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ens Page 7 of 11 6 Yl t The research was funded by the Northeast Regional Center for Rural Development, and by Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future. Read the report at: http : / /www.landuse.aers.psu.edu/ Potato Growers Honored For Environmental Actions WASHINGTON, DC, June 13, 2003 (ENS) - A partnership between WWF, the conservation organization, Wisconsin potato growers, and university researchers to reduce pesticide use received the Department of Agriculture's "Secretary's Honor Award." Agriculture Secretary Ann Veneman presented the award to the Eco- Potato Partnership for "maintaining and enhancing the nation's natural resources and environment." The six year collaboration between the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association, the University of Wisconsin, and WWF resulted in the accelerated adoption of integrated pest management systems .and reduced reliance on toxic pesticides. The partnership led to the establishment of Protected Harvest, an independent ecolabel. Wisconsin potatoes are the first product certified under the Protected Harvest label- and are marketed under the brand "Healthy Grown." To qualify for . the Protected Harvest seal, crop management practices must be employed that reduce the use of toxic pesticides, improve soil and water quality, and protect wildlife habitat. "The World Wildlife Fund is thrilled about the success of the Eco- Potato Partnership and pleased that the Department of Agriculture supports the work of conventional farmers who are finding ways to reduce their environmental impact while remaining competitive," said Jason Clay, vice president of the WWF's Center for Conservation Innovation and a member of Protected Harvest's board of directors. http: // ens - news.com /ens /jun2003/2003- 06- 13- 09.asp 06/16/2003