b'Changing the Face ofManitoba Potato ResearchThe future U of M Research Chair in Potato Sustainability will drive forward Manitoba potato research work.BY: SHANYN SILINSKITHE UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA (U of M), along withHaving a position leading potato and horticulture research growers and industry partners, is fundraising for a Researchwhile supporting industry-led initiatives and creating pathways Chair in Potato Sustainability. The new position will helpfor knowledge transfer between academia, industry, and growers the Manitoba potato industry tackle key goals relating towill be a first for the university, explains Nazim Cicek, associate sustainability while also engaging in field-level research.dean of research in the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences The idea for a research chair was born from a 2022 reportat the U of M.made by the Manitoba Potato Research Committee (MPRC).The hiring of a proposed research chair is gathering support The MPRC represents the Manitoba potato industry withfrom across the industry including from Peak of the Market and representation from across the industry, including collaborativethe Keystone Potato Producers Association (KPPA). Peak of the relationships with other programs doing research and extensionMarket is a fresh potato and vegetable supplier in the province, work in the province. In January 2022, MPRC recommended inwhile KPPA represents potato growers from across the province. the Potato Science and Technology Strategy final report that aThe positive industry response is signaling how important potato research chair should be established at the U of M with ait is becoming to increase the capacity for students to work in focus on sustainability.applied research and extension programming. Working closely A technician supervises fertilization application on a University of Manitoba potato field trial. PHOTO: UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA24SPUDSMART.COM Winter 2023'