All UK growers are being encouraged to participate in an independent survey which aims to gather insight about what farmers know about potato cyst nematode.
Microscopic yet catastrophic, potato cyst nematodes (PCN) are a serious pest problem that continues to plague potato growers across the UK.
Following a recent article in CPM, whereby its importance was stressed to all who manage land with potatoes in the rotation, a survey has been launched.
By working with GB PCN Forum (a partnership between GB Potatoes and CUPGRA) and Harper Adams’ Nematology Research Group on this independent survey, CPM wants to gather insight about what farmers know about PCN, with no pre-conceived thoughts on current levels of understanding.
Make or break
But why? If UK agriculture ignores PCN, in 40 years there’ll be no clean land left to grow seed potatoes in Scotland. Furthermore, with half of the UK’s potato area grown on rented land, experts believe this is a conversation that involves more than just potato growers directly
Once complete, participants will be entered into a prize draw to win £100 of Amazon vouchers. However, perhaps more importantly, the insight gleaned from the survey will be used to help steer future priorities, as evidence for research funding applications, to support potential industry change, and more.
To fill in the short survey, click here.
