WALDOBORO —  The University of Maine Cooperative Extension is hosting a presentation and roundtable discussion centered around the cultivation and marketing practices of specialty potato varieties. The event will be held Monday, March 25, from 4 - 6 p.m., at the UMaine Extension Knox and Lincoln Counties office, 377 Manktown Road. 

Attendees will hear from Brett Johnson, Extension Farm Business Management Educator, who will share insights and best practices in the growing of specialty potato varieties. Following the presentation, there will be a roundtable discussion where commercial specialty potato producers are encouraged to share their experiences in marketing these products. The information gathered during the discussion will contribute to the University of Maine's ongoing potato variety trialing efforts.

“The rising consumer interest and demand for fresh-market potato varieties with unique size, shape, color, and taste profiles present exciting market opportunities for specialty crop producers,” said UMaine Extension, in a news release.

The event provides knowledge and networking opportunities to those interested in exploring or expanding their involvement in the specialty potato industry.  

The event is free, and donations are welcomed but not required. Light refreshments will be provided.

To register, visit the event webpage. For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation, contact Pamela Doherty, pamela.doherty@maine.edu, 207.832.0343. 

University of Maine Cooperative Extension:

As a trusted resource for over 100 years, University of Maine Cooperative Extension has supported UMaine's land and sea grant public education role by conducting community-driven, research-based programs in every Maine county. UMaine Extension seeks to build thriving communities and grow the food-based economy, focusing on aspects from production and processing to nutrition, food safety and food security. Extension also conducts the most successful out-of-school youth educational program in Maine through 4-H which offers hands-on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and civic engagement and creates a positive environment where participants are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles.