How Montana Farmers Produce Quality Seed Potatoes
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Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2023-2024 OLLI at MSU Membership
Description
Montana farmers grow premier disease-free seed potatoes, accounting for 10% of U.S. production. The original planting stock originates as pathogen-free tissue culture in the lab. Seed potatoes are grown for a limited number of generations and are inspected and tested in the lab for important diseases. Almost half of Montana's seed potatoes are grown in the Gallatin Valley.
The second session will be a field trip to Kimm Seed Potatoes. See the location on a map.
Space is limited to 30 people.
Course Takeaways
The Montana seed potato certification program is foundational to the production of potatoes in the United States. Seed potato production is technologically and labor intensive and relies on advanced biotechnology in the lab and sophisticated mechanization on the farm. Planting disease-free seed potatoes is paramount, not only for farmers growing potatoes for processing or fresh market but also for the home garden.
Please note
The tour session involves standing and walking outside at Kimm Seed Potatoes on ground that may be uneven. Please dress for the weather in clothing that can get dirty and wear comfortable and supportive footwear.
Scholarships
| Fee: | $40.00 |
Nina Zidack
Nina Zidack grew up on a farm/ranch in Central Montana. She received a B.S. in horticulture from MSU and a Ph.D. in plant pathology from Auburn University. She has served as the Director of Seed Potato Certification at Montana State University since 2008 and supervises all aspects of the seed certification program. In addition, she serves on national and international committees that establish standards for quality seed potatoes.| Date | Day | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09/26/2023 | Tuesday | 3 PM to 5 PM | MSU Bozeman - Plant Growth Center |
| 09/29/2023 | Friday | 1 PM to 4 PM | Field Trip |