Prof Ian Toth from SCRI and Dr John Elphinstone from Fera will be examining the emerging threat of Dickeya which, although not a quarantine disease, is an increasing threat to the potato industry. It has become a major cause of seed downgrading and rejections in northern Europe.
“The threat from Dickeya is also an opportunity for our seed industry, as the Safe Haven Scheme helps protect seed and ware from this potentially devastating disease,” says Potato Council chairman Allan Stevenson, who will be chairing the event. “The high health status of seed certified by this scheme offers tangible advantages to our industry so we must recognise this, and do our utmost to capitalise on having a weapon in our armoury that will reduce the plant health risks for all growers and landowners.Managing these risks is part of good business practice, and the Seed Industry Event is a very valuable opportunity for everyone in the industry to hear about ways they can address their concerns and question international speakers and researchers directly,” he continues. “These are exciting times for anyone involved in the breeding, growing, handling, exporting or retailing of GB seed potatoes.”
Rounding off the proceedings will be the ever-popular industry dinner and awards ceremony.
