New Potato Sector Forum Established to Address £31 Million Nematode Problem

A novel initiative, the PCN forum, has been launched to combat the challenges posed by the potato cyst nematode, a parasitic worm adversely affecting potato farming. This pest impacts approximately 48% of the land designated for ware potato cultivation in Great Britain. The forum, under the supervision of GB Potatoes, plans to consolidate knowledge from both academic and industry sources to devise a comprehensive strategy against this pest. Dr. Matthew Back from Harper Adams University highlighted the significant financial implications of this nematode, approximating a yearly cost of £31 million to the industry. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, predicting a stark decrease in seed potato yields in Scotland if the nematode spread continues unchecked. The PCN forum aims to be inclusive, incorporating insights from various stakeholders, from farmers to retailers. It will lean on the expertise of professionals like Dr. Back, who has been researching sustainable solutions like trap cropping and biofumigation, to develop effective, field-ready strategies.