The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has completed its 2024 National Potato Wart Survey and confirms that the disease was not detected.
This year’s survey analyzed more than 2,200 soil samples collected from seed potato fields in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia that had no known association with previous potato wart detections, according to a news release.
The survey monitors seed potato fields for the presence of potato wart and provides data to verify and improve the effectiveness of control measures in place. These measures help minimize potential impact on market access for Canada’s potato sector and the country’s fifth-largest primary agricultural crop. The 2024 survey results have been shared with provincial governments, the Canadian Potato Council and the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, the release said.
The survey complements other steps taken by the CFIA, growers, packers and exporters to ensure that requirements set by importing countries are met, including the Potato Wart Order.
As well, the release said a new National Potato Wart Response Plan will soon be implemented and includes improved risk mitigation measures such as enhanced biosecurity and additional soil sampling and analysis.
“Surveillance is an essential component of the CFIA’s work to monitor for invasive pests like potato wart. The survey also helps maintain the confidence of domestic and international trading partners in Canada’s potato industry,” said Paul MacKinnon, president of CFIA.
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