When Dr. Kelly Turner considers what Michigan State University research means to the state’s potato growers and consumers, the message is simple.

“MSU research is not a luxury. It’s a necessity,” said Turner, executive director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC). “Continued public investment in research ensures that Michigan agriculture can solve the problems of tomorrow, today.”

Like those of other crops, Michigan potato growers face a number of threats, from diseases and insects to competition from other states. Turner’s role with MPIC is to position the industry to thrive now and into the future through fostering grower collaboration, building research partnerships and promoting the industry’s efforts publicly to ensure economic prosperity.

For decades, MSU scientists have worked alongside potato growers to address their most pressing challenges. Potato breeding, disease, insect and weed control, and input recommendations have been vital to the industry.