Michigan Potato Industry Commission Announces Detailed Agenda for Upcoming Tour

The Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) is set to host its highly anticipated Box Bin Tour on Thursday, August 22, 2024, from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The event will offer a thorough examination of the latest advancements in potato variety and storage practices, providing key insights for stakeholders across the industry.

Tour Details and Agenda

The tour will commence at the Montcalm Research Center, located at 4629 W McBride Road, Lakeview, MI 48850. Participants will then proceed to various other locations as outlined in the agenda:

  • 9:30-9:50 a.m.: Introduction of the new committee structure and co-chairs. This segment will provide an overview of the organizational changes and introduce key figures leading the advancements in the sector.
  • 9:50-11 a.m.: A review of the 2024 MRC box bin variety entries will take place, including an in-depth discussion on the bulk storage plan for 2024-2025. This session will also cover the 2023-2024 Bliss (NY163) variety and provide an update on storage pathology, focusing on innovations and challenges.
  • 11-11:15 a.m.: The session will include a discussion on the direction and plan for 1,4GROUP Storage Trials, which are essential for understanding and improving storage practices.
  • 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.: Attendees will enjoy lunch at McKenna’s Village Restaurant in Lakeview, offering an opportunity for informal networking and discussion.
  • 1-2:30 p.m.: The afternoon will feature visits to Bliss (NY163) plantings at Sandyland Farms and an exploration of the 2024 SNAC Trial plantings. These visits will provide practical insights into the latest field trials and variety developments.

The Box Bin Tour is an important event for professionals in the potato industry, offering valuable opportunities to engage with the latest research, network with peers, and gain practical insights into emerging trends and technologies.

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Viktor Kovalev CEO
POTATOES NEWS Viktor Kovalev is the founder of Potatoes.News and the creator of the International Potato Tour (IPT) — a global multimedia project that connects potato farmers, processors, researchers, and agribusiness companies across more than 20 countries. Viktor writes about potato production, processing technologies, storage, seed breeding, export markets, innovations, and sustainable agriculture. His work combines journalism, field research, and video storytelling, giving readers and viewers a unique perspective on the global potato industry. Areas of expertise: Global potato market trends Seed potato production and certification Potato processing (chips, flakes, fries, starch) Smart farming and agri-technologies Storage, logistics, and export Interviews and field reports from leading producers