Nueva Zelanda: research praised at potato conference

Professor Secor, of the Plant Pathology Department at North Dakota State University, will be a keynote speaker at the two day event, which begins in Ashburton tomorrow.“New Zealand has world recognised research, including on powdery scab and psyllids and zebra chip, and a good potato breeding programme that serves the industry well,” said Professor Secor. “I have read several research publications that have established New Zealand as a leader in potato research.”Dr Secor’s presentation to the conference will include an ‘all of industry’ session on disease management and a workshop with seed growers on seed development and handling. Then he’s looking forward to meeting New Zealand scientists and growers.Professor Secor said he is also keen to know more about the farming practices that New Zealand growers use to manage crop diseases.Champak Mehta, Chief Executive of Potatoes NZ Inc, said the organisation was delighted to welcome Professor Secor to the conference.For more details about the conference see potatoesnz.co.nz.