Searching a Scottish Potato Farm for Research and Demonstration

In the United Kingdom, AHDB Potatoes has announced that it is searching for the first farmer host for its new Scottish Strategic Potato (SPot) Farm.

Claire Hodge, project lead and AHDB Potatoes’ technical executive:
 

“The SPot Farm is a unique concept that improves the links between evidence based science and practical activity on-farm.”

“We’re seeking an innovative grower to work with us to challenge conventional working practices and, using proven research, demonstrate how potato growers can benefit from applying beneficial adjustments to commercial growing systems.”

The joint AHDB and Scottish Government-funded project, worth £150,000, will run for three growing seasons, finishing in late 2019.
Cabinet Secretary, Richard Lochhead, who announced the Scottish Government tranche of funding on 16 February said:
 

“This significant funding will help Scotland take advantage of its strong performance in research and development, and make sure that the learning from here and elsewhere can be transferred to on-the-ground improvements in agriculture, ensuring the flow of information and best practice farming into the community, where it can make a real difference to profits.”

The SPot Farm is a practical, farmer-driven project which is all about giving growers the confidence to implement changes on their own farms.

Claire Hodge:
 

“Not only are we seeking a ware or seed grower, we’re also inviting forward-thinking farmers to come forward to join the steering group and help shape this project for the Scottish industry.”

“The project will be rewarding for all involved, not least for the host farmer. Our aim is to uncover the research and ensure growers can use the results confidently from SPot Scotland to make real and beneficial changes to their businesses.”

Challenging cultivations and soil management practices, crop nutrition theory, varieties and seed rates, the use of precision, in-field greening, irrigation scheduling, crop variability and water run-off are all hot topics that could be included.

The host farmer and the steering group will play a key role in establishing the focus of the project, so Scotland’s forward-thinking potato growers are encouraged to join the project and participate, and to benefit from the discoveries made throughout this important three-year project.

Those wanting to get involved should contact Claire Hodge at AHDB Potatoes on +44 1312977460 or email Claire.hodge@ahdb.org.uk