PASS THE PEST-FREE POTATOES, PLEASE.

• Position: Brief Article

Step aside, Idaho, here comes Alaska. Years of research and work by an Alaskan plant pathologist have produced a certifiably fungus- and virus-free potato that has trade negotiators excited. "It's one time when our severe winters play to our advantage," said Doug Warner with the state Department of Natural Resources. In trade talks, pest-free products are king. No country wants to import products it fears will contaminate local crops. China for years has blocked the importation of...