INIA Kampenaike is advancing a program titled "Transfer, Application of Techniques, and Processing for the Sustainability of Potato Production among Farmers in Magallanes." Funded by the Regional Government of Magallanes, the initiative began in November 2024. Carolla Martínez, regional deputy director of INIA Kampenaike, outlines the program's three primary objectives.
The first objective is the expansion of the potato seedbed area to five hectares, incorporating INIA-developed varieties, Yaike and Porvenir. This aims to boost the availability of certified seed, enhancing crop productivity and resilience. Martínez states, "The program already benefits more than 300 farmers, and with this new phase, we hope to reach around 500 farmers throughout the region."
The second focus is on adapting technologies to climate change. This includes using varieties more tolerant to water shortages, strategic irrigation for water efficiency, and endophytic microorganisms to reduce fertilization needs and control disease.
The third line of the program is the addition of value to Magellanic potatoes. This involves setting up two processing plants in Punta Arenas and Puerto Natales, focusing on new products like snacks, plant-based drinks, and jams. Martínez adds, "We want to innovate. We're trying out snack-style potato chips, vegetable potato milk, and other byproducts in communities with higher production, like Natales and Punta Arenas."
Regional Governor Jorge Flies remarks on the collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, saying, "This is one of the most successful projects we have as a Regional Government." Claudia Gómez, director of INIA Kampenaike, notes, "Innovating in a traditional crop like potatoes allows us to strengthen the productive chain and increase the value of our products."
Source: Argenpapa