The Minnesota Area II Potato Research and Promotion Council has notified the Minnesota Department of Agriculture of its intention to transition from a state-supported body to a privately funded and operated producer organisation.
Established on April 19, 1991, the council was formed to fund research projects benefiting potato producers in the state. As a state-supported entity, checkoff fees are collected by the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Over time, the council has supported projects covering soil health, fungicide evaluations, row spacing trials, and other production-focused research relevant to Minnesota potato growers.
Under state law, the proposed transition requires a public process. A public hearing is scheduled for February 25 at 18438 Co Rd 14 in Big Lake, Minnesota, at Ewing Farms. Proceedings will begin at 9 am, with the council's board expected to meet and vote at 10 am.
Interested participants may also attend virtually or by phone at 1-651-395-7448 using phone conference ID 395 610 316#.
If the board votes to terminate its current structure, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture would no longer provide oversight. Any approved changes would take effect on July 1.
The proposal reflects a structural shift in how potato research and promotion activities may be funded and administered within the state.
Source: Farms.com
