The Idaho Potato Conference, now in its 57th year, is set to return to Pocatello, Idaho, from January 22–23, 2025. Organized by the University of Idaho, this event draws attention from across the potato industry, bringing together growers, researchers, consultants, and agricultural professionals.
The conference will feature:
- 70+ Booths and Exhibits showcasing agricultural products and services.
- Specialized Seminars offering Certified Crop Adviser credits and pesticide recertification.
- Four Themed Tracks, including Potatoes 101, advanced farming techniques, research updates, and Spanish-language sessions.
Key Sessions and Research Highlights
- Disease Management
- Verticillium Wilt: This pervasive disease, causing early die in potatoes, will be addressed in sessions led by Jeff Miller and Phillip Wharton. Research includes alternative fumigation methods and biological control options.
- Potato Mop-Top Virus (PMTV): With rising PMTV cases, experts such as Jonathan Whitworth and James Woodhall will discuss detection methods and strategies to keep the virus out of potato fields.
- Sustainable Farming Innovations
- Biopesticides: Kasia Duellman will present on integrating biopesticides into disease management programs, a topic of growing interest for organic and conventional farmers alike.
- Economic Impacts of Pests: Patrick Hatzenbuehler will discuss the financial implications of vole damage to Idaho’s potato crops, with a survey spearheaded by Jason Thomas to map the extent of the issue.
- Industry Updates and Networking
Representatives from Potatoes USA, the National Potato Council, and the Idaho Potato Commission will provide updates on industry trends and policies. Guest talks by Washington State University researchers Tim Waters and Jacob Blauer will focus on insect management and potato agronomy.
Additional Events
The conference coincides with the Eastern Idaho Ag Expo, held from January 21–23 at ISU’s Holt Arena. Attendees can also participate in the Idaho Crop Improvement Association Seed Potato Growers’ Seminar on January 21, offering further networking and learning opportunities.
Why Attend?
“This is a unique chance to connect with industry leaders, learn the latest research, and gain practical insights for your farming operations,” says Kasia Duellman, a seed potato specialist at U of I. With affordable registration fees—$40 before January 15 and $50 thereafter—the conference offers tremendous value for attendees.
The Idaho Potato Conference remains a cornerstone event for advancing potato production and industry collaboration. By addressing critical issues like disease management, sustainable practices, and pest control, the conference empowers stakeholders to meet challenges and seize opportunities in a changing agricultural landscape.
Whether you’re a farmer, researcher, or industry expert, this event offers a wealth of knowledge, networking, and tools to optimize potato farming in 2025 and beyond.
