2025 - Your Commission at Work

YOUR RESEARCH COMMITTEE AT WORK

Research

North Carolina has a long tradition of producing a healthy, safe, and quality product, but in recent years, there have been significant issues that require a concentrated effort to maintain that tradition. We are not immune to the potential of a horticultural crisis, and to prepare for any such situation, we work with researchers at NC State University to gain knowledge on how to mitigate what could be devastating issues. For the last several seasons, GRKN (guava root knot nematode) has been the center of our issues. Realizing the devastating economic blow GRKN could have on our farms, allied industries, and overall economy, the NC General Assembly allocated an astonishing $5M in 2023 to eradicate GRKN, for which dedicated projects are ongoing. It’s not only GRKN that has been in the spotlight; export markets are suffering due to stringent MRL (maximum residue limits) restrictions. As more overseas markets establish their own acceptable MRL levels and expand the list of substances that will no longer be tolerated, we have to find

acceptable, affordable replacements that do not diminish the quality of our crop. The Research Committee is an integral part of monitoring the health and sustainability of our industry. As we join the university in embracing a bold vision for the future, we lean on their field and practical expertise to provide relevant research to grow our future. The Research Committee ensures that pertinent sweetpotato research is applicable to provide the best product to our state, nation, and world. Beginning on the next page, you will find the FY 24-25 research projects that were funded through grower assessments. Each year, progress on assessment-funded projects is presented at NC State Extension Sweetpotato Field Day, and often at production meetings, as a way to keep membership informed of activity and the expected benefits for your operation. Your participation in these meetings helps not only keep you up to date on the progress, but also offers a chance to ask questions and give input on your field observation that may enhance the project outcomes.

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