Established 1966
Michigan potato and dry bean producers are the main beneficiaries of the research conducted at the 57-acre Montcalm Research Center. The center also leases 40 additional acres for research and demonstration projects. Research activities include potato variety evaluation, cultural practices, fertility and weed, insect and disease control. Michigan ranks sixth in the nation in potato production value and is the No. 1 producer of chipping potatoes in the country. The center is adjacent to the Burt Cargill Potato Demonstration Storage facility which consists of two buildings that, combined, house nine 50,000-pound bulk potato storages. These storages allow researchers to study the commercial potential of new processing potato varieties as well as perform other post-harvest evaluations under simulated commercial evaluation.
News
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The 2026 Montcalm County Potato Field Day will feature a balance of education, fun and industry camaraderie
Published on July 8, 2026
MSU Extension and Michigan Potato Industry Commission will host the potato field day on August 6 at the Montcalm Research Center. Two RUP credits are available. -
MSU AgBioResearch, MSU Extension announce 2025 field days
Published on May 8, 2025
The events will take place across Michigan from May through September. -
Michigan State University Extension and Michigan Potato Industry Commission potato seed spacing and depth research
Published on April 17, 2025
MSU Extension, in partnership with the Michigan Potato Industry Commission, conducts potato seed spacing and depth research with published factsheets highlighting year one research. -
MSU AgBioResearch, MSU Extension to host field days around the state this summer
Published on May 28, 2024
Growers and producers will have the chance to participate in field days across Michigan. -
MSU potato field day attracts industry professionals to discuss management techniques
Published on August 21, 2023
Field day held at MSU AgBioResearch’s Montcalm Research Center