b'ONTARIO PRINCE EDWARD ISLANDKevin Brubacher, general manager John Visser, chair of the Prince Edward Island of the Ontario Potato Board Potato BoardThe 2023 harvest in Ontario concluded in a timely manner, howeverPrince Edward Island has completed a successful harvest season, extremely warm conditions for a few days slowed digging for someharvesting approximately 98 per cent of total planted acreage, across the province. This season Ontario growers were fortunate todespite challenging conditions in the final weeks of harvest. Yields receive ample precipitation across all growing areas. In some areasranged from average to above average, varying across the province, excess moisture caused disease pressure and late blight in isolatedbut very positive overall. The growing season presented challenges instances. Production is up as a result of above average yields.early-on of drought-like conditions and changing mid-season to Due to wet conditions coupled with higher-than-normalsurplus moisture. Despite the variability in the weather conditions, temperatures at harvest we have seen some isolated incidents ofthe harvested crop offered both favourable quality and yields. breakdown in storage. Growers have done an excellent job ofIn the processing sector, growers across P.E.I. report sufficient working through trouble areas and minimizing losses. Dec. 1yields to fulfil their contracted obligations. In addition, there will be storage holdings show that there should be adequate supply to fillsome open volume available of processing varieties for fryers of the our markets through to new crop.Atlantic northeast. Processing quality parameters such as colour, The Ontario Potato Board held a successful 48th annual generalspecific gravity and size profile are scoring at average or above-meeting on Dec. 6, 2024. Attendance was our highest ever withaverage levels. industry representatives from all across Canada. The keynoteFor the fresh market, concerns arose over the large crop in western speaker this year was Chris Koch presenting If I Can. For those ofNorth America. Below average crops in regions surrounding P.E.I., you that dont know, Koch and his story is one I suggest you look itcoupled with P.E.I.s proximity to their markets has mitigated the up. Hes an inspiration and a wonderful speaker. Thank you to allimpact. While wet harvest conditions may stress some storages, our growers, industry representatives and those from out of provincegrowers are diligently monitoring and optimizing crop usage. for your contribution to a great day. Prices, though softer than last years highs, remain strong. Recent The annual Ontario Potato Conference hosted by Eugenia Banksmovement was boosted by Thanksgiving and Christmas sales, and will once again be held in Guelph, Ont. at the Delta Hotel andthe usual post-holiday lull is anticipated. Conference Centre. The conference will be held Thursday, Feb. 29,Post-harvest test results have been excellent thus far in the testing 2023. This event will be highly informative with a lineup of speakerscompleted. P.E.I. experienced high aphid populations in 2022, you dont want to miss. Everyone is welcome to attend this event,contributing to higher virus pressure in seed harvested. The virus please contact the Ontario Potato Board at (519) 846-5553 or emailcap was maintained and not adjusted. In 2023, growers focused on [email protected] for information on how to register. management practices for maintaining the integrity of high-quality seed. The annual P.E.I. Potato Industry Awards Banquet was held on Nov. 24, 2023, recognizing influential participants of the Islands potato industry. Individuals acknowledged for their substantial contributions included Ray Keenanwith Rollo Bay Holdings, Andy Walker who is a retired Island farmer, and Brenda Simmons and MaryKay Sonierboth of whom retired in 2023 from the P.E.I. Potato Board. The International Potato Technology Expo is scheduled for Feb. 22 to 23 in Charlottetown, P.E.I. This is a great opportunity for all industry members to explore cutting-edge technologies, network with industry experts and stay updated on the latest developments in potato technology and agriculture.SPUDSMART.COMWinter 202453'