Project Number: 5341-22000-002-04
Project Type: Specific Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Sep 30, 2004
End Date: Aug 30, 2009

Objective:
The objective of this project is to enhance the quality and germplasm of Alaska potatoes. The specific goals are: 1) to safeguard the virus free conditions of seed potatoes in Alaska, 2) identify factors affecting the incidence of potato diseases and their vectors in the state.

Approach:
In the contiguous USA, the presence of viral diseases and their vectors is considered the most severe limiting factor for seed potato production. Because of geographical isolation and climate, Alaska crops are relatively free of many insect pests and diseases. However, the taxonomical identity, biology, population dynamics, and distribution of insect pests and the diseases they transmit are poorly understood in Alaska. Furthermore, reviewed publications documenting plant diseases in Alaska are limited and no epidemiological studies exist for viruses in Alaska potato plants. With the decline in the seed potato industry in the continental USA caused by increasing diseases and pests, Alaska is becoming a potential supplier of seed potatoes; therefore, there is a need for increased research to improve the understanding of disease etiologies and disease vectors.