02/09/07 Bean trial results

Gratifying results. A prospect for increased exports of Idaho dry bean seed to Mexico. That's what the Idaho Bean Commission is saying about three tests of certified Idaho seed planted in Mexico last year. Kathy Stewart Williams of the University of Idaho Foundation Seed Program has been involved in the two pinto tests in Chihuahua and one black bean test in Zacatecas. STEWART-WILLIAMS "And then when we got to Chihuahua I thought we were just so lucky because they actually planted two tests and even though the tests were just a few miles apart the growing environments were very different so that gave us a really good overview. And then when the yields came back, you know some of our stuff just looks great." Mexican growers and seed companies saw the same thing. Stewart Williams says three years of testing in Mexico have paid off and may someday bring big returns for Idaho. STEWART WILLIAMS "You know I think if some of the dealers and warehouses can further the relationships that we've started to develop in Mexico you know that's an opportunity to turn around and grow more seed here in Idaho and then move it back into Mexico." Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott