The potato industry in Maine is experiencing a shift, driven by consumers’ growing interest in potatoes with distinctive sizes, shapes, colors, and flavors. To address this trend, the University of Maine Cooperative Extension is organizing a virtual webinar titled “Growing & Marketing Specialty Potato Varieties.” Scheduled for Thursday, March 27, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, the session is designed to provide valuable insights into the cultivation and commercialization of these specialty crops.
Webinar Focus and Presenter
Brett Johnson, a Sustainable Agriculture Educator with the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, will lead the webinar. His presentation will cover effective growing and marketing practices tailored to Maine’s unique climate and soil conditions. The discussion will also highlight the outcomes of the 2024 Organic Specialty Potato Variety Trial conducted at the Rogers Farm Forage and Crop Research Facility in Old Town, Maine. This trial evaluated 15 different potato varieties, providing insights into their performance under organic farming practices.
Who Should Attend
The webinar is particularly beneficial for commercial farmers interested in or currently producing specialty potato varieties, as well as new and beginning farmers exploring market opportunities. Participants will gain knowledge on consumer trends, agronomic practices, and marketing strategies essential for success in this niche market.
Registration Details
The event is free, but registration is required. Interested individuals can register through the University of Maine Cooperative Extension’s website or by contacting their local extension office. A Zoom link will be provided to registrants the day before the event.
As consumer preferences evolve, Maine’s farmers have the opportunity to diversify their offerings by incorporating specialty potato varieties. This webinar serves as a timely resource, equipping producers with the knowledge and tools needed to capitalize on emerging market trends and enhance their profitability.
