Practical advice from across potato sector

Potato growers, agronomists and members of the trade will gather at Perth Racecourse later this month for the annual conference of the SAC Association of Potato Producers.

Back to the Future for Potatoes takes place on Wednesday January 31 from 9.30am to 4pm.

A range of expert speakers will give practical advice on topics including pesticide use, the challenges posed by Brexit, and plant health.

SAC Consulting’s senior potato consultant Innes Jessiman will open the event by looking back at the 2017 season and ahead to this year’s crop.

Other speakers include the chief executive of peeled potato and chip supplier Fylde Fresh & Fabulous, Simon Lever, who will talk about the importance of getting to know customers, and Syngenta UK’S head of technical, David King.

NFU Scotland vice-president and Aberfeldy farmer Martin Kennedy will share his views on adapting to change in light of Brexit, and workshops will look at ways to tackle potato cyst nematodes and how opportunities for seed and ware export of potatoes can be improved.

Conference organiser Dr Stuart Wale, from SRUC, said: “Back to the Future for Potatoes is the perfect opportunity for members of the industry to gather and hear specialist advice from across the sector.

“Not only will they hear about the challenges facing potato producers, they will also learn about the array of opportunities and help available.

“We have an outstanding lineup of speakers and we’re looking forward to another successful event in Perth.”

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We have an outstanding line-up of speakers. DR STUART WALE