By Blake Jackson
On Thursday, July 10, 2025, the University of Wisconsin-Madison College of Agricultural and Life Sciences welcomed nearly 100 participants to its annual Potato Research Field Day, held at the Hancock Agricultural Research Station.
Attendees included growers, researchers, and community members from across Wisconsin, all gathering to learn about the latest developments in potato research.
The event opened with remarks from Mike Peters, director of the Agricultural Research Station Network, and State Senator Rachael Cabral-Guevara of District 19.
Senator Cabral-Guevara received the Friend of Agriculture Award for her ongoing support of the state’s agricultural research facilities. Senator Guevara was recognized for authoring a budget motion that secured $2 million in additional funding for UW-Madison’s research stations, aimed at enhancing infrastructure and modernizing equipment.
“I wasn’t aware that this facility was as amazing and impressive as it is until I had the opportunity to come out here and hear from the scientists and the students," says Cabral-Guevara. “This isn’t just something that benefits the students and the researchers, this is something that many of our community members utilize for their farms and their growth. It has impacts across the state, our county and the world.”
The motion underscored the significance of UW’s agricultural research stations: “The agricultural research stations operated by UW are the research and development laboratories for Wisconsin’s $104 billion agricultural sector, hosting more than 1,350 studies annually. Wisconsin farms deploy the practices tested at these farms to improve their economic returns, protect their natural resources and provide healthy, nutritious food for consumers.”
“Our work here is driven by collaboration with faculty, industry partners, producers, students and policymakers,” says Peters. “Sen. Cabral-Guevara is a key collaborator who is advocating for the research and development arm of the state of Wisconsin.”
Attendees toured six research plots, learning about nitrogen management, potato breeding, pest control, chemical leaching, disease management, and precision ag tools. The day concluded with a social hour and dinner sponsored by the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association’s Associate Division.
“What I love about field days is the chance to bring everyone together to see how research translates into real-world solutions for growers in the Central Sands and beyond,” says Peters. “This is the Wisconsin Idea in action.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-npantos
Categories: Wisconsin, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Education