The Canadian private potato breeding network’s (CPPBN) 15th annual meeting resulted in some significant news updates.

On February 4, 2025, delegates heard brief reports from eight potato breeding programs in PEI, Québec, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Manitoba followed by vigorous discussions. Amongst the eight programs, approximately 200,000 seedlings are grown annually.  Issues around having new varieties with potato wart immunity was a central theme. The need for access to field trials with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) in Newfoundland appears to be a major constraint that needs to be resolved.

The CPPBN effectively shares information and genetic material amongst its potato breeders. It also facilitates communication between private potato breeders and government personnel in Agriculture Canada and government regulatory services.

In 2023, CPPBN reached agreement for sharing true potato seed from crosses with specific traits between Agriculture and Agri Food Canada (AAFC) and private breeders. In 2024, Private Potato Breeders also developed new seedlings with strong field resistance to late blight and viruses PVY, PLRV.  Several new varieties with processing potential have been developed by private breeders and were registered in Canada. Some potato selections, developed by the private breeders, are being evaluated in China, several countries of west Africa and Kenya in east Africa.

Dr Robert Coffin, pioneer potato breeder states,  “It’s amazing progress by this group of private breeders, who are so diligent in working together in a team approach. This group has developed outstanding varieties for commercial use already with many more in the pipeline.” 

Newton Yorinori, vice president Ag Research Development at Cavendish Farms, remains the president and chair of the CPPBN. Darin Gibson of Gaia Consulting in Manitoba serves as the vice president and vice chair of the organization. Dr Peter VanderZaag of Sunrise potatoes, Ontario will remain as secretary.

Source: Canadian Private Potato Breeders’ Network February 5, 2025 news release