Maine seed potatoes make way to Epcot

    MONTICELLO — Maine has always played a vital role in the nation’s seed potato industry, exporting tens of thousands of tons of Maine certified seed potatoes to states up and down the East Coast, and internationally, each year.  More than 100 growers from across Maine ship 100-plus varieties to places all over the map. Recently, however, commercial grower Daniel Corey sent seed potatoes to a new address: Epcot. Yes, as in the Walt Disney World Resort theme park.
    Epcot plans to use the seed potatoes to develop a suitable hydroponic potato growing method (growing plants in pots) and to select the right varieties so that potatoes could potentially be included in The Land pavilion. This attraction entertains millions of guests every year aboard the Living with the Land boat ride a 14-minute experience showcasing major agricultural crops from around the world.
     Corey, who operates Daniel Corey Farm in Monticello, believes beyond a shadow of a doubt Epcot will meet with success.
Houlton Pioneer Times photo/Joseph Cyr
FLORIDA BOUND — Daniel Corey of Daniel Corey Farm in Monticello has shipped several varieties  of seed potatoes to Epcot Center in Florida.
    “Our seed potatoes will grow there,” Corey said. “Florida is our biggest customer of seed potatoes, and we know what works. Our seed potato industry is second to none … our potatoes will be part of The Land.”
    Corey is excited about working with Epcot, namely because it is one more way to promote Maine’s potato industry and to educate people around the world.
    “Many people don’t even realize potatoes start out in a test tube, using the eye of a potato,” he said. “Many potatoes, even those grown in other states, get their start right here in Maine.”
    Corey donated Lachipper, Atlantic, Peter Wilcox, Harley Blackwell, Red Lasoda, N.Y. 129 and Yukon Gold seed potatoes. These varieties consist of reds, whites, yellows, purple, potato chip, and table varieties.
    There are about 380 potato growers in Maine, from Aroostook County to the western mountain region around Bethel and Fryeburg. The total impact of the potato industry on the state’s economy is $540 million in sales, 6100 jobs, over $230 million in personal income, and over $32 million in state and local taxes. For more information visit www.mainepotatoes.com.