A new online programme from the Potato Council has been launched to help growers complete their returns quickly and simply, reducing the need for traditional paper maps and eliminating extra administration time and costs.
The e-planting returns system allows growers to navigate an online map and search for a field by inputting the map reference or FIS number - or the place name - and then complete the required fields, farm name and number of hectares planted, as well as choosing the variety and market sector.
The process is repeated for all plantings, after which the detail is submitted directly to Potato Council. All the information is stored securely and there is also the facility to save data on the website has received positive industry feedback since it went live last year in a pilot programme.
Inga Martin, Potato Council personnel and legal services director, said: “The site was created as a simple alternative to the traditional paper returns system and to help streamline the process for growers.
“It is incredibly easy to use but comes complete with an online user guide for first-time users and is supported by our technical team. The map data is validated instantly and there are prompts at each stage to ensure that no inaccurate or incomplete returns can be filed, saving a huge amount of time.
“Of course, growers can still print and keep hard copies for their records. They can also rest assured that the system is completely secure.”
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