valley Technical College and Mid-State Technical College.

POTATO HARVEST Students met at the Food + Farm Exploration Center (F+FEC) and were shuttled to Wysocki Produce Farm to observe potato harvest. They

Above: Heath Erickson (facing camera), director of talent development at Wysocki Family of Companies, went over safety rules with students attending the Fall Harvest Day as part of the Student Recruitment Program.

spent time in the field as well as at a storage facility that was being filled. Afterward, they were transported to a Seneca sweet corn field to experience that harvest. continued on pg. 52

You can’t improve what you don’t measure

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WWW.TOLSMAUSA.COM BC�T November 51

Eyes On Associates. . . continued from pg. 51

After lunch at the F+FEC, students learned about potato diseases and storage management issues from Dr. Mike Copas, senior agronomist for Wysocki Family of Companies, and Natasha Paris, regional crops educator for the University of Wisconsin Division of Extension.

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Above: A.J. Bussan (right in the first image), director of agronomy for Wysocki Family of Companies, welcomed students to Paragon Farms where potatoes are grown for the fresh market, Frito-Lay and McCain Foods.

The goal, Bussan said, is to store bruise-free potatoes, shipping them out over the course of the year and up until the following August harvest so there’s always a year-round supply.

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Eyes On Associates. . . continued from pg. 52

Bobbi Kubish, director of educational programming at the F+FEC, also spoke for a few minutes about

careers in agriculture.

Our goals are to highlight the industry and get students to consider

careers in agriculture and related fields. Every time we host an event like this, we draw more students, and we are committed to continuing the program.

We are in the planning stages for the second annual Student Recruitment Day at the 2025 Grower Education Conference & Industry Show, in February, so be on the lookout for new faces walking around the show and conference.

In the meantime, have a great Thanksgiving.

Matt Selenske

WPVGA Associate Division President

P O Box 267, Monte Vista, CO 81144 ColoradoCertifiedPotatoGrowers.com Lyla@ColoradoCertifiedPotatoGrowers.com (719) 274-5996

54 BC�T November

Above: Jeff Sommers (left), partner in Wysocki Family of Companies and general manager of Wysocki Produce Farm, gave students a firsthand look at potato harvest, including a ride in the harvester. “We love having you out here,” Sommers said to students. “We can’t have enough good, quality ag workers. If you choose a career in agriculture, you’re filling a void in the field.

Hats off to you.”

Students experienced a Seneca Foods sweet corn harvest at Okray Family Farms, in Plover. Kevin Hirst (second from left in the last image), ag manager for Seneca, explained how the integral, high-tech parts of the harvester work. “Central Wisconsin is the best place in the world to grow vegetables,” Hirst said. “We have 170 semiloads of corn a day going out of the Central Sands during harvest season, and we’re averaging 9.4 tons per acre.”

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BC�T November 55

Badger Beat Direct Tuber Testing: Looking to the Future in Wisconsin Ensuring clean and pure seed requires ongoing and robust research

By Brooke Babler, associate program director of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program (WSPCP), and Dr. Amanda Gevens, professor, Extension specialist, and department chair, University of Wisconsin (UW)Madison Department of Plant Pathology, as well as administrative director of the WSPCP

Since 1913, the goal of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program (WSPCP) has been to provide seed potato planting stock that is both healthy and without varietal mixture. This goal continues to be the focal point of the program as we look to the future.

Ensuring clean and pure seed requires ongoing and robust research.

We continue to advance Wisconsin’s thriving seed potato industry through

our ongoing research endeavors with UW-Madison and program partners around the country.

In recent years, direct tuber testing

Above: Brooke Babler, associate WSPCP director, provides a program update during the 2023 Antigo Field Day at the Langlade County Agricultural Research Station.

(DTT) has become a leading pathogen diagnostic research interest to serve the U.S. potato industry and beyond.

Direct tuber testing is a technique used to test tuber tissue for multiple

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pathogens from a single 400-tuber sample.

It allows for earlier acquisition of diagnostic results than traditional methods, accurate detection of non-visual pathogens, provides an alternative testing option to the winter post-harvest grow-out, aligns U.S. diagnostic services with other potato-producing countries, and streamlines diagnostic services leading to cost reductions.

As more certification programs integrate DTT into their diagnostic programs, we believe an advanced hybrid diagnostic network could be developed by incorporating traditional methods such as the winter post-harvest grow-out and ELISA (defined as Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) leaf testing with DTT to better support the nation’s potato industry.

Research Initiative (SCRI) project.

This experimental diagnostic method focuses on extracting four tuber cores from each tuber in a 400-tuber sample, mashing 10-tuber composite samples, and then loading samples into a coated PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) plate.

If the virus is present, it will attach to a specific antibody in PCR wells and be detected with pathogen specific primers. This assay is being utilized

by select certification agencies, however it is currently limited to detecting only Potato Virus Y (PVY).

In 2017, a nationwide crowd sourcing project spearheaded by Jason Ingram and Dr. Melanie Filiatrault of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Agricultural Research Service examined the efficacy of testing tuber lots using an FTA (Flinders Technology continued on pg. 58

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We continue our research by following three key practical questions: 1) How does DTT fit into an advanced hybrid model?

2) What research is still needed to comfortably integrate DTT? 3) What is the general opinion regarding DTT? HISTORY OF DTT In the late 1990’s, the concept of DTT was introduced in Canada on Prince Edward Island and in New Brunswick with implementation as a diagnostic tool after validation. In 2009, the Netherlands introduced DTT, and after a four-year validation period, ending in 2013, it became their primary diagnostic approach.

Switzerland introduced DTT in 2013, with later adoption in 2016.

DTT gained traction in the United States in 2015 when a Potato Virus Y Immunocapture Polymerase Chain Reaction (PVY IC-PCR) assay was developed by Drs. Nina Zidack and Alice Pilgeram at Montana State University as a diagnostic research component of a larger Specialty Crop

continued on pg. 52

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Badger Beat. . .

continued from pg. 57

Associates) card PCR-based assay to detect PVY across all U.S. seed potato growing states.

This assay consists of excising four cores from each tuber in a 400-tuber sample, smashing them onto FTA cards in 25-tuber composite samples, and sending them to a private lab for analysis.

The project presented a strong PVY detection correlation between traditional and DTT methods but removing the cores and placing them on the FTA-cards was determined to be too time-consuming. Future research is focused on automating the excision and tuber core pressing processes to reduce processing time.

RECENT DTT RESEARCH The WSPCP has been actively researching and participating in DTT projects since 2016. We’ve worked closely with Montana State University

58 BC�T November

to trial the PVY IC-PCR assay and with Cornell University on the crowd sourcing project to explore the above-mentioned FTA-card approach.

Figure 1: The graph shows the mean percentage of PVY detected across three diagnostic methods: ELISA (pink bar), PVY IC-PCR (green bar), and visual field inspection (blue bar).

Left, Figure 2: A donut chart shows the comfort level of survey participants to perform or utilize DTT within their state.

Right, Figure 3: This graph indicates the comfort level of survey participants in utilizing an advanced hybrid diagnostic model.

In 2023, a large-scale DTT research project was performed in Wisconsin with the focus of examining the correlation between PVY IC-PCR, ELISA leaf testing, and visual field inspections.

Initial data analyses found no statistical difference between PVY IC-PCR and ELISA leaf testing methods performed on 100 tuber lots. However, there was a significant difference when comparing these two methods to visual field inspections (Figure 1).

This was not surprising, as recently developed potato varieties, and new strain types of the PVY pathogen complex, do not produce symptoms.

This further supports the need to have a robust and accurate diagnostic tool such as DTT to ensure diagnostic laboratories are equipped with the most effective tools.

Recently, the WSPCP spearheaded a nationwide DTT survey in collaboration with other certification agencies. The goal of the survey is to assess the opinions of stakeholder groups, including commercial growers, seed growers, certification staff, and industry partners, on the advantages and disadvantages of DTT. continued on pg. 60 BC�T November 59

Badger Beat. . .

continued from pg. 59

Survey results indicated that stakeholders are hesitant to accept DTT, but acceptance is growing with the continued integration of this tool and research findings that indicate efficiency and accuracy.

The survey also indicated that participants feel comfortable performing or utilizing DTT within their state (Figure 2), but further analysis outlined the need for more staffing, internal validation, equipment, and workshop training to fully establish DTT at the national level.

Lastly, survey participants were asked to rank how comfortable they felt implementing an advanced hybrid system where growers have the option to utilize DTT, the post-harvest grow-out, ELISA leaf testing, or a combination of the diagnostic tools.

Diagnostic Method Testing Material ELISA

Leaves

Visual Field Inspection

Plants

PVY IC-PCR

Tuber

Extraction-PCR

Tuber

Pros Inexpensive Thoroughly validated Detects varietal mixture Detects herbicide damage

Cons Grow-out required Decreased sensitivity Expensive Requires a field growout Symptom expression required

Inexpensive Reduced Only detect PVY processing time Decreased sensitivity No specialized equipment Detects multiple Requires specialized pathogens equipment Reduced processing time Expensive startup costs Increased sensitivity

Table 1: Comparison of the four diagnostic methods utilized as part of the Wisconsin DTT 2024 research project.

Overall, the idea of an advanced hybrid system was positively received across stakeholder groups (Figure 3). Armed with this information, certification programs are meeting monthly to discuss how DTT can be integrated into the established hybrid testing model.

FUTURE DTT RESEARCH In fall 2024, WSPCP plans to repeat the DTT survey performed in 2023 with additional testing parameters.

Samples consisting of 400 tubers will be tested for the presence of PVY in 10-tuber composite samples utilizing the diagnostic methods IC-PCR, ELISA leaf testing, visual field inspection,

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and a method focused on extracting pathogen genetic material and confirming with PCR (abbreviated as Extraction-PCR) (Table 1).

executing key components of this project, but also used to increase future sample processing efficiency and capacity.

Traditional and DTT assays each have a unique diagnostic niche. Thus, it is important to understand their strengths and weaknesses as we improve the current hybrid diagnostic model.

Although DTT is not currently accepted as a certification test among U.S. certification agencies, it is an acceptable test for potatoes being shipped to other countries and can be integrated into individual state’s

diagnostic toolboxes.

With continued research efforts, certification program internal validation, growing interest and desire for implementation by seed and commercial growers, as well as increasing acceptance, we will have the ability to release earlier diagnostic results and continue to see the evolution of DTT.

The Extraction-PCR assay was developed by incorporating components of current U.S. DTT diagnostic tools, and technologies successfully utilized by other potatoproducing countries.

It incorporates the removal of four cores from each tuber in a 400-tuber sample followed by disruption of tuber core tissue in 10-tuber composite samples with a motorized homogenizer.

A pathogen’s genetic material (also called DNA/RNA) is then extracted via a specialized automated instrument and identified with a PCR assay designed with primers specific for the detection of a pathogen or pathogens of interest.

As part of the upcoming research project, 25- and 50-tuber composite samples will be created and tested to reduce testing costs. The ExtractionPCR assay is similarly being internally validated within other certification programs due to its increased sensitivity and utility for testing multiple pathogens.

This research opportunity would not be possible without the generous support of our Wisconsin commercial and seed growers. A real-time PCR machine along with a specialized instrument to extract pathogen genetic material from multiple samples simultaneously were generously donated to our program.

These tools will not only be vital for

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Plainfield, WI | 715-335-4900 BC�T November 61

SEED PIECE Trends Among Seed Potato Exporting Countries

United States is the only sustainably growing seed potato exporter among Top 10 Reprinted with permission from East-Fruit.com Visit https://east-fruit.com/en/news

According to EastFruit analysts, international trade in

seed potatoes has been declining over the past five years. The four largest exporting countries, which account for 74% of global exports, have shown negative trends in seed potato exports.

“The global decline in international trade in seed potatoes is due to extremely unfavorable weather conditions in 2022 and 2023 in the main producing countries, which negatively affected production volumes,” notes Andriy Yarmak,

62 BC�T November

economist at the Investment Centre of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.

“Additionally, there has been an intensification of local breeding programs in some countries,”

Yarmak says. “Recently, the factor of deglobalization, or the increase in trade barriers, both tariff and non-tariff, by various countries has further decreased the efficiency of the potato business as a whole.”

Global seed potato sales declined by 42,000 tons, or 2.5% on average per year, from 2019 to 2023. The United Kingdom (UK) led in fastest declining exports percentage, by 6% and 6,000 tons per year. The Netherlands

reduced exports more slowly in relative terms, by 2.7% per year, but the absolute volume of decline was higher, at 24,000 tons annually.

Despite the downward trend in export volumes, the Netherlands continues to hold an incredibly high share of the global seed potato market—more than 51%.

Interestingly, Germany has overtaken the UK in recent years, pushing it down to fourth place in the global ranking. Meanwhile, France remains in second place, holding an impressive 12% share of the global seed potato market.

Among the top 10, Belgium experienced the fastest decline in seed potato exports, dropping to eighth place in the world exporter ranking with an average annual reduction of 13%.

Conversely, Egypt led in increasing seed potato exports, primarily due to a sharp rise in supplies to Russia

in 2023. However, the sustainability of this growth is uncertain as everything related to trading with Russia.

Additionally, the United States has continued increasing its foreign sales of seed potatoes to other countries at an average rate of 9%, or 3,300 tons annually, being the only sustainably growing exporter among the Top 10.

Keep up to date on fruit and vegetable prices in Turkey, Egypt, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Russia, Moldova and other markets by subscribing to EastFruit Premium, https://east-fruit. com/en/horticulture-market/marketreviews/be-in-control-of-the-fruitand-vegetable-market-with-eastfruitpremium/.

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 happiness, gratitude and laughter.

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Potatoes USA News

Influencer Spotlight: Meet Lauren Twigge

Registered dietician tried her hand at potato prep in the Potatoes USA Spud Lab Lauren Twigge is a Dallas-based registered dietitian whose childhood growing up on a farm shaped many of her nutrition perspectives.

Her passion is helping her 63,500 Instagram and TikTok followers “understand food and farming.”

Lauren recently attended Tuber U—a two-day nutrition and culinary immersion event to educate nutrition professionals about the benefits of potatoes. Participants not only learned about how potatoes are grown and that they’re a good

Left: Lauren Twigge, back row, third from left, recently attended Tuber U—a two-day nutrition and culinary immersion event hosted by Potatoes USA to educate nutrition professionals about the benefits of potatoes.

Right: Following the Tuber U event, Lauren shared some fun facts she learned about potatoes with her Instagram followers.

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source of fuel for the body, but they also got to try some hands-on potato prep in the Potatoes USA Spud Lab. Following the event, Lauren shared some fun facts she learned about potatoes with her followers, including:

1. Potatoes are grown from seed potatoes 2. Potatoes are a nutrient powerhouse 3. Potato nutrition isn’t just found in the skin 4. Potatoes are a source of resistant starch

I think we can all agree with Lauren when she said, “Potatoes are affordable, delicious and nutritious!”

Check out Lauren’s Instagram post about the event by visiting https:// www.instagram.com/reel/C9PmRjJp tcC/?igsh=MWNkMXA4bHRkY3BkbA %3D%3D.

U.S. Potato Exports Reach Record Value

Export volume decreases slightly to 3.3 million metric tons during that time U.S. potato export value grew 4.0% to a record $2.3 billion in the 12-month period from July 2023-June 2024.

Export volume decreased slightly (-1.6%) to 3.3 million metric tons (fresh weight equivalent) during that time.

U.S. potato export values increased across all categories—fresh (4.9%), frozen (4.2%), chips (2.7%), dehydrated (2.2%), and seed (19.0%).

For export volumes, fresh (7.5%), dehydrated (0.7%), and seed (12.4%) saw increases, while frozen (-6.1%) and chips (-3.3%) decreased.

volume fell to 1.5 million metric tons.

The top export markets for frozen potatoes were Japan, Mexico and South Korea.

In the period of July 2023-June 2024, Mexico was the United States’ largest export market for the second year in a row, followed by Canada and Japan.

Export value increased for Japan (5.8%) and Mexico (14.4%) but fell for South Korea (-2.9%). Export volume rose for Mexico (3.0%) but declined for Japan (-11.1%) and South Korea (-7.3%).

The value of U.S. frozen potato exports rose to $1.5 billion, while

continued on pg. 66

BC�T November 65

Potatoes USA News. . . continued from pg. 65

DEHYDRATED POTATOES The value of exported dehydrated potatoes rose to $263.1 million and volume increased to 899,032 metric tons. The top destinations for U.S. dehydrated potatoes were Canada, Mexico, and Japan. Both the value (15.0%) and volume (15.5%) of exported dehydrated potatoes rose significantly for Canada.

The value of fresh potato exports rose to $327.9 million, and the volume rose to 611, 461 metric tons.

Mexico, Canada, and Japan were the top export markets for U.S. fresh potatoes, with both value (31.6%) and volume (62.7%) increasing significantly for Mexico. The entire Mexican market opened to U.S. fresh potato exports in May 2022.

Although representing smaller portions of U.S. potato exports, chips increased in value to $225.2 million, and seed increased to $15.4 million.

Chip volume fell to 206,264 metric tons, while seed rose to 32,301 metric tons.

Trade Data Monitor compiles the data from the United States Department of Commerce, Foreign Trade Division, using the Harmonized Coding System, Schedule B. Potatoes USA accepts no liability

for the content of these reports, nor for the consequences of any actions taken based on any information contained herein. Questions on the trade figures, international trade leads, and Potatoes USA international marketing programs should be directed to Media@PotatoesUSA. com.

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OSHA Prepares Agribusiness Inspections Have a plan in place and familiarize yourself with the inspection process and procedures

By Attorney Nicole Stangl, Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets standards and monitors the working environment for employees in most industries, including agriculture.

To regulate and protect agribusiness workers from specific industry hazards, OSHA has implemented requirements for agribusiness employers through agricultural PLAN BETTER BUILD BETTER MAINTAIN BETTER

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specific standards (29 CFR 1928) and general industry standards (29 CFR 1910).

There is a narrow small farm exemption from enforcement of all rules, regulations, standards and orders under federal OSHA parameters that some agribusinesses may fall into.

Have an OSHA Preparedness Plan OSHA can conduct both scheduled and unannounced visits. As a best practice, your agribusiness should have a plan in place for when OSHA shows up. Understanding what to expect and knowing what your rights are during these visits can help you stay prepared and maintain a safe workplace.

To start, the plan should designate: Above: Understanding what to expect and knowing what your rights are during OSHA visits can help you stay prepared and maintain a safe workplace.

1. A contact person who will accompany the OSHA inspector throughout the inspection.

2. A space to take the inspector upon arrival. It is best to have an enclosed space near where the inspector will first arrive (i.e., the main office), and it is best if this space does not have any windows.

3. A plan to address the inspection process.

“While refusing the inspection and requiring OSHA to get a warrant may provide the agribusiness with more time before the inspection occurs, it is not a suggested practice.”

– Attorney Nicole Stangl, Ruder Ware, L.L.S.C.

OSHA does not have the right to enter or inspect unless they have consent or a warrant. An agribusiness has the discretion to either 1) consent to the inspection, or 2) refuse to consent and require a warrant.

While refusing the inspection and requiring OSHA to get a warrant may provide the agribusiness with more time before the inspection occurs, it is not a suggested practice.

The warrant removes all negotiating power over the scope of the inspection and breaks down any goodwill you might have with the Inspector. It is usually best to consent to the inspection.

THE INSPECTION PROCESS The Opening Conference During the opening conference, OSHA will share why they are there: 1) random inspection, 2) accident follow-up, or 3) complaint response.

At this conference, you can negotiate the scope of the inspection. OSHA inspections may focus on places employees are working as well as the conditions they are working in, which may include structures, machines, apparatuses, devices, equipment, etc.

While the conference is happening, the company should use the time to correct any obvious hazards.

The Walkaround Once the scope of the inspection has been identified, it is important to take the inspector on a direct route continued on pg. 70

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Eagle River, WI 715-628-2198 BC�T November 69

OSHA Prepares Agribusiness Inspections . . . continued from pg. 69

to the designated location without any extraneous stops. When possible, it is helpful to have pre-planned routes to various areas of your agribusiness.

Anything the inspector sees in plain sight is fair game for them to take note of and potentially cite you for.

If possible, you should also clear out the negotiated inspection site to eliminate unnecessary bodies and activity. The less chaos in an area, the better.

The inspector can and will take photos. You should take identical photos and take notes. OSHA is collecting evidence to support a potential citation, so if you collect corresponding evidence, you will Right: As a best practice, your agribusiness should have a plan in place for when OSHA arrives.

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be in a better situation to respond.

One of the most important things to do, if possible, is to abate (fix) the hazards an inspector points out while they are there. Abatement is not an admission and is not viewed negatively by OSHA. OSHA’s goal is compliance. If you abate the hazard and show you are trying to be compliant, it might prevent you from getting a citation related to that hazard, or at the very least, it will be noted on any issued citation.

Finally, the inspector can interview both employees and managers. The interviews may or may not happen on the same day as the site inspection.

If the inspector interviews a member of management, you have the right to have a company representative in the interview because the manager’s statements can bind the company.

Representation During the Inspection Employers and employees have the right to have a representative present during an OSHA site inspection. This “walkaround rule” is not new. However, this year the U.S. Department of Labor issued a new rule expanding this right for employees.

Under the new rule, a third-party representative is anyone who is reasonably necessary based on their “relevant knowledge, skills, or experience with hazards or conditions in the workplace or similar workplaces, or language or communication skills.”

prepared in case you would have an inspection.

What Happens After They Leave?

After the inspection is complete, OSHA may issue citations. There are four types of citations, each carrying a maximum penalty.

If a citation is received, you have 15 working days to contest the citation,

pay the fine, and/or you can have an informal conference with the regional director to discuss the citation.

Contact your OSHA attorney to determine if you fit within the small farm exemption, to help set up an OSHA preparedness plan, and to help navigate any OSHA citations you might receive.

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In practicality, this allows employees to bring non-employee third-party representatives into the workplace to accompany the OSHA inspection.

We recommend you talk to your OSHA attorney to discuss the limitations that exist related to the third-party representative and be

F O C U S E D O N AG . F O C U S E D O N YO U. BC�T November 71

NPC News

Support the Potato LEAF Auction

Proceeds go to leadership development within the U.S. potato industry The Potato Leadership, Education, and Advancement Foundation (Potato LEAF) is hosting live and silent auctions during Potato Expo 2025. The 2024 auction raised over $100,000 to support its leadership development efforts to benefit the U.S. potato industry.

Potato LEAF is seeking auction items for both auctions, such as goods, services, or experiences valued at $50 or greater. Donations are also being sought, such as products, equipment, sporting event packages, unique experiences, vacation experiences, etc.

Select items will be part of the live auction held during the Potato Expo 2025 Kick-off Reception on Thursday, January 9, in the Expo Hall, beginning at 5 p.m.

Potato LEAF is also hosting a silent auction, beginning on December 7, 2024, and closing at the conclusion of Potato Expo at 5 p.m. CST on January 10.

You can view current items and find additional information on the auction portal. If you are interested in donating an item, it can be uploaded through the portal, https://us.givergy. com/PotatoLeaf2025/?controller=h

ome, or you can provide info@pleaf. org with the following information: • T itle (limited to 45 characters) •D escription •D onor name (limited to 45 characters) • F air market value •2 -3 photos Please submit auction items by Dec. 6, 2024.

Boost Your Potato Business: Exhibit at Potato Expo 2025 Get ready to supercharge your potato business at Potato Expo 2025!

With over 160 exhibitors already signed up, this year’s trade show will be packed with cutting-edge products and services designed to help you boost efficiency and streamline your operations.

Here’s what you can expect: 🔧 Explore game-changing products 🚜 Boost efficiency, maximize output 🔍 Discover what’s next 🔗 Connect with top suppliers Don’t miss the opportunity

to uncover new products and services that can take your potato business to the next level. Early bird rates are available through November 1, so act now and save!

Visit https://www. nationalpotato council.org/potato-expo/exhibit/.

WPIB Focus

Wisconsin Potato Assessment Collections: Two-Year Comparison

Month

Jul-23

Aug-23

Sep-23

CWT

1,313,762.07

1,528,723.01

977,118.59

3,819,603.67

Assessment

$105,353.00

$122,297.83

$78,169.48

$305,820.31

Month

Jul-24

Aug-24

Sep-24

CWT

2,082,664.08

1,837,453.47

642,921.10

4,563,038.65

Assessment

$167,100.87

$146,986.28

$51,433.66

$365,520.81

72 BC�T November

Oct-23

Oct-24

Nov-23

Nov-24

Dec-23

Dec-24

Jan-24

Jan-25

Feb-24

Feb-25

Mar-24

Mar-25

Apr-24

Apr-25

May-24

May-25

Jun-24

Jun-25

Year-to-Date

Year-to-Date

POTATO EXPO JANUARY 9-10, 2025

FLOCK TO FLORIDA

The Potato Expo is where growers, suppliers, and industry experts come together to share ideas, learn, and grow. Join us for your chance to reconnect, collaborate, and drive the industry forward.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

Registration now open at Potato-Expo.com

ORLANDO, WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT

New Products AI Inspection System Profits Potato Processors

Smart Vision Works SiftAI® Smart Table improves contaminant detection and product grading Food processors know that foreign objects and inaccurate grading are cutting into profits. To fix this, they have tried X-ray detection, metal detection, vision inspection systems, and large teams of human inspectors, yet success has been limited.

Beta customers report higher produce profit, fewer missed contaminants, and dramatically lower labor costs.

The system includes cameras, AI software, a conveyor, and automatic ejection mechanisms with dual drops (one for foreign material, one for culls) to ensure only ideal potatoes reach later process stages. Watch a video to see the system in action by visiting https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=57KLoNiWqxo.

A new AI (artificial intelligence)-based vision inspection system from Smart Vision Works, a KPM Analytics brand, is designed to solve these longstanding problems.

The SiftAI® Smart Table is trained via AI to automatically detect and remove foreign objects and sort products in a single pass. Unlike competing vision inspection systems, the new system uses advanced

AI that is more accurate, allowing companies to inspect products and remove foreign materials at higher throughputs than ever before.

Here for

IMPROVE PROFITABILITY The SiftAI Smart Table vision inspection system is competitively priced. Company managers can justify the investment by reallocating

HERE FOR YOU WITH FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS & EXPERTISE >> Ag Loans & Leases | Crop & Livestock Insurance Ag Business Services | Appraisal Services Patronage Program | Local Service | And More Cathy Schommer, VP Food & Agribusiness (608) 370-6792 | Cathy.Schommer@compeer.com

Growing Your Farm or Agribusiness

Dan Kendall, Insurance Officer (608) 370-6825 | Dan.Kendall@compeer.com compeer.com/HereForYou | (844) 426-6733

Ag & Rural Community Financing & Support Patronage remains at the discretion of the Board of Directors based on a combination of factors. No guaranty of annual allocations. Compeer Financial does not provide legal advice or certified financial planning. Equal Credit Opportunity Lender. Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. NMLS #619731. © 2024 All rights reserved.

74 BC�T November

inspection workers to higher skill areas. Wages have risen sharply in recent years, so company managers will value the opportunity to shift workers away from low-skill activities.

In addition, the system helps processors avoid customer fines for contaminants. For some processors, these fines may cost $50,000 per incident and total hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.

Because of the speed of the advanced AI technology, conveyor speeds can also be increased, giving operators more throughput per shift.

Best of all, the system precisely grades produce using sophisticated evaluation of bruises, rot, and green.

According to Christopher Bryant, president of the Smart Vision Works AI Division within KPM Analytics, “We estimate that up to 20% of potatoes are typically diverted to the wrong

value stream, reducing profitability and causing customer satisfaction issues.”

A more accurate sorting system diverts less produce to less profitable uses, and higher quality produce can command a higher price.

PROCESSORS BENEFIT The AI-driven system addresses specific business and operational challenges potato processors face each day.

• Chip potatoes: Avoid penalties (charge backs) by immediately eliminating foreign materials from the process stream.

• Process potatoes: Also eliminate foreign materials while reliably sorting potatoes based on size, presence of defects, and more.

• Fresh pack potatoes: Pre-sort to reduce potato volume through the facility, minimize foreign material

risk, and deliver only the best potatoes to customers.

The improvements are possible because the system’s technology is not like the basic AI commonly used by other vision inspection systems.

Instead, the system uses AI built on 12 years of development by scientists and a decade of experience in food sorting applications.

Unlike competitors that use optical scanners, the system takes a full digital image and runs it through a neural network. Users receive detailed data for analysis.

The SIftAI Smart Table system is available for order now with a 14-16-week lead time. Contact the factory for lead times on custom configurations having more tilt trays or other features.

Visit www.kpmanalytics.com to learn more. continued on pg. 76

BC�T November 75

New Products . . . continued from pg. 75

Rock River Laboratory Partners with Greenfield Robotics Directing crop nutrition in the field just got easier with sensor technology and farming robots Greenfield Robotics, a leader in farming robotics innovation, is excited to announce a new development partnership with Rock River Laboratory, a cutting-edge, international agricultural laboratory network based in Wisconsin.

This collaboration seeks to transform how farmers direct crop nutrition in the field by combining Rock River Laboratory’s advanced sensor technology with Greenfield Robotics farming robots.

Rock River Laboratory has developed a state-of-the-art light sensor with technological support from Si-Ware.

Greenfield Robotics and Rock River Laboratory are working together to attach and power the sensors with the robots.

The intent of the sensor integration with the robots is to enable realtime plant tissue analysis in the field.

The aim of this collaboration is to identify any nutrient deficiencies in crops and provide actionable data for optimizing crop health and yield.

ROBOTS WITH SENSORS The sensors have been functioning on commercial crops, and they are currently being trained on broad acre crops such as soybeans with plans to expand to other broad acre crops in 2025. Field trials of the robots equipped with sensors begin in the summer of 2025.

The purpose of the project is not only to reduce the need for blanket fertilization and chemicals, but also minimize waste and help farmers grow healthier crops with fewer inputs, resulting in more resilient crops and profitable farming practices.

“This partnership marks an important milestone in contemporary farming,” says Clint Brauer, founder of

BINFRONT BARRIERS …a better barrier

WHEN THERE’S A NEED FOR SEPARATION.

IDEAL FOR

Barrier system walls off potatoes in bulk storage.

BinFronts can be placed in tight circumferences for corners or circles, eliminating the burden of ordering corner pieces.

• Interlocking Design for Stacking • Angled Barrier Ends Allow for 90-Degree Turns Using Three Barriers

BULK STORAGE

Contact Pete Schroeder • 715-623-2689 Email: farm@sbfi.biz • Web: https://binfront.biz/ 76 BC�T November

Greenfield Robotics. “By combining Rock River Laboratory’s expertise in plant tissue analysis with our robotics technology, we are working toward providing farmers with a powerful tool to take proactive control of their crops’ nutrient health.”

“Rock River Laboratory is always looking for opportunities to create and enhance innovative solutions to improve agriculture at all levels,” adds Zachery Meyer, chief executive officer of Rock River Laboratory.

“This collaboration with Greenfield Robotics allows us to exponentially share these crop nutrient management improvements and further the goal of sustainable practices that can be realistically employed on-farm,” Meyer adds.

This partnership underscores Greenfield Robotics’ commitment to reducing reliance on chemical herbicides and fertilizers while enhancing the overall efficiency of farming. As the agriculture industry continues to embrace precision technology, Greenfield Robotics and Rock River Laboratory are shaping the future of sustainable farming.

For more information, contact Rock River Laboratory, Inc., 710 Commerce Dr., Watertown, WI 53094, dustin_ sawyer@rockriverlab.com, www. rockriverlab.com. Or contact Mark Levine, Greenfield Robotics, mark. levine@greenfieldrobotics.com, 310-699-4976.

DISHING IT UP WITH DANA

Game Day Kicks Off with Cheesy Potato Skins Pecan Toffee Bars are the perfect sweet treat to bring home a Green Bay Packers victory Column and photos by Dana Rady, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association Football is a big deal in our house. I’m sure that’s the case for a lot of you, especially if you reside in the state that bleeds green and gold.

By the way, I send my deepest sympathies to those of you who feel the need to wear purple and gold, blue and orange, or even blue and silver. It’s a bit unfortunate that such colors even exist in the NFL. More often than not, if the Packers are scheduled to play at noon on a

Sunday, my family records the game and watches it later at night after we’ve had the chance to get some work done. Thank goodness for digital video recorders, right?

While that provides more flexibility, it can also be a problem.

My husband, Eric, truly detests hearing about any aspect of the game before watching it. He becomes a hot mess if he gets a call or text from family or friends about a certain

play or score if he hasn’t already seen it himself. It’s like the world is coming to an end. It is a bit dramatic, and so I insert my eyeroll here.

While not hearing about the game before we watch it isn’t always a guarantee, one aspect that’s guaranteed is game day food.

And I’m pleased to say that our game day menu isn’t complete without something that involves Wisconsin potatoes.

continued on pg. 78

Dagen Heritage Farms EST. 1882

SEED POTATOES

VIGOR

MINNESOTA SEED

POTATOES

VARIETIES

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Karlstad, MN • (218) 686-1734 • jdagen@wiktel.com

INGREDIENTS:

Cheesy Potato Skins with Sun-Dried Tomatoes • 4 medium russet potatoes, about 1.5 lbs.

• 1/4 cup fat-free sour cream • 2 oz. shredded Parmesan cheese • 2 oz. shredded mozzarella cheese • 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped • 1/4 cup sliced green onion tops • 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley • Pepper to taste BC�T November 77

Advertisers Index

Dishing It Up with Dana… continued from pg. 77

The two recipes herein are each super easy to make. So, if you don’t like to spend a lot of time in the kitchen, these are for you. One is savory and the other sweet. Both use Wisconsin potatoes, but one may have you raising your eyebrows. I promise, though, that making it will be well worth your time.

Whether you’re watching the next game with friends or just your immediate family (and regardless of which team you are cheering for), each recipe is sure to win over any guest. In fact, they both easily have the potential to distract your guests from the game. So, make sure no one misses the replays!

DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and bake potatoes for 50 minutes or until tender. Let cool.

Cut each potato in half lengthwise, and with a spoon, scoop out the pulp, leaving 1/4-inch of potato in each half.

Cut each half in half lengthwise again to form quarters. Season with salt and pepper and bake potato quarters for 15 minutes. This will crisp them up so that they can be picked up easily.

Mash 1 cup of potato pulp with a potato masher (save remaining pulp for later use). Stir in sour cream, cheeses, tomatoes, green onions and parsley. Mixture should be sticky and hold together.

With your hands, divide the mixture evenly between the potato skins, pressing the mixture into the skins.

Sprinkle with fresh ground black

78 BC�T November

pepper and bake for 15 minutes.

Serve warm.

INGREDIENTS: Pecan Toffee Bars • 1 cup mashed Wisconsin russet potatoes (nothing added) • 1/2 cup butter • 1 cup brown sugar • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour • 1/4 tsp. baking soda • 1/4 tsp. salt • 1/2 cup chopped toasted pecans • 3/4 cup milk chocolate or semisweet chocolate chips DIRECTIONS Combine potatoes, butter, and brown sugar in a heavy medium saucepan.

Place over medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Continue to cook and stir for 5 minutes.

Remove 2/3 cup of mixture and place in a small bowl. Cool slightly.

While cooling, preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Stir together flour, soda, and salt, and add to the mixture in the bowl.

Mix well.

Pat the mixture into the bottom of an 8- or 9-inch square baking pan. Bake for about 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.

Add toasted pecans to the remaining potato mixture. Spoon over crust and spread evenly.

Bake 10 minutes longer or until mixture begins to bubble. Remove from oven.

Sprinkle with chocolate chips, and when melted, spread to cover.

Cool, and then cut into bars.

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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 win • 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

one grade, one standard–certification th

oneone grade, oneone standard–certification grade, standard–certificationthat thatcounts. counts.

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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For a directory of Wisconsin Certified Seed Potato Growers, scan Certified Seedwith Potato scan this code yourGrowers, smartphone. this code with your smartphone.

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