The potato sector is poised for significant advancements with the initiation of seven industry projects, backed by residual levy reserves. This development follows the formal grant agreement recently established between the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) and GB Potatoes.
Earlier this year, AHDB’s board recommended this strategic move, which has now received official approval. This decision came in light of the winding down of levy payer activities within the potato sector and has garnered support from key potato membership organizations across the industry.
As Scott Walker, the Chief Executive of GB Potatoes, remarked, “Following the wind up of AHDB Potatoes, the sector has continued to face a number of serious challenges, including threats from disease and the ongoing issue of access to necessary plant protection products.” His statement underscores the pressing needs the industry faces.
In addition, Walker emphasized the importance of this new grant, stating, “This grant will kickstart new initiatives and galvanise existing projects that have previously operated on an annual, uncertain basis. It offers a foundation to transform key industry projects and develop a sustainable, industry-funded model for initiatives that are critical to the future of the potato sector. We are delighted that GB Potatoes has successfully secured the residual levy funds through a grant from AHDB to support projects for the benefit of the entire potato industry.”
Furthermore, he pointed out, “It is a fantastic opportunity for the potato industry to now take control of its future and influence the direction of the sector by addressing industry obstacles and building resilience.” Such sentiments illustrate the potential for growth and progress within the industry.
In alignment with these sentiments, AHDB CEO Graham Wilkinson stated, “The potato sector is a vital part of UK agriculture, and we are pleased to be able to support growers and the wider industry by releasing these residual funds for projects that will significantly contribute to the industry’s success.” This acknowledgment of the potato sector’s importance reflects a commitment to strengthening agriculture in the UK.
Overview of the Seven Proposed Projects
The recent funding decision paves the way for seven specialized projects, each targeting specific issues within the potato industry:
- Potato Blight Project: This project will tackle the significant threat posed by potato blight by monitoring genetic changes and fungicide sensitivity.
- Aphid Monitoring Project: This initiative supports nationwide aphid monitoring, providing valuable industry-wide data for informed decision-making.
- Management Tools to Tackle Viruses Project: This project aims to collaborate with the Horticulture Crop Protection (HCP) on behalf of the seed sector, enabling access to essential functions that ensure high-grade seed production.
- Reputational Management Project: This initiative is designed to safeguard the industry’s reputation through strategic monitoring, proactive crisis management, centralized coordination, influencer engagement, and effective media outreach.
- Bridging Information Gap Project: This project will provide transparent and reliable data on potato cultivation, various potato varieties, and national yield statistics.
- CIPC Residue Monitoring Project: This initiative will support the industry in supplying data to the Chemical Regulation Division (CRD), facilitating assessments of chlorpropham (CIPC) residues in stores. Failure to submit this essential data risks rendering storages with a CIPC history unusable.
- Updating Nutrient Management (RB209) Project: With a focus on moving the industry forward, this project aims to revise fertilizer recommendations to reflect current technologies and practices.
The funding allocated for these endeavors will stem from approximately £1.8 million in potato reserves held by AHDB since the withdrawal of levy payer activities. Notably, £400,000 will be reserved to address any potential residual liabilities. The grant distribution will be implemented gradually over a span of three to five years, decreasing yearly as GB Potatoes enhances its flow of voluntary industry funding. Initially, the grant will amount to £1,371,880 over the first three years.
Looking ahead, the grant for years four and five could reach a total of £426,238, contingent upon a successful review and the availability of sufficient potato funds designated for residual liabilities.
It is worth mentioning that letters of support for funding these seven projects were received from a range of influential organizations, including the National Farmers Union (NFU), NFU Scotland, NFU Cymru, the British Potato Trade Association, the Fresh Potato Supplier Association, and the Potato Processor’s Association. This widespread backing from the industry emphasizes the collaborative spirit aimed at enhancing the potato sector’s resilience and innovation.
