Some new strains of blight are much more aggressive than their old US 1 counterparts. There are also A1 and A2 mating types which together sexually reproduce spores that may survive on dead plant tissue and in the soil, though these sexual spores have not yet been found in the Pacific Northwest. New strains such as US 8 are gaining a foothold in eastern Oregon areas formerly free of blight. Understand the disease Know thy enemy. Potato debris coming out of storage in late winter and early spring is especially dangerous because the fungus was protected from cold winter temperatures while in storage and emerges alive - ready to infect.
Varieties differ considerably in susceptibility to late blight tuber decay.
Russet Norkotah is extremely susceptible, followed closely by Shepody and Ranger Russet. The chipping potatoes are also highly susceptible and require close management. Russet Burbank, on the other hand, is moderately resistant. Use blight free certified seed. Request shipping point inspectors to make note if late blight is found.