Northwest Potato Research ConsortiumCooperative Effort of the Potato Commissions of ID, OR, & WA
Research & Extension for the Potato Industry of Idaho, Oregon, & Washington
Begun in 2001 as a research and extension communication tool for the Washington State potato industry, Potato Progress has since 2012 broadened its scope to formally serve the Northwest potato industry.
Recently Release Articles
Biological Control in Potato with the Whirligig Mite: Prospects and Challenges
The article explores the potential of the whirligig mite, Anystis baccarum, as a biological control agent for arthropod pests in potato fields. It discusses the limitations of using natural predators, as they may not be effective against all pests. The research highlights the whirligig mite's role as a consistent predator of the potato psyllid, along with its identification, distribution, and seasonal life cycle. While promising for pest control, sustaining its presence in potato fields may require habitat conservation or targeted efforts.
Published:
June 1, 2025
2025 Washington State Commercial Seed Lot Profile and Potato Field Day Preview
Washington State University, in collaboration with the Washington State Potato Commission, has been conducting the Commercial Seed Lot Trial for over six decades to evaluate the quality of potato seed. The program includes a training session designed to improve plant disease diagnostics, supported by experts from multiple states. In recent years, there has been a decline in the number of submitted seed lots, with 190 submitted for the 2025 trial, compared to 281 in 2024. The upcoming potato field day will feature discussions on seed lot performance and alternatives to neonicotinoids in managing virus transmission.
Published:
June 1, 2025
