The Alaska Division of Agriculture announced that its Certified Seed Potato Program has played a significant role in limiting the introduction of potato diseases and pests for decades, protecting both Alaska’s environment and its potato industry.
According to the announcement, one of Alaska’s earliest agricultural regulatory programs was the Certified Seed Potato Program, established in 1946 before statehood. The division said early adoption of strict standards helped ensure that Alaska remains relatively free of many common potato pests and diseases. More information about certified seed potato requirements is available through the division’s website.
The division advised consumers that most Alaska Grown certified seed potato producers sell directly to local greenhouses. “By purchasing from your neighborhood greenhouse, you’re supporting local growers and ensuring that you’re planting clean, certified seed. If you’re ever unsure whether the potatoes being sold are certified, simply ask the seller and request their certification documentation,” the division said.
Personnel at the Alaska Division of Agriculture hold expertise in areas like agronomy and resource management, according to the official website. The division allocates grants to support agricultural operations and food security as reported by the official website. It also promotes sustainable farming to boost local food availability and community resilience according to the official website.
The division maintains the Plant Materials Center on 270 acres in Palmer for agricultural research and plant propagation as said on its official website. It recognizes outstanding contributions through awards such as the Farm Family of the Year and Golden Carrot Award according to its official website. The agency operates as part of the Alaska Department of Natural Resources as reported by its official website.
More details can be found at the organization’s website.
