Research And Advances Front And Center During Potato Field Day

It’s that time of year again, for The Washington State University Potato Field Day outside of Othello.  This year’s event ticks off 8:30 a.m. Thursday morning at WSU’s Othello Research Unit on West Cox Road.  WSU’s Mark Pavek said this year field day will be unlike any before, including a Potato Virus Y demonstration.

"And we have 20 varieties inoculated with three strains of PVY, compared to a control and it allows growers to see side by side, what some of these local varieties that we use look like when they are infected with this disease.”

Experts will be on hand to help growers determine the best way to clean up their fields, and answer any specific questions you may have.  Pavek said PVY is a devastating virus that can cause total crop losses.

The free event runs from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Following the tour, discussions and lunch will be provided.  WSU hosts the Potato Field Day every year in partnership with the Washington State potato Commission and Washington State Potato Foundation.  Washington grows more potatoes per acre than any other state, and is a $4.6 billion industry.

To learn more about the Field Day, visit WSU's Website.

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