1706-Badger Common'Tater by bctater

Badger Commonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Tater

June 2017

THE VOICE OF WISCONSIN'S POTATO & VEGETABLE INDUSTRY

HARVEST & SPECIALTY VEHICLES/TR ACTORS ISSUE

Volume 69 Number 6 $18.00/year $1.50/copy

MICROBIAL LIFEFORMS Workforce of the Soil BOX STORING SPUDS? Thinking Inside the Box TEST TUBE TO PLATE Clean Seed Potatoes WISCONSIN ENJOYS Healthy Lake Levels

INTERVIEW: WSPIA President

Bill Guenthner Guenthner Farms Inc.

A cultimulcher is hooked to a Massey Ferguson 7490 tractor for seeding oats at Guenthner Farms Inc. in Antigo, WI.

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On the Cover: One can only see the arm, at the bottom-left of the front cover, that pulls the seeder behind the cultimulcher attached to a Massey Ferguson 7490. The setup was used to seed oats on Guenthner Farms Inc. on May 8. Driving the tractor, but not in the image, was Tom Schmidt, who’s been employed by the farm since 1974.

8 Badger cOMMON’TATER

INTERVIEW: Bill Guenthner Bill Guenthner (left) says his father, Dwayne (right), grew the first crop of seed potatoes on what is now Guenthner Farms Inc. in 1960. It continues to be a certified seed potato farm, specializing in Red La Soda, Goldrush, Langlade and Teton Russet varieties for a total of 140 acres. The three-year crop rotation includes potatoes, oats and winter wheat.

Departments: ALI’S KITCHEN................... 61 AUXILIARY NEWS.............. 53 BADGER BEAT................... 36

SEED PIECE

MARKETPLACE

Seed Potato Certification Program supplies growers with disease-free tubers

Spudmobile visits Food for America event hosted by Rosholt FFA chapter

48 IS BOX STORAGE FOR POTATOES PRACTICAL? Author says it saves storage space with less bruising

EYES ON ASSOCIATES....... 55 MARK YOUR CALENDAR..... 6 NEW PRODUCTS............... 42 NOW NEWS...................... 20 NPC NEWS........................ 59

Feature Articles:

PEOPLE ............................ 40

14 HEALTHY LAKE LEVELS: Wisconsin’s flow-through lakes rise and fall cyclically 32 SOIL MICROBES digest plant debris, chemical residues, fertilizer salts and more 56 IDENTITY THEFT: Be extremely cautious with your personal information

PLANTING IDEAS................ 6

BC�T June

POTATOES USA NEWS...... 52 WPIB FOCUS..................... 54

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WPVGA Board of Directors: President: Eric Schroeder Vice President: Josh Mattek Secretary: Gary Wysocki Treasurer: Wes Meddaugh Directors: Steve Diercks, Mark Finnessy, Rod Gumz, Ron Krueger & Andy Wallendal Wisconsin Potato Industry Board: President: Heidi Alsum-Randall Vice President: Richard Okray Secretary: Bill Wysocki Treasurer: Keith Wolter Directors: John Bobek, Andy Diercks, Cliff Gagas, John T. Schroeder & Tom Wild WPVGA Associate Division Board of Directors: President: Sally Suprise Vice President: Casey Kedrowski Secretary: Cathy Schommer

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Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association Board of Directors: President: Bill Guenthner Vice President: Charlie Mattek Secretary/Treasurer: J.D. Schroeder Directors: Jeff Fassbender, Dan Kakes

WPVGA Staff Executive Director: Tamas Houlihan Managing Editor: Joe Kertzman Director of Promotions & Consumer Education: Dana Rady Financial Officer: Karen Rasmussen Executive Assistant: Julie Braun Program Assistant: Danielle Sorano Coordinator of Community Relations: Jim Zdroik Spudmobile Assistant: Doug Foemmel

Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary Board of Directors: President: Paula Houlihan Vice President: Ali Carter Secretary/Treasurer: Deniell Bula Directors: Jody Baginski, Kathy Bartsch, Alicia Pavelski & Marie Reid

WPVGA Office (715) 623-7683 • FAX: (715) 623-3176 E-mail: wpvga@wisconsinpotatoes.com Website: www.wisconsinpotatoes.com Like Us On Facebook: www.facebook.com/WPVGA

Mission Statement of the WPVGA: “To assist WPVGA members to be successful through education, information, environmentally sound research, promotion, governmental action, and involvement.” Mission Statement of the WPVGA Associate Division: “Our mission is to work in partnership with the WPVGA as product and service providers to promote mutual industry viability by integrating technology and information resources.” Badger Common’Tater is published monthly at 700 Fifth Avenue, Antigo, Wisconsin 54409

Subscription rates: $1.50/copy, $18.00/year; $30/2 years. Foreign subscription rates: $30/year; $50/2 years. Telephone: (715) 623-7683 Mailing address: P.O. Box 327, Antigo, Wisconsin 54409 Or, subscribe free online: http://wisconsinpotatoes.com/blog-news/subscribe/ ADVERTISING: To advertise your service or product in this magazine, call (715) 630-6213, or email: Joe Kertzman: jkertzman@wisconsinpotatoes.com. The editor welcomes manuscripts and pictures but accepts no responsibility for such material while in our hands. BC�T June

Mark Your

Calendar

june

13-15 UNITED FRESH 2017 CONFERENCE & EXPO West Hall, McCormick Place Chicago, IL 14 WISCONSIN GROCERS ASSOCIATION (WGA) GOLF OUTING Evergreen Golf Club Elkhorn, WI 17 FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN MOBILEPACK EVENT Noel Hangar Stevens Point, WI 20-21 UNITED POTATO GROWERS OF AMERICA CROP TRANSITION CONFERENCE Bloomington, MN 23 SPUD SEED CLASSIC WSPIA GOLF OUTING Bass Lake Golf Course Deerbrook, WI 24 WISCONSIN TRITERIUM TRIATHLON Fireman’s Park, 7 a.m. Verona, WI

july 8 PARDEEVILLE TRIATHLON Chandler Park, 8 a.m. Pardeeville, WI 12 ASSOCIATE DIV. PUTT-TATO OPEN GOLF OUTING Lake Arrowhead Golf Course Nekoosa, WI 16-18 PMANA (POTATO MARKETING ASSOC. OF NORTH AMERICA) MEETING Wisconsin Dells 20 HARS FIELD DAY Hancock, WI 27 ANTIGO FIELD DAY Langlade County Airport Antigo, WI

august 3-13 WISCONSIN STATE FAIR Milwaukee, WI 19 WAUPACA AREA TRIATHLON South Park, 7 a.m. Waupaca, WI

september 17 DEVIL’S CHALLENGE TRIATHLON North Shore of Devil’s Lake Baraboo, WI

October 17 WGA INNOVATION EXPO Hyatt Regency & KI Center Green Bay, WI 20-21 PMA (PRODUCE MARKETING ASSOCIATION) FRESH SUMMIT New Orleans, LA 30-31 RESEARCH MEETING West Madison Ag Research Station Madison, WI

Planting Ideas I feel more a part of my community than I ever have. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve always felt part of the community in and around the village of Rosholt, Wisconsin, where I live with my wife, Tricia, and our kids, Danny and Cora. We have made many close friends since moving to Rosholt in the summer of 1997. And I was raised in some pretty nice towns, spending half my growing up years in Winona, Minnesota, and the other half in Greendale, Wisconsin, a cute, quaint little suburb of Milwaukee. Yet, since taking the job as managing editor of the Badger Common’Tater and working for the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association a year ago, I’ve had the opportunity to meet more of my neighbors, visiting their farms, homesteads, barns and land, than ever before. It’s been an amazing and enlightening experience. (That’s me [left] with this issue’s interviewee, Bill Guenthner of Guenthner Farms Inc. [right], in the picture.) I have been to Ag Days, open houses, harvest parties, the WPS Farm Show, the Grower Education Conference & Industry Show, to State Fair, two Green Bay Packers games, golf outings, fertilizer plant open houses, town hall meetings, the Capitol building in Madison, and to field days at the Hancock, Langlade County and Rhinelander Agricultural Research Stations. Just attending those events, however, isn’t what makes me feel as though I’m more a part of the community. It’s the people, learning about their daily operations, livelihood, how many generations have lived on the land they call home and what their values and beliefs are that have enriched my life this past year. I’ve met and visited with neighbors I had crossed paths with, but never gotten to know. I’ve learned as much as someone can about agriculture and farming, and particularly potato and vegetable growing, in a year’s time. I have so much more to learn, and will never learn it all unless I start a new career as a potato and vegetable grower. It’s unlikely that will happen, but in the meantime, I plan to enjoy the time I have interviewing, asking questions of, photographing and forming friendships with the neighbors I never knew. Please email me with your thoughts and questions. If you wish to be notified when our free online magazine is available monthly, here is the subscriber link: http://wisconsinpotatoes.com/blog-news/subscribe.

Joe Kertzman Managing Editor jkertzman@wisconsinpotatoes.com

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Interview

Bill Guenthner, WSPIA President Guenthner Farms Inc. By Joe Kertzman, Managing Editor, Badger Common’Tater

NAME: William Guenthner (Bill) TITLE: Owner/secretary/treasurer COMPANY: Guenthner Farms Inc. LOCATION: Antigo, WI HOMETOWN: Antigo, WI YEARS IN PRESENT POSITION: 24 years, growing potatoes over 30 years PREVIOUS EMPLOYMENT: Langlade County Sheriff’s Department SCHOOLING: Antigo High School and North Central Technical College with an associate degree in criminal justice ACTIVITIES/ORGANIZATIONS: Bryant Ridge Runners Snowmobile Club secretary, president of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association (WSPIA), First Baptist Church, Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) and Farm Bureau FAMILY: Wife, Jolene, and son, Riley HOBBIES: Snowmobiling, watching Wisconsin sports, including Badgers, Packers and Brewers, watching his son play baseball and enjoying time at his family lake cottage

BC�T June

“The property that I currently own was purchased by my

father, Dwayne, in March of 1959 from Felix Zeloski [a Hall of Fame seed potato grower],” relates Bill Guenthner of Guenthner Farms Inc. “The first year my father farmed with his father, George Guenthner, and brother, Jerry.” In 1960, the first crop of seed potatoes was grown, and Guenthner Farms has continued to be a certified seed farm ever since. Prior to 1987, Bill worked part time on the farm, but began full-time employment that year.

“In 1994, Guenthner Farms incorporated, consisting of myself, my father and longtime employee, Tom Schmidt,” he explains. “In 2002, I purchased the land and existing buildings from my father and moved back to the house that I grew up in.” The original farmhouse has been remodeled several times, and it is believed to have been built in the 1890’s, once housing migrant workers. What varieties of seed potatoes do you grow and how many acres? We currently grow Red La Soda, Goldrush, Langlade and Teton Russet varieties for a total of 140 acres. We use a three-year crop rotation of potatoes followed by two years of oats or winter wheat. Our farm is currently one of the smaller seed farms in the state. Our

acreage has not changed in many years and each rotation is nearly the same. Do you grow other vegetables, and if so, how many acres of each type? In the past, we have grown sweet corn, field corn, snap beans and peas, but for the last five years our rotation crops are oats and winter wheat. The total farm land acreage is 420. The seed potato business is very specialized. How did your family get interested in seed potatoes, and how is growing and harvesting seed potatoes different from potato and vegetable growing? Growing seed has been a long tradition in our Above and Opposite Page: Bill Guenthner works the land where he grew up in Antigo, Wisconsin, with the old homestead shown circa the 1920s, complete with hay being blown up into the loft, and the home and outbuildings as they are today.

family. The Antigo area has always had a great reputation for growing quality seed potatoes. The difference in growing a seed potato crop versus a commercial crop really comes down to the source of the seed we plant. This must be foundation class. There are two required summer inspections, a warehouse cleanliness inspection and a post-harvest inspection, which is a sample of each lot re-grown in Hawaii and tested for disease percentage. Are the tools, machinery and methods different for planting, growing and harvesting, and if so, how? Planting and harvesting operations are very similar, with the main difference being the amount of small lots a seed farm must plant and harvest. Before moving to a new lot, all equipment must be inspected, washed and disinfected to ensure cleanliness, as well as there being no mixture in varieties. There are several seed potato farms in the Antigo area. Is the soil ideal, and how, and are there other reasons for the locality? Antigo silt loam is the state soil, and it requires a lot less irrigation than sandy soil. It’s also isolated from the commercial growing areas, which reduces virus and disease pressure. Congratulations on your new

position as president of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association (WSPIA). How long have you been on the board, and why is it important for you to be involved? Thank you. I have just started my fifth year on the WSPIA Board. It has been a great learning

experience. The WSPIA Board deals with preparing a promotions budget, serving as an advisory committee to the operations of the state seed farm and giving grower perspectives on regulatory issues or new bills that are introduced in the legislature. continued on pg. 10

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Interview. . . continued from pg. 9

The WSPIA Board helps organize the Spud Seed Classic golf outing, which is our main fundraising event. The funds raised are then donated to agriculture research facilities, agriculture researchers or other local charities. The WPVGA staff has played a major role in the success of this fundraiser.

nuclear stock for the State Farm.

Today the WSPIA Board is dealing with its biggest concern to date, University of Wisconsin system budget cuts. The UW Dept. of Plant Pathology within the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences is responsible for generating the

But the university now expects the Seed Certification Program to also generate enough income to pay the fringe benefits for the UW employees currently working for the program. We are still in discussions with the UW about this issue, but if

The State Farm in Rhinelander is where most of Wisconsin’s early generation seed is grown. The Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program is self-sufficient, using seed potato sales, acreage fees and winter test fees to cover program expenses.

it happens, there will be increases to State Farm seed prices, acreage fees and winter testing fees. This would put Wisconsin seed potato producers at a disadvantage compared to other states. Growing seed is very competitive and prices vary year to year just like the table stock, chip and processing markets, which depend on supply and demand. With increased fees, seed growers would have to increase prices to commercial growers, which could have a negative impact on the entire industry. Are there any other pending issues for the WSPIA? Yes, Wisconsin is Left: Potato grading equipment is well utilized in the fall on Guenthner Farms Inc., but even after grading, part of meeting the certified seed requirements is a post-harvest inspection, which is a sample of each lot re-grown in Hawaii and tested for disease percentage. Right: Dave Andraschko (second from right) and his grandson, Henry (right), check potatoes as they are loaded into bins. Dave is technically the only full-time employee of Guenthner Farms Inc., as Tom Schmidt, who also works there full time, is part owner of the farming operation. Bottom: Outbuildings on Guenthner Farms Inc. include one with the “Guenthner Farms Inc. Grower & Shipper/Wisconsin Certified Seed Potatoes” sign.

10 BC�T June

in the process of implementing a certified seed law. Wisconsin and Michigan are currently the only states without a certified seed law. We are currently part of the State National Harmonization Plan. A seed law would increase the likelihood that we can trade seed potatoes internationally, and it will help reduce the potential for viruses and disease in commercial potato fields. We hope to pass a certified seed potato law yet this year. What are the most important things you’ve learned over the years? Any advice for others? Potato farming is a very rewarding occupation. Your job descriptions change daily going from equipment operator to laborer or office staff. Being such a small farm has advantages and disadvantages. One of the most important advantages is that our customers know that every acre planted, sprayed, cultivated, hilled, harvested and shipped has been done by myself or Tom. With the good come the bad. The biggest disadvantage of being a small farm is that you are the only person to rely on. We don’t have multiple continued on pg. 12 DEPARTMENT:

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Right: Three generations of proud Guenthners APPROVAL: include Dwayne (front), his son, Bill (center), and grandson, Riley (top). The tractor is a 1971 International 1066 that Dwayne bought new.

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Interview. . . continued from pg. 11

employees to take care of things when we can’t be there, so we must be there. Most of the time I enjoy the work I do on the farm. The days I don’t enjoy Above: Tom Schmidt operates the Massey Ferguson 7490 while seeding oats, pulling a cultimulcher and a seeder that can hold up to 1,400 pounds of seed. Tom (left), standing with Bill Guenthner (right) in front of the seeder, is part owner of Guenthner Farms Inc., and has enjoyed steady work there since 1974. Left: Sorting, grading and storage are part of the Guenthner Farms Inc. operation, where a semi can be loaded with potatoes from the holding tank in 35 minutes. Bottom: Outbuilding on Guenthner Farms Inc.

12 BC�T June

are spent sitting behind my desk. The one thing Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned from being a farmer is to never stop learning about growing potatoes because, if you do, you will find yourself farming in the past. Life is good when there is dirt 04-17 Badger Common'Tater 1-3page AD on your hands.

Is there anything you fear? Anything you look forward to? I think the agriculture industry is going to be very challenging moving forward. The biggest concerns are added regulations and a decrease in (7x3).v1.outlines.pdf 1 2017-03-28 9:33 AM workforce population.

Top: Bill Golbach helps out on the farm, driving the Massey Ferguson 7497 and pulling a field cultivator. Bottom: Bins, totes and boxes are used to store potatoes on Guenthner Farms Inc. Two bins in the storage building, combined, can hold up to 26,000 cwt. (hundredweight) of potatoes.

BCďż˝T June 13

Wisconsin Sees Healthy Lake Levels

Decisions on water use and high-cap wells should be based on science, not emotion By Joe Kertzman, Managing Editor, Badger Common’Tater It’s time to look at lake levels, especially on the eve of Gov. Scott Walker likely signing into law SB 76, legislation allowing high-capacity well owners to repair, replace, reconstruct and transfer ownership of previously approved wells without additional Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approval (see “Now News” this issue).

common in the Central Sands region of Wisconsin and have neither inflow nor outflow streams.

Lakes are subject to fluctuation from year to year. Groundwater flow-through lakes are relatively

“An example of lake level fluctuation has been observed on Long Lake, located near Plainfield, where water

A 1978 study published by the Wisconsin Geologic and Natural History Survey indicated that water levels could vary up to about 10 feet on flow-through lakes in Wisconsin over the period of study.

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levels have risen several feet in recent years, as shown in an accompanying photograph,” says Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Executive Director Tamas Houlihan. “The rise in water levels in Long and other flow-through lakes is likely the result of climate changes and careful and improved water management by the agricultural community,” Houlihan adds. Gary Woyak, of Taterland Farms, Inc., in Plainfield, says he was tired of seeing the same picture running several times in the Stevens Point Journal of a dock in Plainfield Lake Above: Compare this image of Long Lake near Plainfield in Waushara County, Wisconsin, to pictures that have run in the Stevens Point Journal and other newspapers showing the dock with grass under it and the far end of the dock not quite reaching the edge of the water. With recent rains, the Plainfield Lake water level is high, and the grasses are submerged underwater. Photo courtesy of Samantha Cypher, RPE

that had grass under it, with the far end of the dock not quite reaching the edge of the water. The image illustrates a low water level on Plainfield Lake, and implies or explicitly states (depending on the article) that the cause is high-capacity well irrigation.

increase in the water table since 2008. The studies, as proposed in SB 76/ AB 105, as well as those already

“People are prone to say, when the lake level is low, it has to do with irrigation,” Woyak continues. “When there’s no inlet and outlet, these seepage lakes are just like bathtubs; if it’s a dry season, they drain, and if wet, they fill up.” As another example, just south of Nekoosa, on the western end of the Central Sands and in an area of over 5,000 acres of irrigated agriculture, well-testing data shows a six-foot

continued on pg. 16

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CYCLICAL WATER LEVEL “It’s a seepage lake, and the water level goes in cycles depending on how much rain we’ve had,” Woyak states. “You hear stories of Plainfield Lake in the 1930’s and ’40s, before irrigation, and they were cutting hay down at the bottom of the lake bed because there had been no water. They were going in there with tractors and horses, and cutting hay.”

Above: The Plainfield Lake level was high in April when this picture was taken, extending up to and past trees that were once growing on the bank. A wet spring is a major contributing factor.

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Wisconsin Sees Healthy Lake Levels. . . continued from pg. 15

underway by the WPVGA, will result in a better understanding of the sustainability of the groundwater resources and improved decision making on the permitting and use of high-capacity wells. “It’s important for our livelihood,” Woyak says. “We need to pump water. Yesterday, I was working on well water reports [hours and pumping data] we fill out for the DNR, and our pumping last year was down 50 percent. When you compare two years together, we had a lot

16 BC�T June

of timely rains last year. We’d get rain, then pump once, and we’d get another nice rain, and then pump once again.” “I have a pond on our land that I had the DNR put in, and right now the water is six or seven inches over the top of the dock because we’ve had a lot of rain this spring,” he says. “We’re probably one of the most fortunate states in the country. We have water tables under us that I don’t think will ever quit producing.”

Above Left: By the time the author/photographer made it down to Pleasant Lake, south of Coloma, on a showery April day, the rains had picked up again, the boats were covered, and walking ramps from the docks to the sandy banks were necessary to avoid jumping over water to get onto the piers. Above Right: Lake Huron, southeast of Plainfield, is at a high, healthy water level, with floating docks ready and waiting for summertime recreational activities. Below: Even an extension of the dock toward land didn’t reach the bank on Fish Lake, south of Plainfield in Hancock, Wisconsin, when the photographer snapped this shot in April of 2017. Rains have continued, with a wet May also in the record books.

SEED PIECE From Test Tube to Plate UW-Madison program keeps seed potatoes clean By Eric Hamilton, UW-Madison University Communications

Years before that French fry landed on your plate, the plant that would eventually give rise to the spud your fry was cut from was sealed away deep in a secure-access building, growing slowly in a test tube inside a locked growth chamber. At least, it was if it was the product of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program, or WSPCP (for more information, visit online at: labs.russell.wisc.edu/seedpotato), a 104-year-old program run by the University of Wisconsin-Madison dedicated to supplying Wisconsin seed potato farmers with quality, disease-free tubers. Above: Micro-tuber potato cultivars used in research by the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program are grown inside an environmentally controlled room that’s part of the Biotron Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Photo courtesy of Bryce Richter

MARKET LEADING CONTROL OF COLORADO POTATO BEETLE AND FAST, EFFECTIVE CONTROL OF OTHER KEY PESTS.

All that security helps keep these important plants clean. And clean is a big deal for potatoes. Because they are grown from the eyes of tubers, called seed potatoes, rather than from true seeds, potatoes can easily carry bacterial and viral diseases in their starchy flesh from generation to generation. The solution is exacting cleanliness and rigorous testing at every stage of potato propagation. WSPCP supplies 70 percent of the tubers for Wisconsin’s 9,000 acres continued on pg. 18

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BC�T June 17

Seed Piece. . . continued from pg. 17

of farmland dedicated to propagating seed potatoes. The program certifies 200 million pounds of seed potatoes every year, enough to plant roughly 90,000 acres for commercial growing. Those spuds are then sold to commercial potato growers in Wisconsin, other states and around the world to be turned into farmfresh potatoes, chips and fries. Each one of those potatoes’ progenitors once passed through the hands of two plant pathology researchers at UW-Madison, Andy Witherell and Brooke Babler. In about three months, they can turn a handful of small potato plants growing in test tubes into hundreds. Multiply that by dozens of different varieties of potatoes—Caribou Russet, Magic Molly, German Butterball—and together Witherell and Babler produce tens of thousands of potato plantlets every year. BIOTRON, A STERILE ENVIRONMENT Witherell and Babler work out of the Biotron (see online at: news.wisc. edu/biotron-puts-any-environment-

on-earth-within-researchers-reach/), a facility on the UW-Madison campus designed to replicate any climate needed for research. The building’s secure access and clean protocols help them scrub the potato plants of any diseases and propagate them in sterile environments until they’re ready to plant in soil. “This is a good place to grow plants because we’ve got a system that’s really clean,” explains Witherell. “ The Biotron air is filtered, and we

Above: Brooke Babler and Andy Witherell check on micro-propagated potato plants housed in test tubes at the Biotron Laboratory. Photo courtesy of Bryce Richter

have a clean room to work with.” The researchers start by sterilizing an eye of a tuber and then inducing it to grow in a sterile container full of a jelly-like growth medium containing bacteria- and virusinhibiting chemicals. As the spud sprouts into a small plant, they ramp up the heat to try to kill off any viruses. Then they clip off a portion of the shoot and replant it in a clean test tube of growth medium. Babler and Witherell can keep their plantlets in stasis in cold storage until the call comes in—i.e., “308 plantlets of dark red Norlands are needed by July.”

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Babler pulls out a box with several plantlets and takes them to the clean room, a space about the size of a parking place. On a sterile work surface, she takes out a scalpel and slices the plants into several pieces before replanting them in a new box. Just a small portion of one plant’s stem will grow an entirely new plant under the right conditions. In this way, eight potato plants become 30. Four weeks later, those

30 become 80 and then 80 become 310. They are all genetically identical clones of one another, and they are all still clean. Thousands of plantlets of different varieties are shipped to the program’s farm in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, where they are grown hydroponically or in pots to begin producing tubers. ONE GIVES RISE TO MANY Over several generations, one plant gives rise to many spuds, which in turn are replanted to make even more potatoes. In a few growing seasons, what once was handled by Witherell and Babler in the Biotron now weighs hundreds of millions of pounds and requires the work of two dozen independent, certified farms to manage. Along their journey, the potatoes are screened for diseases that might have crept in. Once Babler and Witherell leave the Biotron for the day (they don’t return, the better to keep from bringing in pathogens from outside), they work in Russell Laboratories, where they help run diagnostic tests on potatoes to screen for viral and bacterial infections.

like Dickeya, which spread primarily through infected seed potatoes. Only those potatoes with a healthy pedigree get the WSPCP seal of approval. A portion of the sale of each bag of potatoes that commercial growers buy, certified to be as clean as possible, supports this years-long, labor-intensive process.

Above: Potatoes cascade down a conveyer system designed to sort them by size. The Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program certifies 200 million pounds of seed potatoes every year, enough to plant roughly 90,000 acres for commercial growing. Photo courtesy of Bryce Richter

It’s a certification well worth the price, ensuring that Wisconsin potato growers continue to succeed and helping keep the state one of the top producers of potatoes in the country.

“Part of the certification process is to walk the fields and visually assess plants for the disease,” says Babler, a native of Viroqua, Wisconsin, who earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at UW-Madison. “You can visually assess plants, but sometimes you can’t tell exactly what the disease is,” she notes. “So, the inspectors ship the plants back to us and we do diagnostics throughout the growing season.” As part of her research, Babler is developing an improved test for a relatively new potato disease, Dickeya. The bacteria can spoil up to a quarter of a farmer’s yield under the right conditions, and has recently taken hold in North America. Seed potato programs like the WSPCP are designed to detect and restrict the spread of new diseases

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Now News Little Plover River Model Now Online

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20 BC�T June

N A T U R A L

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Bulletin 111 • 2017

Groundwater model, user’s guide and report can be downloaded free of charge The Little Plover River groundwater model, user’s guide and report are now complete and can be downloaded from the Wisconsin Geological Survey website at http:// wgnhs.uwex.edu/little-plover-rivergroundwater-model/. The model was developed by the scientists at the Wisconsin Geological and Natural History Survey (WGNHS) and the U.S. Geological Survey. It was commissioned by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. This state-of-the-art tool demonstrates the scientific relationships between groundwater, lakes and streams, and high-capacity wells. The model allows users to

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test different ways of managing groundwater in the Central Sands area of the state. In Wisconsin’s Central Sands, stretches of the Little Plover River have gone dry in past years. Some people have blamed high-capacity wells, while others cite changing land use, climate change or natural weather patterns. To evaluate the effects of different stresses on the river, the WGNHS and the U.S. Geological Survey developed the groundwater flow model. A groundwater flow model provides a fundamental science basis for landuse decisions. It is a scientific tool for understanding

Kenneth R. Bradbury Michael N. Fienen Maribeth L. Kniffin Jacob J. Krause Stephen M. Westenbroek Andrew T. Leaf Paul M. Barlow

the complexities of geology, groundwater recharge and discharge, surface-water flow, well development and use, and water balance. A model can simulate the complex temporal and spatial interactions among streamflow, pumping and climate, and also provide users “what-if” evaluations of possible decisions involving management of water use or land-use changes. If you would like more information about this project or other work on Wisconsin groundwater and geology, please contact Carol McCartney at 608-263-7393 or carol.mccartney@ uwex.edu, or Ken Bradbury, WGNHS director and state geologist, at ken.bradbury@wgnhs.uwex.edu.

Area 4th Grader Draws Logo for Potato Grower Mortenson Bros. Farms, Inc. throws class a pizza party in appreciation

Adrianna Cleland - Mrs. Rettler, Tri-County Elementary School

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When Tri-County Elementary School 4th grader, Adrianna Cleland, drew a logo for Mortenson Bros. Farms, Inc., of Plainfield, Wisconsin, little did she know her entire class would get a pizza party in appreciation. Cleland drew the logo as part of a “Kids by Design” contest sponsored by the Waushara Argus newspaper, in which students choose an area business to represent through their artwork. In appreciate for her hard work, potato and vegetable grower Mortenson Bros. Farms, Inc. threw a pizza party for Cleland’s 4th grade class, including teacher Mrs. Jessica Rettler, on March 31. The class, in turn, made a card and all the students signed it for Mortenson Bros. Farms.

The Tri-County 4th graders aren’t the only ones showing appreciation to Mortenson Bros. Farms, which recently received a note from the Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin for its annual donation. As part of the “Field to Foodbank” program, the Second Harvest Foodbank and the University of Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Agriculture solicit and accept donations from local growers and agri-businesses that are “working together to end hunger through community partnerships.” continued on pg. 22

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Top Left: Tri-County Elementary School 4th grader, Adrianna Cleland, drew this Mortenson Bros. Farms, Inc. logo as part of a “Kids by Design” contest sponsored by the Waushara Argus newspaper. In appreciation, Mortenson Bros. Farms threw a pizza party for Adrianna’s class. Top Right: “A ‘thank you party’ of this size deserves a thank you back!” is the message on a card the Tri-County Elementary School 4th graders signed and gave to Mortenson Bros. Farms after the Plainfield, Wisconsin, potato and vegetable grower threw a pizza party for the class. RIght: Mortenson Bros. Farms donates annually to the Second Harvest Foodbank of Southern Wisconsin, “working to end hunger through community partnership,” and received a note of appreciation from the foodbank and the University of Wisconsin Institute for Sustainable Agriculture.

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BC�T June 21

Now News. . . continued from pg. 21

Wisconsin Farm Bureau Applauds Passage of SB 76 High-capacity well bill moves on to the Governor, and two more bills clear Senate Tuesday, May 2, at around 8 p.m., with a vote of 62-35, the Wisconsin State Assembly concurred on Senate Bill 76, the legislation allowing high-capacity well owners to repair, replace, reconstruct and transfer ownership of their wells without additional Department of Natural Resources (DNR) approval and directing the DNR to study specific areas in the Central Sands. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation (WFBF) applauds the State Assembly’s passage of a bill that provides certainty to farmers with existing high-capacity wells on their farms. “It is important for farmers with highcapacity wells to have financial and regulatory certainty,” WFBF President Jim Holte says. “They need to know they will be able to water their livestock and irrigate their crops as previously approved by the DNR.” SB 76 states that no additional approval is needed for an existing high-capacity well, or to repair or maintain the well, to construct a replacement high-capacity well of substantially the same depth within a 75-foot radius of the existing well, to reconstruct the existing well, or to transfer the approval of a highcapacity well as part of the sale of land where the well is located. The bill also requires DNR to study the hydrology of specific water bodies in Wisconsin’s Central Sands and report those findings to the Legislature. NO NEW WITHDRAWALS “It should be noted that no new water withdrawals are being approved under this bill; but rather, 22 BC�T June

existing wells are either being repaired for continued use, replaced for continued use or being owned by a different person for the same use,” Holte explains. SB 76 now moves to Gov. Scott Walker for his review and signature. Earlier in the day, the State Senate approved both the potato late blight (SB 20) and the certified seed potato legislation (SB 23) bills on voice votes. SB 20—the potato late blight bill— provides that the treatment of late blight of potatoes by use of an antisporulant, when ordered by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), must be completed within 24 hours of the order’s issuance. Furthermore, the destruction of plants due to late blight of potatoes, when ordered by DATCP, must be completed within 72 hours of the order’s issuance. Under current law, a person has 10 days to comply

with an order form DATCP regarding abatement. The bill also allows DATCP to extend the time for abating late blight of potatoes if the ordered treatment or destruction cannot be completed in time due to adverse weather conditions. CERTIFIED SEED BILL SB 23, the certified seed potato bill, requires a person who plants five or more acres of potatoes in a year to use only seed potatoes that are certified by the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences of the University of Wisconsin-Madison under existing rules promulgated by DATCP, or by an equivalent program in another state. The bill allows DATCP to waive the certification requirement if there are not enough certified seed potatoes reasonably available to growers. The bill also requires a person who grows five or more acres of potatoes in a year to keep certain

records of each field of seed potatoes planted during a growing season. A person who plants seed potatoes in violation of the certification requirements under SB 23 would be subject to a forfeiture of not more than $150, plus $150 for each acre planted in violation. A person who

violates the records-retention or inspection requirements under the bill is subject to a forfeiture of not more than $200. Both bills are drafted in the spirit of protecting growers, crops and neighboring potato and vegetable farms.

Wisconsin Hosts PMANA Conference

and Canada will be attending the conference, which will be held at the Chula Vista Resort in Wisconsin Dells.

Potato Marketing Association of North America brings visitors to state July 16-18, 2017, the Wisconsin potato industry will host the Potato Marketing Association of North America (PMANA) Conference. PMANA is an organization that gathers “information pertaining to bargaining and the potato industry,

on a North American level.” PMANA helps member associations stay informed in the bargaining process and works to maintain profitability to the producers (see www.pmana.org). Representatives from other potatogrowing regions in the United States

Please contact the WPVGA at 715-623-7683 with any questions. continued on pg. 24

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Wisconsin potato growers are welcome to attend as well. Visit http://wisconsinpotatoes.com/ admin/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/ Agenda-PMANA-Summer-Meetings. pdf for the agenda, and to register, go to http://wisconsinpotatoes. com/admin/wp-content/ uploads/2017/04/2017-PMANARegistration-Form.pdf.

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The next step is for the Assembly Ag Committee to hold a hearing on the two bills so they can be taken to the Assembly floor for final passage during the fall session. The Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) supports the passage of SB 20 and SB 23.

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Quality Potato Equipment BC�T June 23

Now News. . . continued from pg. 23

Altmann Construction Wins “SILVER Projects of Distinction” ABC recognizes company for grizzly bear exhibit at Wildwood Zoo in Marshfield Altmann Construction Company, Inc. was recognized as completing some of the most impressive and unique construction work in 2016. The Wisconsin Rapids company received a SILVER Projects of Distinction Award by Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin for the Grizzly Bear Exhibit Expansion at the Wildwood Zoo in Marshfield. “Altmann Construction is both proud and truly grateful to receive this award,” says Tom Altmann, vice president of operations at Altmann Construction.

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“We thank them for recognizing our work on this unique and challenging project,” Altmann adds. “We are truly honored to receive such a distinguished award and be honored alongside so many quality companies and individuals in the construction industry who have such an impact on the building community.”

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The JP Adler Bear Exhibit spans over 40,000 square feet. It is enclosed by simulated rock structures and built over 18-foot high concrete walls. It features a 78-foot bridge connecting the entire exhibit. Innovative design and construction challenges were executed to meet the allocated time frame.

“The intensity of the evaluation process by judges is an indicator of how deserving the winners are,” said John Mielke, ABC of Wisconsin president. “There are many criteria used in the process, with the biggest being onsite safety, unusual circumstances or challenges and the overall quality of construction delivered to the customer.” The Projects of Distinction Awards, which recognize projects built on merit, were presented February 9 at the Glacial Canyon Conference Center in Wisconsin Dells. Nearly 400 attendees were on hand to experience the many highquality projects that ABC member contractors delivered for business 24 BC�T June

and industry, including Steve Burns and Ben Steinbach, City of Marshfield, and Russ Drewery, HGA Architects and Engineers. For more information, contact Tammy Meyers at tmeyers@ altmannconstruction.com,

or call 715-421-2550. Altmann Construction, Inc. is a general contractor employing over 50 people and is located at 5921 Plover Road in Wisconsin Rapids. The company built its reputation by consistently delivering quality work with a high level of craftsmanship. Altmann Construction does more than simply build beautiful structures, they build structures that provide a future for the people who live and work in them.

Wisconsin Potato Industry Feeds Starving Children Mobile potato-meal packing event set for June 17 in Stevens Point Making a commitment to alleviate world hunger, the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) and the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary (WPGA) are once again sponsoring a potato-meal packing event to help feed hungry children all over the globe. Following highly successful events the past five years, members of the Wisconsin potato industry, along with their families and friends, will gather at the Noel Hangar at the Stevens Point Municipal Airport on Saturday, June 17 to pack 100,000 servings

of MannaPack™ Potato meals, developed by the non-profit Christian charitable organization, Feed My Starving Children (FMSC). MannaPack Potato servings are formulated to prevent starvation in children using dehydrated potatoes, vitamins and minerals. Approximately $24,000 will be raised to fund the 100,000 meal packs. Right: Jerry Bushman of Bushmans’, Inc. (seated) and his wife, Barb (right), were ready and willing volunteers at the 2016 Feed My Starving Children MobilePack event. continued on pg. 26

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Now News. . . continued from pg. 25

“The MannaPacks were created to be easily digested by young malnourished children,” explains Ali Carter, vice president of the WPGA and event coordinator. “In particular, the Potato-W formula we are packing at the event supplies that very needed nourishment when other forms of food, including the MannaPack Rice formula, are not an option.” “This is an incredible opportunity to come together as an industry and as a community to impact the lives of these children in a profound way,” she adds. Carter says the ingredients are purchased entirely through the generosity of donors. With each FMSC meal costing only 24 cents to produce, and 92 percent of all donations going directly to the

“This is an incredible opportunity to come together as an industry and as a community to impact the lives of these children in a profound way” feeding program, gifts of all sizes go a long way in the fight against world hunger. A total of 320 volunteers will be working two-hour shifts throughout the day. THE GIFT OF GIVING “Giving the gift of your time is very rewarding,” says Paula Houlihan, president of the WPGA and event coordinator. “It’s a simple, but powerful process. We offer volunteers the choice of where they want to donate their time, whether it’s filling bags, sealing packs, refilling

ingredients or stacking filled boxes for shipping. “We also continuously show a video from FMSC about the potato packs and stories about the children who benefit from them. It’s very moving,” Houlihan remarks. Members of the Wisconsin potato industry have been strong supporters of the FMSC meal packing program since the idea was introduced six years ago. Mike Carter, CEO of Bushmans’, Inc., Rosholt, heard about the program through the United States Potato Board (now Potatoes USA), and has spearheaded the fundraising efforts in Wisconsin. “We are thankful to the WPVGA and the Auxiliary for their generous donations of both time and money toward this incredible event,” he says. “Bushmans’, Inc. will continue to support this meal-packing event, and we are grateful for all the other potato industry members who participate financially as well as through volunteering.” “This event really shines a spotlight on the generous nature of our industry,” Carter stresses. “We are truly making a difference in the lives of thousands of less fortunate people.” In the last five years, the Wisconsin potato industry has helped pack and distribute over 600,000 meals to hungry children around the globe. To register for or donate to the Wisconsin potato MobilePack event, please visit: https://give.fmsc. org/stevens-point/events/1706080wau-stevens-point-wi-wi-potatomobilepack/e118143.

26 BC�T June

Marketplace

By Dana Rady, WPVGA Director of Promotions & Consumer Education

Potato Promotions Enjoy Top Priority Status As I write this column for another issue of the Badger Common’Tater, I’m baffled at how fast this last year flew by. In what seems like the blink of an eye, another planting season has begun and another fiscal year is on the horizon. Per the normal timeline of events, the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Promotions Committee met in March once again to collectively discuss initiatives as we head into fiscal year 2017-’18, which officially begins July 1. There are several promotions returning to the program again, as well as some new ideas we welcomed into the mix. For starters, the promotions committee continues to support appearances at local and national trade shows; cover registration costs

for industry-related individuals at Powered by Wisconsin Potatoes events; donate salad bars to schools

Above: During the 2017 WPVGA Promotions Retreat in Wisconsin Dells, March 23, Rod Kolash of Mad Dog and Merrill shared a map depicting television coverage across the country for the duo’s Mad Dog & Merrill Midwest Grill’n cooking show.

through the Potatoes USA/United Fresh partnership; provide the continued on pg. 28

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BC�T June 27

Marketplace. . . continued from pg. 27

Spudmobile and our new mascot, Spudly, to requesting organizations free of charge and purchase promotions-related items that showcase the Healthy Grown program and Wisconsin’s commitment to sustainable farming practices. There are also several returning partnerships that have proved beneficial in recent years, and the committee is confident they will take us to even higher levels with their renewal. These opportunities include: Mad Dog and Merrill. If you haven’t

seen them, you’re missing out. Mad Dog and Merrill are the grilling duo that hosts a weekly TV show featuring unique and creative ways to grill just about everything you could imagine. Visit the website, www. maddogandmerrill.com, and check your local television listings for show times and stations. Part of WPVGA’s sponsorship of Mad Dog and Merrill specifically involves mentions by them of the Wisconsin potato industry; an episode devoted to Wisconsin potatoes and the

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Buy Local concept; a commercial video shoot and the inclusion of a 30-second commercial in current episodes; and Mad Dog and Merrill appearances at WPVGA-related events, to name a few things. With their fun-loving attitudes and unique senses of humor, we are happy to work with them for a fourth year. Left: Tina Weiss shared information about Kids from Wisconsin with the WPVGA Promotions Committee on March 23 at a retreat in Wisconsin Dells. RIght: WPVGA Promotions Committee members listen intently to presentations at the Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells. Pictured from left to right are: Jim Zdroik, WPVGA coordinator of community relations, Mike Gatz of Bushmans’ Inc., Mark Finnessy of Okray Family Farms and Andy Diercks of Coloma Farms. OPPOSITE PAGE:

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Left: There’s no shortage of fun at the annual WPVGA Promotions Retreat, which is typically held in March. This year, the Promotions Committee welcomed some new members: Tim Huffcutt of RPE (far left) and Deniell Bula of the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary (far right). Also pictured are: Heidi Alsum-Randall (center left) and Christine Lindner (center right), both of Alsum Farms and Produce. RIght: Two days of discussions and budget planning at the 2017 Promotions Retreat didn’t slow down anyone at this table. Pictured from left to right are Promotions Committee Chairman Chris Brooks of Central Door Solutions, WPVGA Executive Director Tamas Houlihan and Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary President Paula Houlihan.

Tundra Super Late Models. Tundra Super Late Models are Powered by Wisconsin Potatoes! A car racing series that travels the Wisconsin circuit throughout the summer for six different races is another one of WPVGA’s avenues for reaching consumers. With the Powered by Wisconsin Potatoes logo visible on racecars, websites and social media, Spudmobile appearances at races and the opportunity to drive Wisconsin’s traveling billboard on the track for the first lap in front of hundreds of fans, what is there to say “no” to?

potatoes, her message carries clout that resonates with the very people who are deciding which potatoes to buy in the produce department. If you haven’t met Sarah yet, don’t worry, you’ll have plenty of opportunities coming up since she will be working with us for a second year. Short Track Sponsorship. Similar to

the Tundra Super Late Models, the Short Track car racing series is an opportunity for WPVGA promotions, and in this instance, features only one car on the circuit that is “Powered by Wisconsin Potatoes.” The car was displayed in February at the 2017 Grower Education Conference and Industry Show, and sported a very large Powered by Wisconsin Potatoes logo on the hood. continued on pg. 30

This is another partnership that is entering its fourth year with the promotions committee, and we are looking forward what it will bring. Registered Dietician/Wisconsin Beef Council. Sarah Agena is a bubble of energy and certainly knows her potatoes after spending a year working on various WPVGA promotions-related initiatives and events. A registered dietician, she has helped at various Spudmobile events, provided potato dish samples to customers at a number of retail stores and promoted a WPVGA partnership with the Wisconsin Beef Council through “meat and potato” tastings, to name a few things. As she speaks with consumers about all the nutrition and health benefits that are packed in Wisconsin BC�T June 29

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complex carbohydrates helping process. The group then provides bodies recover from exercise. This is musical entertainment at a variety a message the Powered by Wisconsin of events like fairs and community Potatoes events have helped concerts, for example. With this communicate, which now will be year’s sponsorship of the lively group exemplified by working with Pavelski. comes their agreement to wear Besides these fabulous returning Wisconsin potato industry related Cone Tanks: 70 Gallons to 12,000 Gallons Vertical Tanks: 16 Gallons to 16,000 Gallons opportunities are some new On the docket of ideas is shooting a t-shirts when they are out and • Tanks come standard with total drain bolted fitting • UV inhibitors partnerships as we enter themolded in for longer tank life commercial involving Pavelski and with flat spot for total drainage • Conical bottom • Easy to read molded in gallonage indicators about, as well as the ability to have upcoming fiscal year. They include: a photoshoot capturing images of • 18” make lid is standard on all large tanks • 2” or 3” outlets available on larger the tanks Spudmobile and Spudly him that would be used on various Kids from Wisconsin. This is an • Molded in tie down lugs • Siphon tubes to help with drainage various appearances at their events promotional materials, to name a opportunity that •focuses on younger 18” lid is standard on all large tanks throughout the summer.• UV inhibitors molded in for longer tank life couple examples. • Engineered welded steel stand available in tie downfor lugs for securing tanks generations being• Molded ambassadors Pavelski. A native of •Plover, Joe 3 - Year warranty from date of shipment • 3 - Year warrantywith from date ofJoe shipment the Wisconsin potato industry Roughly another month remains in playsfittings, for theaccessories National Hockey Don’t forget toKids pick up Pavelski your Pumps, and hose from Ag Systems. whomever they come in contact. the current fiscal year before we League’s San Jose Sharks and was also www.agsystemsonline.com from Wisconsin is a program that hit the ground running with the captain for Team USA in the recent provides young adults ages 15-20 above programs and more. While with the chance to perform for a wide winter Olympics. the programs may change, the range of audiences throughout state message and vision of promoting Working with a well-known sports each year. the Wisconsin potato industry and figure like Pavelski fits in well with So when spectators see that brightcolored beautiful logo traveling around the track this spring, they know exactly what is keeping the car going for a third consecutive year.

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One of the biggest headaches in 2,800 HOURS, 1,000 GALLON SS TANK, 90’ BOOMS, GREENSTAR CONTROLS, CHEM INDUCTOR, 380 TIRES, OVERALL NICE MACHINE agricultural spraying is getting your

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Spudmobile Hits Food for America Event in Rosholt The Spudmobile continues to maintain a busy schedule, visiting events all over the state and Midwest to promote Wisconsin potatoes and all their benefits. One visit took place recently in the vehicle’s own “backyard” of Rosholt, Wisconsin—a Food for America event hosted by the Future Farmers of America Rosholt chapter. About 200 participants in grades Pre-K through 5 learned more about the Wisconsin potato industry thanks to the Spudmobile’s presence. How great it is to share information with these hungry minds about such an important industry in our state!

Right: WPVGA Coordinator of Community Relations Jim Zdroik shares Wisconsin potato facts with these inquisitive students at the Food for America Rosholt FFA event on May 5, 2017.

Above: WWPVGA Coordinator of Community Relations Jim Zdroik poses some potato-related questions to this group of students in Rosholt.

Above: Doug Foemmel (far right in green shirt) is intrigued by these students as he shows them information on the “Potato Variety and Recipe” kiosk.

Below: WPVGA Spudmobile Assistant Doug Foemmel (center, green shirt) welcomes another group of Rosholt students into the Spudmobile to share details with them about the Wisconsin potato industry.

Above: There’s nothing like a little competition to keep things moving when you get to play games at school. These Rosholt students are thoroughly enjoying the “bug game” on the Spudmobile’s Interactive touch table exhibit. BC�T June 31

Microbes: Workforce of the Soil The microbial lifeforms digest plant debris, chemical residues, fertilizer salts and more By Doug Traxel, national sales manager, and Wayne Tucker, vice president of sales and marketing, Bio S.I. Technology, LLC Over the last 20 years, there have been many breakthroughs in the use of microbes and microbial products to handle an array of issues concerning plant diseases, soil crusting, nutrient recycling, and water and nutrient efficiency. Microbes are the microscopic lifeforms that digest plant debris, chemical residues, fertilizer salts and other remnants that tie up water and nutrients in the soil, making them unavailable for plant use. One of the most important activities of microbes is building “humus.” This is the carbon component of the soil that holds onto water, nutrients and Right: Shown is Bio S.I. Technology’s organic liquid room where microbial products are stored and readied for shipping to farms where they’ll reinvigorate and enliven the soil.

other soil components to help the soil function. Carbon is considered the engine of the soil.

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Setting the Standard for Wear! 32 BC�T June

Microbes should be part of a fertilizer program, whether on a conventional, sustainable or organic farm. They work to help rejuvenate the soil and bring balance to soil life. Bio S.I. Technology, LLC has been working in this field since 1989, and that was before it was considered good form to discuss microbes and their benefits for farming programs. Now that the information from around the world is proving the merits of biological programs, they are looked at as being a means to reduce the amount of chemicals growers need to apply. There are times when chemicals must be used, and it helps if growers can use the shortest-acting chemicals possible and then re-inoculate the soil with a microbial product such as Ag Formula from Bio S.I. Technology. COMPETITIVE EXCLUSION Soil microbes work to help enhance

the effectiveness of any program used on a farm. They are not silver bullets, and in most cases, do not kill pathogens, but rather keep them at bay by “competitive exclusion.” “Competitive exclusion” means the beneficial microbes out-compete the pathogens for space and food. The microbes are not fungicides or pesticides, but instead they work to help maintain a balance between beneficial microbes and pathogens so the soil works better, which results in healthy crops. Bio S.I. Technology has developed a three-step program that works to reduce disease pressure by improving plant vigor, improving the root zone size and the plants’ ability to attract more microbial diversity to the root zone. Microbes also work to free tied-up nutrients from soil particles, improve soil tilth and breakdown plant debris. So, Bio S.I. Technology developed its three-step program around establishing beneficial microbes in soil. The program can be started at any time of the year. If plants/seeds are in the ground already, 16 ounces of Ag Formula is sprayed per acre right over the top of plants, covering the entire field. If there is a lot of debris in the field, a grower can start with a combination of SD 25 and Ag Formula, applying 10 ounces of each product per acre with some nitrogen to get the debris broken down faster. This program works on any crop with some tweaking to fit planting schedules. The following steps are a guideline to help implement the program, keeping in mind that it can be started at any time of the season. If a field is already planted and plants are growing, start with Step 1, skip Step 2, and then, at harvest, go to Step 3. Change the small in-season application with Ag Formula to 6 ounces per acre, per month. Keep it simple, and work these steps to fit your farming practices.

R E BU ILD. R ESTO R E .

R E N E W.

Bio S.I.™ contains a broad and diverse spectrum of naturally occurring beneficial soil microbes. No laboratory engineered/modified microbes are used. Non-manure base.

For use on row crops, broadcast crops, pasture, citrus, fruit, nut trees, seeds, and horticulture. Application Rate: One gallon per 8 acres (pint per acre) fall and spring (4 oz/acre monthly is very beneficial).

NON PLANT FOOD INGREDIENTS Active Ingredients:

Arthrobacter globiformis.............................. 2.2 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas alcaligenes..............................2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus pumilus........................................... 2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus subtilis .............................................2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus licheniformis .................................. 1.8 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas fluorescens .......................... 1.4 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas putida.................................. 1.2 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes....................1 mil CFU/ml Acinetobacter calcoaceticus ........................ 0.4 mil CFU/ml Azotobacter vinelandii................................. 0.4 mil CFU/ml 0.06% Humic Acid (derived from leonardite)

Caution: Follow label instructions. SHAKE WELL

Application methods: Surface sprayer, through pivot, injected into any irrigation system to get even coverage. Use centrifugal, or diaphragm pumps for best results. Surface application: Apply one gallon per 8 acres (pint per acre). Mix with a minimum of 10 gallons of water per acre. Under dry conditions use more water. If mixing with fertilizer make 30% of the total solution water and ad the Bio-S.I. when you are ready to spray. Bio-S.I. ™ may be used with single herbicide products like glyphosates with 10% added water. Use the entire mixture; do not store any remaining solutions.

AGRICULTURAL FORMULA

Irrigation systems: Calibrate system to deliver one gallon per 8 acres (pint per acre). Bio-S.I.™ may be applied in stream with other chemicals through injection systems. Do not mix with other chemicals/fertilizer and store at pivot for injection over a long period of time. Use a separate container to inject Bio-S.I.™ from.

+ HUMIC ACID

Seed-bed applications: Bio-S.I.™ may be applied at planting with a spray nozzle directed onto the seed in the furrow before closure of the bed. A six inch band is best. Keep pressure at 40 PSI or less. Use one pint (16 oz) per row acre.

Handling: Eye protection: goggles, Hands: rubber gloves if cuts or abrasions exist. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Storage: Protect from direct sunlight for long periods, freezing, and temps above 130 degrees. DO NOT MIX WITH FUNGICIDES OR PESTICIDES NON-PLANT FOOD. Not recommended as a fertilizer substitute.

SEED & SOIL INOCULANT + Humic Acid

Exp. Date:

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

BENEFICIAL SOIL MICROBES

Warranty: The manufacturer makes no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, concerning the use of this product by the consumer. Any claim is limited to the replacement of product or refund of cost of product.

Contents: 5 Gallon / 18.9L

biositechnology.com

R E BU ILD. R ESTO R E .

R E N E W.

Bio S.I.™ is a soil inoculant that consists of a broad and diverse population of naturally occurring soil borne microorganisms to be applied to the plant or soil for the purpose of enhancing the availability or uptake of plant nutrients through the root system.

Manufactured by Bio S.I. Technology, LLC P.O. Box 784 Argyle, Texas 76226

Caution: Follow label instructions. SHAKE WELL AGRICULTURAL USE: For use on row crops, crop seed beds, vegetables, trees, vines, pasture, and horticulture. Application Rate: Apply one gallon per 8 row acres with enough water to obtain even coverage and to cause contact with the seed or roots. “Select” must come into contact with roots. Apply at earliest possible growth stage.

NON PLANT FOOD INGREDIENTS Active Ingredients:

Arthrobacter globiformis.............................. 2.2 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas alcaligenes .............................. 2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus pumilus............................................ 2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus subtilis ............................................. 2 mil CFU/ml Bacillus licheniformis .................................. 1.8 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas fluorescens........................... 1.4 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas putida .................................. 1.2 mil CFU/ml Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes.................... 1 mil CFU/ml Acinetobacter calcoaceticus......................... 0.4 mil CFU/ml Azotobacter vinelandii ................................. 0.4 mil CFU/ml

Application Methods: Apply through drip systems, pivots, surface spray rigs or other methods that can get the product into root zone. “SELECT” may be dribbled over the seed or fan sprayed over the seed. Do Not Use Roller or Piston pumps. Diaphragm or impeller pumps are best. Use 40 psi or less. Note: Do not use filters smaller than #70 or sand filters. Surface application: Apply one pint per row acre sprayed over seed bed. Grasses use one quart per acre. Mix with enough water to get even coverage. Under dry conditions use more water. Using with fertilizers make total solution 20% water and add “SELECT” when ready to apply. Use entire solution; do not store any remaining solution. Jar test before mixing with chemicals.

SELECT

Mycorrhizae Glomus intraradices.......................................50 spores/ml Glomus aggregatum......................................50 spores/ml Glomus mosseae ..........................................50 spores/ml Glomus etunicatum .......................................50 spores/ml

Seed-bed application: Bio-S.I.™ “SELECT” may be applied onto/over the seed. Use one pint per row acre mixed with enough water to get even coverage. Transplants may be treated prior to planting by soaking roots in premixed solution of one gallon “SELECT” to 10 gallons water. Root dip at one quart per 5 gallons of water.

0.06% Humic Acid (derived from leonardite)

Handling: Eye protection: goggles. Hands: Rubber gloves if cuts or abrasions on hands. Wash hands thoroughly after handling with soap/water. Storage: Protect containers from direct sunlight for long periods of time, freezing, and temps above 130 degrees. DO NOT MIX WITH FUNGICIDES OR PESTICIDES NON-PLANT FOOD. Not recommended as a fertilizer substitute.

Exp. Date:

SEED & SOIL INOCULANT

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

BENEFICIAL SOIL MICROBES & MYCORRHIZAE

Contents: 5 Gallon / 18.9L

biositechnology.com

R E BU ILD. R ESTO R E .

R E N E W.

Bio S.I.™ contains a broad and diverse spectrum of naturally occurring beneficial soil microbes. No laboratory engineered/modified microbes are used. Non-manure base.

Manufactured by Bio S.I. Technology, LLC P.O. Box 784 Argyle, Texas 76226

Caution: Follow label instructions. SHAKE WELL For use on crop land post-harvest to break down stubble left after harvest. Stubble (plant debris) from corn, wheat, beans, barley, cotton, rice, milo, beets, sugar cane, hops, grasses or any other plant that leaves significant amounts of plant debris can be treated to recycle nutrients. Application Preparation: Perform normal tillage (if any) to get stubble into contact with the soil. Minimum till to no till: apply over the stubble with minimum of 10 gallons of water per acre. If mold board plowing, apply SD 25 after tillage is complete. Application Rate: Rates may need to be adjusted according to your specific crop production and environment.

This product is to be used to break down stubble (plant debris) after harvest, not for crop production NON PLANT FOOD INGREDIENTS Guaranteed Anaylsis:

Bacillus licheniformis..............................6 million CFU/ml Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ......................4 million CFU/ml Sphingobacterium multivorum ................3 million CFU/ml Pseudomonas fluorescens......................2 million CFU/ml Bacillus subtilis ......................................2 million CFU/ml Bacillus pumilus.....................................2 million CFU/ml Streptomyces griseus..........................0.2 million CFU/ml Humic acid (derived from leonardite) ..................... 0.06% Humic acid is used as a carbon source for microbes.

Apply 20-25 oz. of SD 25 per acre with a minimum of 10 gallons of water per acre. For best results, supplement application with a 16-32 oz. of Bio S.I. Melaco (Carbs), 2-4 quarts of Bio S.I. Nutra Hume (Humic Acid) or Bio S.I. Fulvic Acid may be used in place of humic acid. The carbon to nitrogen ratio of plant debris needs to be taken into consideration. Usually 20-40 units of nitrogen will speed up digestion. Where nitrogen use is a concern; send in the residue sample for analysis of actual carbon to nitrogen ratio. This will determine the specific rate of nitrogen to balance the carbon to nitrogen ratio to achieve proper residue decomposition. A balanced carbon to nitrogen balance will accelerate the rate of degradation. Application Methods: Surface sprayer (ground rig), making sure tank has been properly cleaned prior to application of SD 25. If a fungicide has been used, clean with triple rinse or other cleaner to sterilize tank. SD 25 may be injected through pivot or any irrigation system calibrated to get even coverage. Use centrifugal or diaphragm pumps for best results. Do not use piston or roller pumps to apply this product. Surface Application: Apply at the rate listed above. Mix with a minimum of 10 gallons of water per acre. Under dry conditions use more water. SD 25 may be mixed with small amounts of fertilizer but use entire mixture. Use the entire mixture; do not store any remaining solution.

SD 25

NON PLANT FOOD

Irrigation Systems: Calibrate system to deliver at the desired application rate. Do not mix with other chemicals/fertilizers and store at pivot for injection over a long period of time. Use a separate container to inject Bio-S.I.™. Handling: Eye protection: goggles. Hands: rubber gloves if cuts or abrasions exist. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after handling. Storage: Protect from direct sunlight for long periods, freezing, and temps above 120 degrees. DO NOT MIX WITH FUNGICIDES OR PESTICIDES

Field Stubble Digester

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

BENEFICIAL MICROBES

Warranty: The manufacturer makes no warranty of any kind, expressed or implied, concerning the use of this product by the customer. Any claim is limited to the replacement of product or refund of cost of product.

Contents: 5 Gallon / 18.9L

biositechnology.com

NON-PATHOGENIC & NON TOXIC

ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE Exp. Date:

THREE-STEP PROGRAM Step 1: Bio S.I. Ag Formula is used pre-plant to distribute a broad spectrum of microbes over the entire field. This should be done about

Manufactured by Bio S.I. Technology, LLC P.O. Box 784 Argyle, Texas 76226

Above: Bio S.I. Technology’s trio of microbial products includes an “Agricultural Formula + Humic Acid Seed & Soil Inoculant,” the “Select Seed & Soil Inoculant” of beneficial soil microbes plus mycorrhiza, and “SD 25 Field Stubble Digester,” with all three formulas incorporating the beneficial soil microbes.

continued on pg. 34 BC�T June 33

Microbes: Workforce of the Soil . . . continued from pg. 33

Prior to SD 25 application two-to-three weeks prior to planting if possible. In-season applications can be made through the irrigation system or with spray rigs applying foliar fertilizers, adding 6 ounces per acre of Ag Formula per month. The dosage can be reduced to 3 ounces per acre if going over a field twice a month. This helps maintain a good diversity in the soil throughout the growing season. Should there be

34 BC�T June

45 days after treatment a lot of plant debris in the field, then use SD 25 to treat the debris. Do not incorporate into the soil. The microbes will seek their own level in the soil. Some like to live on the surface of the soil, while others work their way deep into the soil. It will reduce crusting, free tied-up nutrients and help compete with pathogens for space and food. Step 2: Apply Bio S.I. Ag Select

Above: Bio S.I. Wheat Stubble • Grower put back 100% of wheat stubble. • Soil was harrowed prior to treatment • Estimated roughly 1 ton of plant residue was returned to soil.

directly over the seed in the furrow. Ag Select has microbes plus beneficial mycorrhizae fungi in the solution. The microbes work together to protect the root from pathogens as soon as the seed opens.

A beneficial fungus in the rhizosphere (mycorrhiza) will usually stop a pathogenic fungus from coming into the rhizosphere. This protects against fungal diseases and helps by competitive exclusion.

RadiCoat Treatment 20 days after Planting

The pathogens don’t have the space or the food to grow due to the presence of good microbes occupying the space and taking up nutrients they need. If there is an outbreak of fungal infections, use the appropriate fungicide to gain control and then re-inoculate with the microbes. Depending on what the conditions are in a field, it might be necessary to increase or decrease the dosage accordingly.

Grower Standard 20 days after Planting

POST-HARVEST APPLICATION Step 3: SD 25 is used post-harvest to digest plant debris. This is nature’s way of recycling nutrients that have already been paid for once. Returning all the debris to the soil is beneficial in building the nutrient and carbon banks. Another important aspect of the microbial breakdown of debris is that the pathogens have lost a place to overwinter. Many pathogens depend on the plant debris to live throughout the winter months. As the microbes break down the plant debris, they convert it to humus, which enables carbon to hold onto nutrients and water. This activity helps reduce the places that pathogens can overwinter in fields. The humus fraction of the soil

is used by the microbes as a good place to live and grow. If at any point in the three-step program it becomes necessary to use a fungicide or pesticide, do so. Use the shortest-acting chemical that will do the job and then re-apply the microbes to establish the diversity back in the soil. Coming soon to the program is RadiCoat®, a new seed treatment that helps place microbes directly onto the seed along with other beneficial nutrients needed for better germination and uniform emergence. Incorporating this program into farming practices, a grower will witness the benefits in the first year.

May 2017

Badger er Common’Tat THE VOICE

OF WISCONSI

INDUSTRY & VEGETABLE N'S POTATO Volume 69

Issue Vegetables

Number 5

$18.00/year $1.50/copy

Badger Common’Tater

THE VOICE OF THE WISCONSIN POTATO & VEGETABLE INDUSTRY

ERS UNITE! POTATO GROW of SB 76 e Influence Passag EXPAND SHOULD YOU tion? Your Farm Opera YEAR 2016 A GREAT ction For Veggie Produ Y GROW ING CELER Act ing Is a Balanc manager for Doug Lee, farm Farms, sets Trembling Prairie rows. irrigate celery up drip tape to

INTERVIEW:

ka John ent,RuGuthzic Farm, Inc. Vice Presid

The changes in the soil and crop production are aided by adding the beneficial soil microbial products from Bio S.I. Technology. The enzymes and other substances they secrete into the soil bring back that good earthy smell (geosmin) that soils had when they were being plowed many years ago. Earthworms will come back into the soil, meaning the beneficial changes are encouraging other soil life as well. For more information on these products and others, contact T.I.P. (Tatro Irrigation & Potato) in Custer, Wisconsin, phone: 715 592 4650. Or contact Doug Traxel, Bio S.I. Technology national sales manager, doug@biositechnology.com, phone: 920 883 1865, or visit Bio S.I. Technology, LLC at www.biositechnology.com.

Subscribe Today!

Whether you are a grower, industry partner or simply enjoy rural life, sign up to receive this prestigious publication in print version, delivered direct to your mailbox for $18/year (12 issues). wisconsinpotatoes.com/blog-news/subscribe BC�T June 35

Badger Beat Are There Better Ways to Kill Fresh Market Potato Vines? A double application of a desiccant like diquat might not be the grower’s best or only choice By Jed Colquhoun, professor and Extension specialist, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Growing fresh market potatoes is in many ways like a sprint. We want the plants to emerge and grow fast out of the blocks but quit as soon as they hit the market finish line. A fast-growing crop requires careful nutrient management and healthy vines, but those same characteristics can make them hard to kill in time to hit the hot, early market. Additionally, a desirable crop has good skin set but this can be hard to achieve with vigorous plants that have not started to naturally senesce. The Farmers’ Almanac version of potato vine management would likely say that plants that are about 10 percent naturally senesced are much easier to kill and achieve more consistent skin set and stolon separation compared to less mature plants. So, with vigorous, healthy plants, how can we get them to that 10 percent breaking point that seems to 36 BC�T June

predispose them to an easier kill with common desiccants such as diquat? This has been a common conundrum among fresh market growers for several years, but the ante was upped more recently as diquat is going through the regularly-required pesticide registration review process at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). While the outcome of that long process is still unknown, the EPA’s preliminary assessment indicated that changes in diquat application rate, number and timing might be needed for environmental protection. VINE KILL OPTIONS With all this in mind, and with the support of the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association

Above: Dark red Norland vine management is shown at harvest after potato plants were flailchopped and then flame-burned six days later.

and U.S. Department of Agriculture Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, we investigated opportunities to enhance fresh market vine kill and reduce the reliance on diquat by integrating non-chemical methods into the program. The research was conducted at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station in 2015 and 2016 with Yukon gold and dark red Norland varieties. This work wouldn’t be possible without the efforts of graduate student Matt Lemke and researchers Rich Rittmeyer and Dan Heider. We looked at predisposing healthy potato plants to a variety of vine management methods used alone or followed by a diquat application. Each of these methods has been utilized in other growing regions and at various times in our production history: • Vine rolling consists of a mechanical roller that flattens the potato vines almost parallel to the soil surface and crushes the potato canopy, at least temporarily. T his strategy was a popular research topic as late as the 1980’s, well after chemical vine desiccants were introduced in the late 1940’s. When followed soon after by a vine

desiccant application, this strategy can improve spray coverage and subsequent kill. • Flail mowing or shredding, also called roto-beating in some areas, mechanically rips leaves from stems, but often leaves green stems attached to stolons that can regrow and host plant pathogens. Flail mowing kills vines faster than rolling but slower than vine pulling. The cut vine pieces are distributed quite uniformly across the field. This method is fairly fuel and labor intensive, as machines tend to be narrow and travel slowly. In some production regions, growers use this method to remove the top third of the potato plant, with the idea that it initiates natural senescence and enhances coverage with the contact herbicides commonly used as desiccants. • Flaming potato vines with propanepowered burners has produced

mixed results in both research and practice. Regardless, the price of fuel and labor intensity has prohibited large scale use.

Above: UW-Madison professor and Extension specialist Jed Colquhoun addresses attendees at the Langlade County Agricultural Research Station Field Day, July 21, 2016.

• Mechanical vine killing used alone has not been consistently successful in most production regions, thus the widespread adoption of vine desiccants. Additionally, mechanical

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strategies often leave behind green potato plant tissue that requires careful attention and management for plant diseases. continued on pg. 38

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Badger Beat . . . continued from pg. 37

So, what did we find in our research? Given that we’re in the midst of the busy growing season, we’ll hit a few highlights here and offer more indepth results at the upcoming grower meetings: • Across both varieties and years, potato stem management was 50 percent or less eight days prior to harvest when vines were chopped or rolled six days earlier. This indicates that a single flail chopping or rolling won’t cut it, but when these mechanical methods were followed by a single diquat application the results were similar to where diquat was applied twice. • Potato leaf and stem management when a single flail chop was followed by flame burning were similar to the industry standard of two diquat applications, providing a potential vine management option

for organic and small-scale potato farmers. • In both varieties and years, tuber skinning was greater where the roller-crimper was used 14 days prior to harvest compared to the diquat standard. This is likely because the roller-crimper flattens but doesn’t kill vines, leaving much green tissue behind and some regrowth. Keep in mind that the green tissue can still present disease issues. • In 2016, dark red Norland cull yield was three to five times greater in treatments initiated with the flail chopper or roller crimper compared to all other treatments and can be attributed to tuber greening when exposed hills received heavy rainfall. • Across varieties and years, there wasn’t a consistent relationship

between vine management programs and total marketable tuber yield. This isn’t a negative observation, but, in fact, suggests that we might be able to integrate some of these mechanical methods when necessary without compromising marketable yield. Of course, the economic feasibility of these more intense methods would need to be considered relative to the first-tomarket strength. Our vine management research program also continues to search for potential new herbicide desiccants as they come along. Moving forward, we hope to be able to provide growers with a full toolbox of options to manage vines, reduce disease risk and produce a high-quality marketable crop.

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For a directory of Wisconsin Certified Seed Potato Growers or a free video, contact:

WISCONSIN CERTIFIED SEED POTATOES 38 BC�T June

Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association, Inc. P.O. Box 173, Antigo, WI 54409 715-623-4039 www.potatoseed.org

View a directory of the Wisconsin Certified Seed Potato Growers on your smartphone.

Friday, June 23, 2017 Bass Lake Country Club W10650 Bass Lake Road Deerbrook, WI 54424 Since 1998, this tournament raised over $50,000, which was donated to Wisconsin potato research.

Formerly tony Gallenberg memorial Golf tournament

2017 Sponsorships Available:

Dinner sponsor $2,000

• Company name and logo on three 12-foot banners placed in prominent areas including dinner area • Company name and logo in Badger Common'Tater • Verbal recognition and name on sign at event • Registration and dinner for four golfers

GoLD rusH sponsor $1,500 • Company name and logo on two 12-foot banners placed in prominent areas on the course • Company name and logo in Badger Common'Tater • Verbal recognition and name on sign at event • Registration and dinner for two golfers

siLVerton sponsor $1,000 Bushman’s Riverside Ranch

superior sponsor $500

• Company name and logo on one 8-foot banner placed in a prominent area on the course • Company name and logo in Badger Common'Tater • Verbal recognition and name on sign at event

oCCupieD HoLe sponsor $300 • Company name on hole sign • Rights to occupy a hole on the course and provide giveaways* *If alcohol is being served, it must be purchased through the golf course • Verbal recognition and name on sign at event

BasiC HoLe sponsor $200 • Company name on hole sign • Verbal recognition and name on sign at event

• Company name and logo in Badger Common'Tater • Verbal recognition and name & logo on signage at event • Registration and dinner for one golfer

ContaCt Karen rasmussen for more details (715) 623-7683

maiL payment to: WSPIA, P.O. Box 173, Antigo, WI 54409 Make checks payable to Wspia. BC�T June 39

People Crockford and Gevens Honored with CALS Awards Two from Department of Plant Pathology recognized for groundbreaking work Alex Crockford and Amanda Gevens were honored May 3, 2017, during the annual College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) Awards Program held in the Ebling Symposium Center at the University of WisconsinMadison. Crockford, a UW-Madison plant pathologist and director of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program, received the “Academic Staff Award for Excellence in Service.” Nominated by university staff, faculty or students, the Award for Excellence in Service is extended to those who go above and beyond the scope of their duties and demonstrate outstanding sustained service and dedication to their individual units. The nominees may include individuals who serve on college 40 BC�T June

or university committees, conduct outreach or provide community service. Any or all of the following criteria are considered in the review of nominations: • Excellence of Performance • Personal Interaction • Initiative and Creativity • Outstanding Achievement All full-time and part-time academic staff are eligible for the award, regardless of title, funding support, appointment contract or unit affiliation. The person being recognized must have been employed for more than a year and have a portion of their budget support administered by CALS. POUND EXTENSION AWARD Gevens, UW-Madison associate professor and Extension vegetable

Above: University of Wisconsin College of Agricultural & Life Sciences (CALS) Dean Kate VandenBosch (center) poses with Amanda Gevens (left) and Alex Crockford (right), recipients of 2017 CALS Awards. Photo courtesy of Sevie Kenyon, CALS

crops plant pathology specialist, received the “2017 Pound Extension Award” for her research and work related to disease management in potato and vegetable crops. The primary focus of her work is late blight of potato and tomato, which reappeared in crops in 2009 after a six-year hiatus, and just weeks after Gevens’ arrival at UW-Madison. Although new to her role at the time, Gevens provided leadership and responsiveness while working with growers, crop consultants, colleagues and regulatory officials to help them better understand the disease and

successfully convey the concept that late blight is a community disease that is everyone’s responsibility to manage. Recent research conducted by Gevens at the request of potato growers was to test potato storage treatments that were being marketed aggressively by their manufacturers with no data to support their efficacy. Her “first of its kind” research on storage treatments has the potential to save the potato industry millions of dollars a year, according to one nominator and potato grower. Gevens’ programs are accessible to growers of all sizes and scopes. She and her county agent colleagues have worked with Amish farmers to encourage them to adopt a proactive, biology-based approach to crop management. Gevens has also engaged Latino communities by providing Spanish translations of crop management newsletters.

to issues,” said Jed Colquhoun, interim associate dean of Extension and Outreach, and UW-Extension program co-director. “This award recognizes her dedication, energy and quality of service to the state.” The Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association extends its congratulations to Gevens and Crockford. Following is a full list of CALS Awards Program honorees: 2017 Award Recipients Academic Staff Award for Excellence in Leadership —Laura Ward Good Academic Staff Award for Excellence in Research—Rani Govindasamy-Lucey Academic Staff Award for Excellence in Service —Alex Crockford Arthur J. Maurer Extra Mile Award—Michel A. Wattiaux

Equity and Diversity Award —Molly Reinhard Excellence in International Activities Award—Guilherme J. M. Rosa J.S. Donald Short Course Teaching Award—Francisco J. Arriaga Pound Extension Award —Amanda Gevens Pound Research Award —Zach Peery Robert G.F. and Hazel T. Spitze Land Grant Faculty Award for Excellence—Susan M. Paskewitz Spitzer Excellence in Teaching Award—Troy M. Runge WALSAA Outstanding Advisor Award—Molly Reinhard University Staff Recognition Award—Lynn Martinsen University Staff Recognition Award—Catherine Rook University Staff Recognition Award—Laura Trumble

RECOGNIZED BEYOND STATE “While Wisconsin’s potato and vegetable growers greatly appreciate Amanda’s work, her programming is recognized beyond the borders of the state,” said Patricia McManus, Chair, UW-Madison Department of Plant Pathology and UW-Extension fruit pathology specialist. “Extension pathologists in other states value Amanda’s applied research when making recommendations in their regions and Amanda is in demand nationally as a reviewer and editor.” McManus said, “In the past sevenand-a-half years, Amanda has attracted more than $3.5 million in grants and gifts from the federal and state levels to support her Extension programs and research.” “Amanda is greatly respected and valued by her Extension colleagues and industry for her work in helping to develop practical solutions

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New Products Kiremko Releases High-Speed Potato Peeler with steam that comes in contact evenly with the whole surface of the potato How fast, thin and long can you peel a potato? Kiremko, a Dutch company fully dedicated to equipment for the potato processing industry, says it has the answers and promises that no other machine on the market today can beat the STRATA Invicta®. Kiremko claims, compared to other steam peeling solutions, the highspeed STRATA Invicta® increases output up to 5.9 percent. The secret is a combination of advanced steam peeling techniques to achieve shorter peeling times and an extremely short cycle with quick-filling steam exhaust. This way operators can process the most potatoes per hour at the highest possible yields. Due to the unique shape of the vessel, the steam comes in even contact with the whole surface of the potato. The large diameter inlet door allows high-capacity processing for large- or small-sized potatoes and in large batches. Speed and accuracy combine with reliability to make the Kiremko STRATA Invicta a viable solution

that is tried and tested extensively in a real production environment to ensure it meets the company’s highest standards. The STRATA Invicta is easy to operate and boasts low maintenance and operating costs. Kiremko says you can count on the STRATA Invicta to feed your production line, no matter how

challenging the targets are! The STRATA Invicta is available in Expedience, Endurance or Infinity editions. Kiremko Food Processing Equipment is a global supplier of complete potato processing lines and stand-alone equipment such as peelers, blanchers, dryers and fryers. For more information, visit http://www.kiremko.com/en_US or email kiremko@kiremko.com.

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Onset Offers HOBO Data Loggers for Field Use USB Micro Station with weatherproof housing monitors microclimates and the harsh outdoors Onset, a world leader in data loggers and weather stations, announces a range of solutions that enhance the ease, flexibility and reliability of monitoring microclimates, from indoor greenhouses to the harshest outdoor field environments. The HOBO MX2300 Series temperature and relative humidity (RH) data loggers use Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) that enables users to easily offload data to their mobile devices. The HOBO USB Micro Station data logger features five inputs that accept a wide range of Onset’s plug-and-play smart sensors for environmental monitoring, plus a USB port for fast data readout.

Both the HOBO MX2300 Series and HOBO USB Micro Station combine research-grade performance with compact, weatherproof enclosures. Together, they provide users with a range of choices for microclimate monitoring in a variety of applications—from field use and research in agriculture, forestry and ecology, to viticulture and greenhouse cultivation. “For 35 years, we have been dedicated to providing customers with data loggers and monitoring solutions that meet the highest industry standards for accuracy, reliability and performance,” says Paul Gannett, senior product marketing manager for Onset.

“We are extending this commitment with our HOBO MX2300 Series and HOBO USB Micro Station, which bring a new level of flexibility and ease-ofuse to microclimate monitoring and continued on pg. 44

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New Products . . . continued from pg. 43

data collection,” Gannett relays. “Now users in agriculture and environmental studies can focus on obtaining the insights they need, instead of worrying about configuring their data collection systems,” he reasons. ACCURATE TEMP READINGS HOBO MX2300 Series loggers dramatically cut the time and effort needed to collect field data. Bluetooth technology allows growers and others to wirelessly access highaccuracy temperature and humidity readings right from their mobile phones or tablets, eliminating the need to take a laptop or data shuttle into the field to retrieve data. A 100-foot wireless range makes it easy to offload data in hard-to-reach locations. The loggers work with

Onset’s free HOBOmobile app for easy logger setup and configuration and effective data management while in the field. From their mobile phones or tablets, users can view data in graphs, check the operational status of loggers, share data files or graph images and store data in the cloud. There are no cables to deal with, and no devices to pair. HOBO MX2300 Series loggers are available in five models spanning a range of outdoor temperature and RH monitoring applications. The series includes internal sensor models that are highly durable and easy to deploy, and external probe models for faster response times and that are wellsuited for monitoring conditions in soils, water and more.

Each logger features a compact, rugged weatherproof housing designed for long-term studies and 0.2C accuracy, ensuring that users get reliable measurements. Wireless communication means the loggers can be deployed entirely inside a solar radiation shield for high reliability, while still enabling users to offload data using their mobile devices. The HOBO USB Micro Station is a research-grade, multi-channel data logging weather station that comes in a compact size for simple deployment. The logger’s hinged door makes it easy to plug in sensors, and mounting tabs make it easy to mount the logger using zip ties, screws or U-bolts. With the USB Micro Station,

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The weatherproof battery-powered station combines the flexibility and sensor quality of more expensive systems with the convenience of plug-and-play operation. It features five inputs that accept Onset’s full range of plug-and-play Smart Sensors for environmental monitoring, such as temperature, soil moisture, rainfall and wind.

Additional pricing details and technical specifications for both the HOBO MX2300 Series and HOBO USB Micro Station Data Logger are available at http://www.onsetcomp.com. continued on pg. 46

Users can simply plug in any of the Smart Sensors and begin monitoring weather parameters without having to spend time on complicated wiring or programming. The HOBO USB Micro Station is equipped with a built-in USB port to enable fast, efficient readout of data to a computer. To configure the Micro Station or offload data, researchers can use Onset’s HOBOware software, which also allows users to view, graph and analyze data with point-and-click simplicity. Both the HOBO MX2300 Series and the HOBO USB Micro Station Data Logger are available today. The HOBO MX2300 Series includes five models with prices ranging from $110 to $199. The HOBOmobile app for the loggers is available as a free download for Apple iOS at the Apple iTunes store. The HOBO USB Micro Station is priced at $220. The accompanying HOBOware software is available for computers running either Microsoft Windows or Apple OS, and it can be downloaded for free at http://www. onsetcomp.com/hoboware-freedownload.

About Onset Onset is a leading supplier of data loggers and monitoring solutions used to measure, record and manage data for improving the environment and preserving the quality of temperature-sensitive products. Based on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Onset has been designing and manufacturing its products onsite since the company’s founding in 1981. Visit Onset on the web at http://www. onsetcomp.com.

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New Products . . . continued from pg. 45

John Deere Introduces 5R Series Tractors and new 540R Loader that can be removed or installed on 5R’s in single trips out of cabs John Deere introduces its new 5R Series Tractors that leverage existing technologies normally found in large tractors to provide customers with unrivaled maneuverability, an easy-to-use transmission, increased visibility, loader integration and operator comfort. A 7.4-foot wheelbase paired with a 60-degree steering angle provides a tight turning radius of 12.1 feet. Customers working in confined areas such as barns will be able to easily maneuver, increasing their productivity. Shifting is virtually effortless with two fully electronic transmission options, CommandQuadTM Manual and Command8TM. Using a multirange selection, the operator can toggle from B range through D range without stopping. “Base equipment also includes AutoClutchTM, leveraged from our

larger row-crop tractors. That means no clutching is necessary, ever. Step on the brake and the clutch automatically disengages,” says Chris Lammie, global product line planner for John Deere.

to a John Deere 5M Tractor with the Premium Cab. Forward visibility is 7 percent better thanks to a singlepiece front windshield, making it ideal for loader applications.

Upward visibility has been improved 80 percent through the Premium Panorama cab roof compared

Six halogen work lights (two front, two rear and two side) are included as standard equipment to shine brightly and improve visibility in low-light conditions. For maximum illumination, owners can choose to replace the halogen lights with optional factory- or field-installed LED lights.

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An interactive display located in the right-hand corner post is placed out of the line of sight from the operator. “Tractor operations can be customized by the operator to best fit their preferences,” says Lammie. A high-back swivel seat features thicker cushions and wider armrests than those found on John Deere 5M Tractors. Options normally found in larger John Deere row-crop tractors also are now available for the 5R. New to the utility tractor lineup, optional cab suspension provides a more comfortable ride for long work days. 46 BC�T June

The 5R can be equipped with the new John Deere 540R Loader. The loader’s automatic mast latch, singlepoint hydraulic connection, remote implement latch and slide-slung selfleveling links provide an integrated loader experience for the 5R Tractor operator. Removal or installation of the loader can be accomplished with a single trip out of the cab, thanks to a latch system that automatically connects the loader once contact is made between the loader boom and mounting frames, simplifying the connection process. To improve loader operation, a mechanical or electrohydraulic loader joystick option is integrated into the swivel seat. Gear-shift buttons and a joystick reverser are built into the loader joystick control. “Its simple

one-handed operation lets you control loader, speed and direction, all without letting go of the joystick,” Lammie says.

For more information about the 5R Tractor and 540R Loader, contact your local John Deere dealer or visit www.JohnDeere.com/ag.

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Think INSIDE the Box Could storing potatoes in boxes maximize storage space, and crop quality and condition? yield in line with demand.

experienced interest from growers in the merits of box storage, and the gentle box handling equipment that makes the whole process more efficient.

Tong Engineering, leading United Kingdom potato and vegetable handling equipment manufacturer, exports its wide range of advanced systems worldwide. The company manufactures a range of marketleading box handling equipment as well as advanced potato bulk loading, cleaning and grading equipment for effective handling of crop prior to storage.

According to Charlie Rich, export sales manager for Tong Engineering, the company is now working with several U.S. growers to integrate specialized box handling equipment into their current potato handling operations. He says the practice will bring added value and better stock control for those willing to embrace the benefits and shift their current storage practices.

At the 2017 Potato Expo in San Francisco this January, there was talk about the benefits of storing potatoes in boxes as an alternative to the more widespread U.S. approach of bulk storage.

“In the United States, box storage is a much less common storage technique than bulk crop storage,” Charlie explains. “This is quite opposite of the way potatoes are commonly stored in the U.K. and Europe, and there are some very strong reasons why box storage not only makes

By Joe Kertzman, managing editor, Badger Common’Tater, and Carole Metcalfe, marketing manager for Tong Engineering Ltd. With today’s increasingly competitive international marketplace, potato growers and processors are continuously looking at more efficient and progressive produce handling techniques that increase crop yield and value. Supplying high-quality potatoes that have been harvested and handled gently, are of a consistent size and shape, and offer a good shelf life requires significant care and attention throughout the potato handling process. In the fresh produce industry, prices are dictated by the amount and quality of supply, and therefore effective potato storage practices are vital to maximize returns on crop 48 BC�T June

Above: When potatoes are stored in boxes, airflow between the boxes is achieved easily and effectively, allowing growers to maintain good control of crop temperature, as well as humidity. Storage height is also maximized, as quality boxes can be stacked up to seven or eight high.

While attending the event, Tong

potato storage more efficient, but also helps to add value to the stored crop.” CLIMATE CONTROL One of the key differences in box storage over bulk storage, according to Charlie, is the noticeable increase in control that storing in boxes brings to growers. One very important element of control lies in the ability to maintain the correct climate conditions. “When crop is stored in boxes, airflow between the boxes is achieved very easily and effectively, allowing growers to have much better control of crop temperature, as well as humidity,” Charlie says. With increased control of storage variables, box storage ensures postharvest crop condition is maintained and pressure damage and bruising is eliminated, significantly prolonging the potato storage period. “To give an idea of how much longer growers can potentially store their potatoes, when storing in 2,200-pound boxes, they can store potatoes for three to four months longer,” highlights Charlie. “This in itself is a very powerful reason for storing produce in boxes.” Another noticeable benefit of box storage is that it significantly reduces the chances of crop contamination by allowing any box of potatoes to be removed from the store at any given time if the need arises. “When potatoes are stored in bulk, should any of the crop deteriorate due to disease or rot, it can be very difficult to determine the problem in the first place and then, more importantly, remove the affected crop without too much contamination of other potatoes in the store,” Charlie explains. “In contrast, when potatoes are stored in boxes, any affected crop

can be removed one box at a time, meaning contamination is much less likely and much less widespread,” he adds.

quicker to customer demand. “Stock control is so much more efficient when crop is stored in boxes,” he reasons. “If harvested potatoes are loaded into an Evenflow hopper and grading system coupled with gentle box filling equipment, the graded spuds can then be loaded straight into boxes ready for shipping or processing.”

STORE BY VARIETY OR SIZE When storing potatoes in boxes, it is relatively easy and efficient to store them by variety and/or size. Charlie insists this dramatically improves stock control capabilities while offering the ability to respond much

N V S

continued on pg. 50

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Think Inside the Box . . . continued from pg. 49

“Boxes can be clearly marked and stored based on their content, whether by grade, variety or both, allowing growers to have a much better and more specific record of stock for improved batch control,” he adds. Another practical benefit of box storage is the ability to better utilize storage space. “Storage height is maximized when storing in boxes as they can be stacked up to seven or eight boxes high,” Charlie explains. “This level of space utilization cannot be achieved when bulk storing, and the ability to essentially store more potatoes, alongside the potential to store crop for longer, can give growers practicing box storage methods a very noticeable competitive advantage,” he adds. GENTLER SPUD HANDLING Charlie stresses that, overall, box storage involves much gentler potato handling practices than bulk storage. 50 BC�T June

By simply handling crop more gently, yield, quality and ultimately value of crop is naturally improved. Advanced box handling equipment used alongside effective crop cleaning and grading systems ensures only high-value, high-quality, clean and sorted potatoes are stored. Charlie says, when looking at these benefits of box storage, the usual question on most potato growers’ lips is, “What equipment investments are needed for a successful and sustainable shift to the box storage technique?”

Above: If harvested potatoes are loaded into an Evenflow hopper and grading system coupled with gentle box filling equipment, the graded spuds can then be loaded straight into boxes ready for shipping or processing.

sizing systems that offer more efficient grading of different potato varieties, maximizing the potential of box storage even further. BOX FILLER A FIRST STEP

“The answer,” he remarks, “is looking first at equipment that will ensure a grower can fill, and subsequently empty, the boxes gently.”

“We manufacture potato handling equipment, from heavy-duty bulk infeed hoppers for dirty crop through to gentle box tippers and large-scale potato washing and polishing lines,” Charlie explains. “But the Tong EasyFill box filler is a popular first step in shifting to the box storage method.”

Then as budget facilitates, growers can look towards more advanced and gentle potato handling systems, including high-capacity Evenflow hoppers, efficient dirt eliminating and separating equipment, and accurate

“As a twin-head box filler, the EasyFill is capable of fast and gentle box filling at high capacity. And, although the machine works very fast, it is exceptionally gentle on potatoes, being fitted with a unique ‘doorstop’

belt that features rubber ‘fingers’ instead of conventional belt flights,” he says. “These fingers cradle the crop until it reaches the box, where it is transferred with no drops,” Charlie adds. “There are many efficiencies to be had from storing potatoes in boxes— those listed, but also efficiencies in the handling process,” he says. “When using the right equipment, it is a much more productive way of storing crop.” “One question I am often asked is whether the investment in boxes and box handling equipment is worthwhile for the benefits that box storage will bring,” Charlie says. “My answer is always that, by adopting this more advanced and forward-thinking technique for potato storage, the return on investment and efficiencies will be very clear from day one,” he concludes, “and for many years to come.” For more information on Tong's range of box handling equipment,

visit www.tongengineering.com, or contact Carole Metcalfe, phone 01790 752771, or email carole@ tongengineering.com.

Above: The Tong EasyFill box filler is a popular first step in shifting to the box storage method. As a twin-head box filler, it is capable of fast and gentle box filling at high capacity.

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POTATOES USA NEWS

Potatoes USA Holds Exchange Mission in Cuba

Potatoes USA organized an informational exchange mission to Cuba, March 27-31, 2017, comprised of 16 board members, seed potato growers and agronomists, to explore the potential role for U.S. potatoes in the country. The Potatoes USA team met with officials from the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Commercial Affairs and Ministry of Agriculture before heading into the countryside to visit potato production areas. The delegation viewed harvests at two different cooperatives in the Matanzas and Cienfuegos areas. Despite the many challenges facing the Cuban growers—lack of inputs (fertilizer, pesticides and herbicides), minimal mechanization, and poor soil and climatic conditions—they were harvesting a good crop of large white potatoes. Potatoes are one of the eight foods controlled by the Cuban government for distribution and price. The Cuban government tries to provide 15 pounds of potatoes per person per month at a subsidized price for the three-month period or less of potato supplies.

POTATO PRODUCTION REVIVAL Potato production in Cuba has declined dramatically in the last 20 years, but the Cuban government is making efforts to revive it, including increasing the import of high-quality seed potatoes. The growers and Ministry of Agriculture officials are very interested in trialing U.S. seed potatoes to see how they perform in their tropical climate. Based on successes in the Dominican Republic and Central America, Potatoes USA and U.S. seed potato growers are confident domestic suppliers can provide potato seed to help improve yields in Cuba. Future progress would include the completion of the import protocol by

Above: A 16-member delegation of seed potato growers and agronomists participated in an informational exchange mission to Cuba where they met with the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Commercial Affairs and Ministry of Agriculture. They also traveled to the countryside and potato production areas, viewed harvests at two cooperatives and discussed trialing U.S. seed potatoes to see how they perform in Cuba’s tropical climate.

the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Cuban Ministry of Agriculture for U.S. seed potatoes to enter Cuba. Ideally, U.S. seed potatoes will be included in the Ministry of Agriculture trial runs in the fall of 2017. Further information exchanges can occur with the Cuban potato industry through their representatives visiting U.S. seed potato growing regions.

“More Ways to Win” Ad Campaign Launched In March 2017, Potatoes USA launched the “More Ways to Win” retail advertising campaign. The goal of the campaign is to excite retailers about the significant opportunity that exists within the potato category to help drive sales and increase their bottom lines. The More Ways to Win campaign, targeting retailers, produce decision makers and key influencers in the retail industry, delivers key education to improve the grocery-buying 52 BC�T June

process. With a goal of inspiring and educating retailers, Potatoes USA developed free self-guided video training modules as an online education tool for retailers and their teams. This valuable resource covers areas such as type and variety education, nutrition, how to store and handle potatoes and information on how they are grown. Upon completion of the training

modules, users will receive a downloadable certificate from Potatoes USA to celebrate the completion of their training. You can expect to find the More Ways to Win campaign featured in retailspecific print publications, digital banner placements and eBlasts. To learn more about the U.S. fresh potato training program, visit www.usfreshpotatotraining.com/ welcome. Registration is free!

Auxiliary News By Ali Carter, Vice President, WPGA

This is an especially busy season for the Wisconsin

Potato Growers Auxiliary, and I would be remiss if I didn’t start this article by offering a sincere thank you to all the volunteers who rally together to ensure that each event is successful. Throughout the spring months, Auxiliary members attended trade shows, traveled with the Spudmobile, joined forces with

the WPVGA Associate Division to offer scholarships to students of WPVGA members, partnered with the WPVGA Promotions Committee on community relations and on highlighting the industry to consumers, and organized and implemented new industry networking events. We have seen another year of solid sales of our cookbooks, baked

Current Page: Members of the Wisconsin Potato Growers Auxiliary enjoy “Spa Night,” which includes gifts and drawings as part of the networking fun.

potatoes and Wisconsin French fries at the 57th annual WPS Farm Show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. We have welcomed new Auxiliary members and strengthened connections during the Ladies Night Out events in both Stevens Point and Antigo, as well as at the Sip and Sample event and the Spa Night. SPUD SCHOOLING As a group, the Auxiliary has spread the word about Wisconsin potatoes to schools and children throughout the state while hosting Harvest Parties and tours of the Spudmobile, and has implemented yet another year of “Kids Dig Wisconsin Potatoes,” with over 90 schools signing up for the program. This month finds us focused on intense planning for the Wisconsin State Fair, which is scheduled for continued on pg. 54 BC�T June 53

Auxiliary News. . . continued from pg. 53

August 3-13. Committees and members are organizing their teams, while supplies and potatoes are being sourced and logistics are being worked out in anticipation of another wonderful year at the fair! Our upcoming annual meeting and Auxiliary Banquet, June 29, has held our attention these past months, as final preparations and decisions were made. We look forward to making plans for the upcoming fiscal year and gathering to celebrate the accomplishments of the year gone by. June also ushers in our largest

philanthropic community outreach, as the Feed My Starving Children MobilePack event nears. On June 17, we will welcome about 350 volunteers to the Noel Hangar in Stevens Point to pack potato-based meals for hungry children. It is our seventh year for this potato industry-supported and funded event, and it is always a special way to demonstrate to the community the giving nature of our growers, members and industry. To register for or donate to the Wisconsin potato MobilePack event, please visit: https://give.fmsc.

Above: The baked potato and French fry booth at the WPS Farm Show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, is a fun annual fundraiser put on by the Auxiliary and sponsored by McCain, which provides potatoes and fries for the booth. As WPVGA Executive Assistant Julie Braun works the register for a long line of customers, a team behind the booth waits to prepare and serve the spuds and fries, including, from left to right, Auxiliary member Jody Baginski (in yellow shirt with back turned), Cliff Gagas of Gagas Farms, Auxiliary member Carole Gagas and WPVGA Financial Officer Karen Rasmussen. Josie Spurgeon of the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program does her best to hide behind Rasmussen at far right.

org/stevens-point/events/1706080wau-stevens-point-wi-wi-potatomobilepack/e118143.

WPIB Focus Wisconsin Potato Assessment Collections: Two-Year Comparison Month

Jul-15

Aug-15

Sep-15

Oct-15

Nov-15

Dec-15

Jan-16

Feb-16

Mar-16

Apr-16

May-16

Jun-16

Year-to-Date

CWT

1,679,466.61

553,089.04

813,734.14

2,731,844.59

3,574,243.15

2,242,764.68

2,598,955.03

2,196,655.93

2,183,506.81

2,518,493.48

21,092,753.46

Assessment

$100,717.55

$33,240.32

$48,851.85

$163,910.77

$214,454.02

$134,565.79

$155,926.56

$131,803.69

$130,977.86

$150,127.66

$1,264,576.07

Aug-16

Sep-16

Oct-16

Nov-16

Dec-16

Jan-17

Feb-17

Mar-17

Apr-17

Month

Jul-16

May-17

Jun-17

Year-to-Date

CWT

1,596,377.06

706,549.40

1,283,527.92

2,874,985.48

3,531,201.37

1,995,664.44

3,035,619.25

2,285,371.71

2,515,966.21

2,349,690.78

22,174,953.62

Assessment

$96,214.65

$46,392.12

$87,862.17

$200,067.53

$246,554.05

$139,662.51

$212,457.84

$160,044.60

$175,977.76

$164,565.93

$1,529,799.16

54 BCďż˝T June

EYES ON ASSOCIATES By WPVGA Associate Div. President, Sally Suprise, Ansay & Associates

Hello everyone. Where

does the time go? It’s difficult to believe that planting is finished or nearly complete throughout the state, and that we’re working on the “Harvest and Specialty Vehicles/ Tractors”-themed issue of the Badger Common’Tater. I always enjoy reading the magazine and following the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) website (www. wisconsinpotatoes.com). The term “sustainability” has powerful meaning:

employees. We all know that farming is a dangerous industry and I encourage you all to take advantage of programs that are available for farm safety education.

Above: President of the Associate Division, Sally Suprise of Ansay & Associates is proud to be a member of the WPVGA and its “sustainability” message, which, in part, reads, “Our producers aren’t just farmers. They’re stewards of the environment who practice the highest sustainable conservation practices.”

At the April Associate Division Board of Directors meeting, we reviewed and discussed all 2017 WPVGA Associate Division grant proposals. I am pleased to say that the Associate Division funded over $12,000 for projects submitted by the following:

to be held Wednesday, July 12, at Lake Arrowhead Golf Course in Nekoosa. Don’t forget to register for this annual fun-filled event!

I read this on the website last week and it represents our Wisconsin farmers very true to form. A huge thank you to all growers and Associate Division members for your passion and support of such a great industry!

• Hancock Agricultural Research Station - Felix Navarro • Rhinelander Ag Research Station - Becky Eddy / Wisconsin Potato Breeding Program - Jeff Endelman • Langlade County Research Station - Steve Zimmerman • Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program - Alex Crockford • Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association - Bill Guenthner / Tamas Houlihan • UW-Lelah Starks Foundation - Keith Heinzen

With the season underway, I would like to remind everyone to take time for annual safety meetings with

Another topic of discussion is our upcoming 2017 WPVGA Associate Division Putt-Tato Open golf outing

“Our growers put the attainability in sustainability,” the website reads. “Our producers aren’t just farmers, they are stewards of the environment who practice the highest sustainable conservation practices.”

We have another year of great raffle prizes, including an autographed Joe Pavelski jersey, Yeti/Cabela's cooler, Earth Sense Wood Pellet Grill, Trek Bike, guns and more! Become a sponsor for one of these gifts to promote your business and organization and at the same time help to make our event a great success. That's all for now. Here’s wishing you all a safe and productive growing season.

Sally Suprise

WPVGA Associate Division President

SUPPORT YOUR FELLOW WPVGA MEMBERS When you need goods or services, please consider asking our Associate Division Members for quotes or explore what they have to offer. Together, we make a strong organization and appreciate how wonderful we are as a group. BC�T June 55

How to Protect Yourself Against Identity Theft This how-to guide discusses theft detection, protection and mitigation By Randall Romes, principal, Clifton Larson Allen, Minneapolis

One American falls victim to identity theft

every two seconds. Although awareness and vigilance for identity theft have increased over the years, instances of the crimes continue to rise. Unfortunately, many victims do not realize a crime has taken place until months later, thus why it’s important to know how to protect yourself, detect a breach and mitigate the damage. Don’t fall for tax scams. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) doesn’t initiate contact with taxpayers by email, text messages or social media channels to request personal or financial information. View the IRS’s website about the latest scams targeting taxpayers. Regarding fraud protection, the first thing to do to protect your personal information from being stolen is to be aware of the primary ways criminals obtain it. They often obtain personal

data from the following sources: • Lost or stolen wallet, checkbook or credit card • Stolen mail • Dumpster diving • Online transactions • Skimming (obtaining debit/ATM card information by using a device attached to an ATM machine that stores the card number and pin) • Phishing (fraudulent communications, such as email,

Seeking an Agronomist Plan and oversee growing potatoes and vegetable crops (conventional and organic) on our 3,500-acre potato and vegetable farm. Responsibilities will include working directly with farm managers and other personnel on analyzing and evaluating crop performance, supervising fieldwork (scouting, testing, monitoring, and data integrity) of all fields, collecting plant and soil samples, and maintaining applicable fertilizer and chemical application records. The Agronomist will plan and oversee crop rotations, introduce new varieties, and communicate benchmarks and advancements in agricultural practices and technology. This individual will need to plan and react to problem areas in crops with great knowledge and care. He/she will need to have a cohesion of passion and ambition for achieving the best, naturally be good at critical thinking and problem solving, and will need strong organization and communication skills. Must have a four-year college degree in Agronomy or Soil Science. Salary is competitive with knowledge and skillset. 5 Years experience preferred.

Jeanne McCain • Plover River Farms Alliance Farms, Inc. 292 Maple Bluff Road, Stevens Point, WI 54482

Plover River Farms Alliance Farms, Inc. 56 BC�T June

mail, text, phone, etc., in which scammers pose as financial institutions, government agencies or other trusted entities to steal personal information) The best way to protect yourself is to be extremely cautious with your personal information. While this will be a constant chore, there are some habits you can develop. Refer to Clifton Larson Allen’s guide, on page 57, which applies to both paper and electronic records. Always be skeptical about to whom and how you provide personal information. Never enter personal information into a link provided in an email. Do not provide information to a representative that contacts you directly. Rather, hang up and call the number provided on your latest statement or on the credit card itself. Use a crosscut shredder to dispose of documents with any personal information (don’t forget prescription labels and documentation). Access our individual records retention schedule, which is designed to be a guide that applies to both paper and electronic records. Use only secured WiFi connections.

Ensure websites are secure before entering personal information (typically indicated with an “https://” prefix rather than just “http://”). Observe ATM terminals for unusual devices before processing a transaction. FRAUD DETECTION Detecting identity theft also involves learning what to look for and maintaining some good habits. First, there are some clues that may indicate your personal information has been compromised: • Unexpected withdrawals from your bank account(s) • Missing bills or statements • Merchants declining your check or other method of payment • Calls from debt collectors regarding debts that aren’t yours • Medical bills for services you did not use • Unfamiliar accounts or charges on your credit report

• Rejection of legitimate medical claims • IRS notification of multiple tax returns filed in your name • Notification from a company informing you that they have had a data breach It is important to pay attention to these signs—don’t make light of them, but rather treat them with urgency. You will notice some of these indicators require you to consistently monitor several items. To do so, get in the habit of: • Regularly reviewing your bank account transactions, at least weekly • Closely reviewing medical bills and insurance statements • Maintaining a checklist of regular bills, statements or other sensitive mail to make sure you receive them • Reviewing of your credit report monthly or quarterly, but at least annually. The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires that each credit

reporting agency (Equifax, Experian and TransUnion) provide you with one free credit report every 12 months. It is important to alternate reporting agencies to ensure you have reviewed, in full detail, the completeness, accuracy and timeliness of your credit reports. Each reporting agency is independent of one another and may contain different information. Due to the ever-growing occurrences of identity crimes, many organizations focus on helping to make detection easier. On average, victims of identity theft spend 30 hours and $500 before the problem is resolved, but credit-monitoring services offer a cost-effective option to minimize exposure. Services include credit monitoring, theft detection and problem continued on pg. 58

BC�T June 57

How to Protect Yourself . . . continued from pg. 57

resolution. These services range in price from $5-$20 per month and offer a wide variety of support including: • Providing periodical credit reports and scores • Protecting computer and internet activity • Monitoring use of your personal information • Monitoring new credit applications • Offering identity theft insurance FRAUD MITIGATION Taking preventative measures will certainly help reduce the chances that you will fall victim to identity theft, but cannot guarantee that it will never happen. Consequently, it is important to know the proper steps for quickly stopping the offenders to mitigate the impact, recover losses and get your accounts back in working order. The Federal Trade Commission suggests following five steps. Place a fraud alert on your credit reports. A fraud alert will allow you to limit the damage to what has already been done. Fraud alerts will prevent new accounts from being opened with your stolen information. Once you have placed a fraud alert with one of the credit reporting agencies, they are required to share the alert with the other two agencies. If you believe you may already be a victim, or if you are at a high risk, you can place an initial fraud alert on your account that will last for a period of 90 days. Also, individuals that have documentation in the form of an Credit Reporting Agency Telephone Number

identity theft report may place an extended alert on their accounts that will remain effective for seven years. Identity theft reports provide details pertaining to your specific instance. The report must contain a copy of the report filed with a law enforcement agency along with any other requirements the credit reporting agency requests. Request and review a current credit report. Obtaining and reviewing a current credit report may lead to identifying additional instances of fraud. Be skeptical and investigate any items that appear out of the ordinary. Close all affected accounts. To limit the financial and credit score damage identity theft may cause, it is essential that you close all accounts you believe may be compromised. Contact companies first by telephone and then in writing to ensure that your accounts have been properly closed. Any documentation obtained through these proceedings should be filed and used to restore any damage done to your credit score. File a report with your local police. Address

TransUnion www.transunion.com

800-680-7289

Fraud Victim Assistance Division P.O. Box 6790 Fullerton, CA 92834-6790

Equifax www.equifax.com

800-525-6285

P.O. Box 740241 Atlanta, GA 30374-0241

Experian www.experian.com

888-397-3742

P.O. Box 9532 Allen, TX 75013

58 BC�T June

Above: The best way to protect yourself is to be extremely cautious with your personal information. While this will be a constant chore, there are some habits you can develop.

In order to prove to creditors that accounts and charges are fictitious, it is important to receive a police report. Be persistent if the police are unwilling to provide one. If necessary, contact other local police districts or even the state police to obtain a report. File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). By filing a complaint with the FTC, you are helping to identify trends and other important information that is essential in catching thieves and stopping new occurrences before they even happen. Information from the FTC is shared with other agencies and companies that will allow for a more efficient investigation. FTC Contact information Identity Theft Clearinghouse Federal Trade Commission 600 Pennsylvania Ave., NW Washington, DC 20580 www.ftc.gov/idtheft 877-438-4338 866-653-4261 Skepticism and discipline are keys to keeping critical information out of the hands of thieves. By taking precautions and maintaining good security habits, you can gain some peace of mind. For even more information and tips, visit the identity theft resource page on the Federal Trade Commission website at www.consumer.ftc.gov/ features/feature-0014-identity-theft.

NPC News House Bill Strengthens Agriculture Export Resources H.R.2321 would double funding for the Market Access Program (MAP) In the first week of May, Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a bill to double the amount of export promotion funding provided for the agriculture industry. “These funds are desperately needed by U.S. agricultural exporters as foreign competitors provide vastly more support to their producers in key global markets,” says Kam Quarles, vice president of public policy for the National Potato Council (NPC).

$69 million annually. These programs have seen an erosion of funding over the past 10 years due to inflation and budget constraints, while foreign governments continue to enhance their competing programs. Co-sponsors of the bill are Reps. Roger Marshall (R-KS), Tom Rooney (R-FL), Chellie Pingree (D-ME), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) and Cheri Bustos (D-IL).

H.R.2321 would double funding for the Market Access Program (MAP) to $400 million annually and the Foreign Market Development Program to

Right: Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA), shown here addressing potato growers and associates during a breakfast session, February 15, at the D.C. Fly-In, introduced a bill the first week of May to double the amount of export promotion funding for the agriculture industry. continued on pg. 60

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NPC News . . . continued from pg. 59

Lawmakers Respond to Growing Ag Labor Crisis Two bills with very different perspectives were introduced in early May in response to agriculture’s farm labor crisis. Sen. Dianne Feinstein (DCA), joined by Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI) and Kamala Harris (D-CA), introduced a bill that would protect undocumented farmworkers from deportation under President Donald J. Trump’s strict policy changes. The bill is very similar to a portion of the Senate bill that was successfully passed in 2013, which provided a comprehensive solution to agriculture’s labor needs.

The second bill, introduced by Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI), chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Rep. Ken Buck (R-CO) would give individual states access to temporary visas for guest workers in agriculture and other industries. The proposal does not place occupational restrictions on those visas. The bill would grant visas for up to three years, addressing the needs in states whose guest workers are not seasonal. NPC continues to advocate for

Congress to address the full scope of the agricultural labor crisis, which includes strengthening of border security and interior enforcement, a guest worker program that is responsive to the needs of agriculture, and stability of the current workforce to minimize the short-term impact on consumers and producers. It would be extremely destructive for the U.S. economy if Congress moved forward on an “enforcementonly” approach without concurrently providing competitive solutions to the agriculture industry’s labor needs.

Omnibus Bill Increases Potato Breeding Funds Before leaving Washington, D.C. for a one-week recess, the House of Representatives and Senate passed a $1 trillion omnibus spending bill that funds the government through the end of September. The conference report includes an increase in the National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Potato Breeding Research line item to $2.25 million. NPC and the potato industry have been successful in increasing resources for this program despite substantial pressure from budget hawks. During the Potato D.C. Fly-In, NPC attendees advocated for $2.25 million to be included in the final agreement, and their advocacy was successful. This level mirrors the amount that the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Committee initially

60 BC�T June

had recommended. NPC is pleased that our requested amount for this appropriations cycle was included. “Funding from the Potato Research Special Grants has supported the development of varieties that have improved levels of resistance to diseases and pests of concern, including late blight, early blight and potato cyst nematodes, and improved market quality,” explains NPC CEO John Keeling. “This increase will further help the industry address emerging pests and diseases.” Right: NPC CEO John Keeling is shown here speaking at the 2017 Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association Industry Show banquet. Keeling says funding for the Potato Research Special Grants has supported the development of varieties that have improved levels of disease and pest resistance, and improved market quality.

Ali's Kitchen Boiled Salt and Vinegar Caprese Bites … Mmm!

Column and photos by Ali Carter, Vice President, WPGA Auxiliary Sometimes as I wander the grocery store aisles or browse through the rows at farmers’ markets, inspiration will strike me. I love those moments and the way that one little item can spark the thought for an entire recipe!

Scooping up some cherry tomatoes and little baby yellow potatoes, I headed to my kitchen, and with my family hovering nearby as my samplers, I began the preparations. The outcome was a flavorful skewer of deliciousness!

This happened recently when my eyes settled on some beautiful bunches of fresh basil.

The potatoes have a faint bite from the salt and vinegar, and the balsamic reduction offers a contrasting sweetness. The tomatoes and basil give these little skewers a calm freshness that always reminds me of summers and gardens, and the

I was inspired to create a twist on the traditional Caprese salad … and use potatoes … on a stick … with a reduction sauce. I told you I was inspired.

continued on pg. 62

Salt and Vinegar Caprese Bites INGREDIENTS: 12 small golden creamer potatoes 1 bunch fresh basil leaves 12 cherry tomatoes Package of fresh mozzarella pearls 1 ½ cups white vinegar 1 Tbsp. salt Balsamic Reduction Sauce (see recipe to follow) for dipping and drizzling 12 large toothpicks or appetizer skewers

Balsamic Reduction Sauce INGREDIENTS: 1 cup of good quality balsamic vinegar continued on pg. 62 BC�T June 61

Advertisers Index

Ali's Kitchen. . . continued from pg. 61

fresh mozzarella brings everything together with its creamy texture. Ok, ok, I’ll stop waxing poetic over these little bites and let you make them for yourself. Then you’ll see why I’ve fallen in love! Balsamic Reduction Sauce Instructions: 1. Pour balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. 2. Turn heat to medium high and bring vinegar to a boil. 3. Once boiling, reduce to simmer and let simmer for about 10 minutes until vinegar has reduced down to about ⅔ of a cup. Stir frequently (be sure to keep an eye on it because it can burn quickly). You will know the reduction sauce is ready when it lightly coats the back of spoon. 4. Remove from heat. 5. Let reduction cool and serve. Enjoy!

Caprese Bites Instructions:

AG Systems - The Handler............ 30 AG Systems - Sprayer Parts........... 59 AgRay Vision Systems................... 45

1. Combine potatoes, white vinegar and salt in a medium saucepan. Add enough water to cover the little potatoes by not quite 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are tender, about 20 minutes. Drain the water from the potatoes and allow them to cool just slightly.

AgroMetrics.................................. 28

2. To assemble your Potato Caprese Bites, place a potato at the end of the toothpick (or appetizer skewer if using), followed by a leaf of basil (gently folded if need be to fit), then a tomato and finally a pearl of mozzarella.

Fencil Urethane Systems.............. 14

3. To serve, either place the skewers onto a platter and drizzle all with the Balsamic Reduction Sauce or place the reduction sauce in a small serving bowl for dipping.

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62 BC�T June

WPVGA Associate Division 17th Annual Golf Outing & Barbeque Lake Arrowhead Golf Course

WPVGA Associate Division

Nekoosa, WI

Wednesday, July 12, 2017

The WPVGA Associate Division will host the 17th Annual Golf Outing at the Lake Arrowhead Golf Course in Nekoosa. The golf outing is followed by a splendid dinner barbeque and raffle prize drawings.

PlATInum SPOnSOr

The golf format is a four-person scramble with a shotgun start limited to the first 36 foursomes and sign up is a first-come basis, so sign up soon! Don’t miss out! Registration will start at 9:30 a.m. and the scramble will begin with a shotgun start at 10:30 a.m. Cost is $75/person which includes 18 holes of golf with cart. Proper golf etiquette is expected.

SIlVer SPOnSOrS

Still Available

Advanced Farm Equipment Ansay & Associates Badgerland Financial/United FCS

Lunch is available for all golfers that day courtesy of an associate sponsor. The dinner barbeque is held immediately following golf and is open to everyone in the industry whether you choose to golf or not.

Big Iron Equipment

Tickets are required. ‘Barbeque only’ ticket price is $15/person. Make checks payable to WPVGA. Please contact Julie Braun, 715-623-7683, if you have any questions.

lunch SPOnSOr

Volm Companies

Still Available

You can sponsor a hole for a minimum $200 donation in cash or prizes. Call Julie Braun, 715-623-7683, for more details.

✁

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: June 23, 2017

❑ Yes! I will golf. I am registering ______ golfers.

Group Leader Name: _____________________________

(Fee for golf only is $75 per person. This does not include barbeque.)

Company Name: _________________________________

❑ I wish to order _______ Barbeque Tickets at $15.00 per ticket.

Address: ________________________________________ City, State, Zip: __________________________________

❑ I would like to sponsor a hole at the golf outing. My donation of $_________ is enclosed.

Phone: __________________________________________ These are the people in my group: 1. ______________________________________________

Golf Fee: Number of Golfers x $75

$_________

Barbeque Tickets: Number of Tickets x $15

$_________

+ Hole Sponsor/Donation

$_________

Total Amount Enclosed:

2. ______________________________________________

$_________

Please return completed form and payment to: WPVGA • P.O. Box 327 • Antigo, WI 54409-0327

3. ______________________________________________

P.O. Box 327 Antigo, WI 54409

Non-Profit Org U.S. Postage Paid Stevens Point, WI 54481 Permit No. 480

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