The Canadian Private Potato Breeders Network (CPPBN) elected Dr Robert Coffin as president for a two-year term at its January 26, 2022 annual meeting, He has had an illustrious career as a potato specialist working both in the public and private sectors. Along with his wife Joyce, they have their own private breeding program, which has released several outstanding varieties including the cultivar Prospect. 

Andre Gagnon of Progest/ Quebec Parmentier steps down from his leadership role as president in the last two years. 

 
Dr Newton Yorinori was elected as vice president. He leads the large-scale newly established potato breeding program for Cavendish Farms in Prince Edward Island. 

The CPPBN is a network of private breeders representing seven potato breeding programs from across Canada who share expertise and genetic material amongst themselves and cooperate with many public institutions on an individual basis.

The CPPBN members have released numerous varieties that are grown in North America and are being evaluated in many other countries of the southern hemisphere as well as Asia. 

The new president can be reached at coffinpotato@gmail.com

Source:  Canadian Private Potato Breeders Network January 27, 2022 news release