Potato producers urged to 'stay vigilant' amid mop-top threat

Biosecurity Tasmania has received “minimal interest” via its Exotic Plant Pest Hotline since the announcement last week that the potato mop-top virus had been detected on a farm.

While tracing continues to try to determine how the virus made its way into the state, the public and growers have been encouraged to stay vigilant for any further sightings.

The virus was identified on a north-west farm, which has not been identified, and is not limited to a single variety, according to Biosecurity Tasmania.

With the state’s spuds a mainstay of the frozen chip market, processed by Simplot, there are fears of a potential threat to future harvests if the virus spreads.

The news came as the state’s growers entered negotiations with Simplot around the price to be paid for the next harvest.

More detailed information about the disease is being concentrated on a dedicated webpage which will go live in coming days and can be accessed via www.nre.tas.gov.au/currentalerts

Any reports can be made to Biosecurity Tasmania, or the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline at 1800 084 881.