PotatoCountry.com • December 2023 Western focus. National impact.
2024
Buyers' Guide ADVERTISER INDEX Agri-Stor ............................. 39 All Star ............................... 40 Arnold Seed........................ 19 Bayer .................................... 2 Buyan Ranch ...................... 34 Colorado Seed .................... 31 Dick Bedlington .................. 25 Edmonton Potato Growers ... 8 Greentronics....................... 31 Idaho Crop.......................... 12 IPC........................................ 5 Kerian................................. 15 Lake Seed ........................... 15 Lockwood ........................... 15 Mayo .................................. 13 Montana Seed ...................... 9 North Dakota Seed ............. 29
Nutri-Cal............................. 19 Potato Expo ........................ 27 Potato Growers of Alberta .. 34 Redox ................................. 23 Schutter Seed ..................... 29 Skone Irrigation .................. 36 Solanum ............................. 35 SpudEquip.com .................. 25 Streich & Assoc. ................. 11 Stukenholtz ........................ 37 The Potato Podcast Sponsored by Vive .........31, 35 Titan Steel .......................... 17 Trinity................................... 3 Van Doren Sales.................. 17 Verbruggen......................... 33 WA/OR Potato Conf. ........... 21
PLUS: Road Trip Spud Grower Farms Plentiful Potato Supply Situation
ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Not all products are registered for use in all states and may be subject to use restrictions. The distribution, sale, or use of an unregistered pesticide is a violation of federal and/or state law and is strictly prohibited. Check with your local dealer or representative for the product registration status in your state. Bayer, Bayer Cross, and Velum are registered trademarks of Bayer Group. For additional product information, call toll-free 1-866-99-BAYER (1-866-992-2937) or visit our website at www.BayerCropScience.us. Bayer CropScience LP, 800 North Lindbergh Boulevard, St. Louis, MO 63167. ©2023 Bayer Group. All rights reserved. ®
A TRAILER THAT WORKS
AS HARD AS YOU DO TRUSTED. PROVEN. HARDWORKING.
For almost 50 years, Trinity trailers and truck bodies have been engineered to fit the needs of your operation. Whether you're on the road or in the field, you can rely on your Trinity EagleBridge™ or EagleBed™ to help you get the job done.
TRUST A TRINITY. trinitytrailer.com
800.235.6577
TABLE OF CONTENTS Vol. 39 No. 8 PO Box 333, Roberts, Idaho 83444 Telephone: (208) 520-6461 Circulation: (503) 724-3581
PotatoCountry.com
Country Western focus. National impact.
DECEMBER 2023
EDITOR
Denise Keller editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com
OPERATIONS MANAGER, ADVERTISING Brian Feist brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com
PUBLISHER, ADVERTISING
6 2024 Buyers' Guide
Dave Alexander dave@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com
22 Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions Road Trip
INSECT IDENTIFICATION
Andy Jensen www.nwpotatoresearch.com
DISEASE IDENTIFICATION
Jeff Miller jeff@millerresearch.com
28 Making a Difference in the San Luis Valley Spud Grower Farms
36 Plentiful Potato Supply Situation Market Report
MARKET REPORT
Ben Eborn napmn@napmn.com
POTATO GROWERS OF WASHINGTON Dale Lathim dale@pgw.net
EDITORIAL INFORMATION
Potato Country is interested in newsworthy material related to potato production and marketing. Contributions from all segments of the industry are welcome. Submit news releases, new product submissions, stories and photos via email to: editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com.
ADVERTISING SALES
For information about advertising rates, mechanics, deadlines, etc., call (208) 520-6461 or email dave@PotatoCountry.com.
SUBSCRIPTIONS
U.S. $24 per year / Canada $40 per year / Foreign $80 per year Subscriptions can be entered online at: potatocountry.com/subscribe or call (503) 724-3581. Email address changes/corrections to: brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com or send to Potato Country, PO Box 333, Roberts, ID 83444. Potato Country magazine (ISSN 0886-4780), is published eight times per year and mailed under a standard rate mailing permit at Idaho Falls, Idaho and at additional mailing offices. It is produced by: Columbia Media Group, PO Box 333, Roberts, ID 83444 Copyright 2023. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose without the express written permission of Columbia Media Group.
EDITORIAL BOARD A wrapper secures a pallet of stacked boxes for loading and transport at Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions. Take a road trip to the operation on page 22.
ON THE COVER
DEPARTMENTS
The 2024 Buyers' Guide will give you choices in crop inputs, equipment, parts, potato seed, storage and more.This list is by no means comprehensive, but provides enough contacts to get any job done.
30 Disease Quiz
See guide starting on page 6.
38 Advertiser Index
4 Potato Country • December 2023
32 Insect Quiz 34 In the News
Chris Voigt
Gary Roth
Executive Director Washington State Potato Commission (509) 765-8845
Executive Director Oregon Potato Commission (503) 239-4763
37 Calendar 38 PGW Column Nina Zidack
Director Montana Seed Potato Certification (406) 994-3150
Jamey Higham President/CEO Idaho Potato Commission (208) 334-2350
Jim Ehrlich
President/CEO Colorado Potato Commission (719) 852-3322
Our latest TV spot offers an amusing warning on why you should always look for the Grown In Idaho seal. ®
An all-new TV campaign has launched for Idaho potatoes that suggests serving anything ®
other than Idaho potatoes could have disastrous consequences. When the host of a dinner party lets her guests know that none of the potatoes she’s serving are from Idaho, chaos and hilarity ensue. The spot will begin airing nationwide in November on Fox News, CNN, Headline News, Food Network, ESPN, HGTV, History, TNT, The Weather Channel, TBS and AMC, as well as Discovery+ streaming network.
See it for yourself at IdahoPotato.com
2024 Buyers’ Guide T
here are a lot of moving parts involved in growing and marketing a potato crop - from needing the right products to protect your crop from pests and pathogens to having the right equipment to efficiently navigate the season. For most growers, packers and shippers, this translates into a constant to-do list, shopping list and wish list.
Whether your list has you searching for a new harvester or just some innovative irrigation equipment, you’ll find an extensive list of suppliers in Potato Country’s 2024 Buyers’ Guide. Think of the following pages as your rolodex of resources available to help you enjoy a successful season, from seed to storage.
CROP INPUTS............ 7-8 Fertilizers and Growth Promoters Fungicides Herbicides Insecticides/Pesticides/Fumigants Nematicides
EQUIPMENT ............ 9-11 Bagging/Packaging Covers Harvesters/Harvesting Planters/Planting Scales/Weighing Seed Cutters and Seed Treaters Tillage Trucks & Trailers Used Equipment
MISCELLANEOUS . 12-13 Auctioneers Consulting Labs Finance Irrigation Parts Trade Shows & Events
SEED ...................... 14-18 SHIPPERS ................... 19 STORAGE .................... 20
Chemicals for Storage Construction/Storage Buildings Refrigeration/Monitoring/Control Panels
6 Potato Country • December 2023
CROP INPUTS FUNGICIDES
FERTILIZERS & GROWTH PROMOTERS
Bayer
Innovak Global
Crop Vitality
(800) 525-2803 www.cropvitality.com CaTs calcium thiosulfate liquid fertilizer
1716 Montana Ave. El Paso, TX 79902 (805) 443-1330 or Walt Grigg (509) 952-7558 www.innovakglobal.com info@innovakglobal.com
JH Biotech, Inc.
Fontelis fungicide,Tanos fungicide, Vertisan fungicide, Bexfond biological fungicide (OMRI)
Diamond K Gypsum
Diamond K Gypsum is the industry leader in solution grade gypsum, sulfate of potash and other key nutrients for potato growers in North America.
ICL
Dan Tollefson (612) 270-2024 Dan.Tollefson@icl-group.com www.icl-growingsolutions.us
Soluble, easily-absorbed, and costeffective, Polysulphate contains four key plant nutrients in a single application. Through gradual release of S (19.2% S), K (14% K2O), Mg (3.6% Mg) and Ca (12.2% Ca) – all in sulfate form – Polysulphate is less prone to leaching. Innovative and highly versatile, this natural mineral can be applied in the Fall or the Spring. Polysulphate is suitable alone or in blends.
Corteva Agriscience Indianapolis, IN www.corteva.us
Innovation for a greener earth
Tom Tankersley Sales Manager tom@diamondkgypsum.com
Luna, Velum Rise
Nutri-Cal: The calcium solution
4951 Olivas Park Dr. Ventura, CA 93003 (805) 650-8933 info@jhbiotech.com
1720 S Red Hills Dr Richfield, UT 84701 (435) 896-8870 www.diamondkgypsum.com
800 North Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63167 (866) 99-BAYER www.CropScience.Bayer.us
Syngenta
Customer Center 1-866-SYNGENTA www.SyngentaUS.com/Potatoes Elatus and Orondis fungicides
Redox
130 S 100 W Burley, ID 83318 (208) 678-2610 www.redoxgrows.com
Vive Crop Protection
Redox Bio-Nutrients focuses on sustainable plant nutrition. Each Redox Bio-Nutrients product has been scientifically developed to address specific plant needs in four key areas: Abiotic Stress Defense, Soil Health, Root Development and Nutrient Efficiency.
AZteroid FC 3.3 fungicide and AZterknot conventional + biological fungicide
www.vivecrop.com 208-406-4889 jadamson@vivecrop.com
HERBICIDES Corteva Agriscience
Rovensa Next
2788 S. Maple Ave. Fresno, CA 93725 www.rovensanext-na.com
Indianapolis, IN www.corteva.us Matrix herbicide
INSECTICIDES PESTICIDES FUMIGANTS
NANOCAL sub-micronized calcium
Bayer
800 North Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63167 (866) 99-BAYER www.CropScience.Bayer.us Movento, Velum Prime PotatoCountry.com
7
2024 Buyers’ Guide
CROP INPUTS INSECTICIDES PESTICIDES FUMIGANTS (CONT.)
NEMATICIDES Bayer
800 North Lindbergh Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63167 (866) 99-BAYER www.CropScience.Bayer.us
Corteva Agriscience
Indianapolis, IN www.corteva.us
Transform insecticide, Vydate C-LV insecticide/nematicide, Delegate WG insecticide, Entrust SC insecticide (OMRI)
Teleos Ag Solutions (833) 679-1942 www.teleosag.com
Velum Rise
Corteva Agriscience
TELONE™ II Soil Fumigant
Indianapolis, IN www.corteva.us
Trident Ag Products Nichino America, Inc.
4550 Linden Hill Road, Suite 501 Wilmington, DE 19808 (888) 740-7700 www.nichino.net Torac insecticide
Vydate C-LV insecticide/ nematicide, Salibro nematicide
PO Box 1909 Woodland, WA 98674 (360) 225-3588 www.StrikeFumigants.com Strike Fumigant
Vive Crop Protection
www.vivecrop.com 208-406-4889 jadamson@vivecrop.com
NovaSource Crop Protection Products
Vive Crop Protection
Bifender FC insecticide, and Viloprid FC 1.7 insecticide
www.vivecrop.com 208-406-4889 jadamson@vivecrop.com Averland FC nematicide
(800) 525-2803 www.novasource.com
Sectagon-42 and Sectagon-K54 fumigants
Our isolated northern location along with our group of 10 experienced growers have been producing exceptional seed potatoes with increased energy and the lowest possible disease levels for over 60 years. Our longevity and historical performance have made us a valued resource and seed potato supplier to growers across North America and the world. With over 100 varieties including main crop and specialty selections, we invite you to give us a call to discuss how we can help you make this growing season the best one yet.
Contact us to discuss how we can help make this year’s crop the best it can be.
Toll Free: 1 (800) 362–9791
(780) 447-1860 • darcyo@epg.ab.ca Edmonton Potato Growers 12220 – 170 Street, Edmonton, AB T5V 1L7 8 Potato Country • December 2023
EQUIPMENT BAGGING & PACKAGING Ellips USA P.O. Box 601 Wenatchee, WA 98807 (206) 915-4926 john.albert@ellips.com www.ellips.com
Internal defects have nowhere to hide with world-leading Ellips TrueSort™ technology. It precisely analyses the internal quality of each potato and detects a multitude of defects at incredible speed such as internal browning, flecking, glazing, freeze damage, dry matter, hollow hearts and more.
GREENTRONICS LTD.
Rietveld Equipment
4067 E. 4000 N. Road Bourbonnais, IL 60914 (815) 936-9800 john@rietveldequipment.com www.rietveldequipment.com Distributor for Allround, Upmann, Meconaf, Taneco, IPLA and INTEC
Van Doren
East Wenatchee 10 NE Cascade Ave East Wenatchee, WA 98802 (509) 886-1837 www.vandorensales.com Custom Produce Handling Solutions
SYMACH Palletizers
315 27th Ave NE Minneapolis MN 55418 (612) 760-8864 marco.maljaars@bwpackagingsystems.com www.symach.nl/en/ Specialists in potato palletizing, pallet wrapping, and conveying systems
75 Arthur Street North Elmira, ON N3B 2A1 (519) 669-4698 www.greentronics.com
Yakima, WA 1211 Alder St #100 Union Gap, WA 98903 (509) 469-9006 Grand Rapids, MI 5311 Plainfield Ave. NE Ste. A Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (616) 316-3980 Van Doren North Inc. 120 Carion Rd Kelowna, BC V4V 2K5, Canada (778) 480-6880
RiteWeight In-line Conveyor System
Kerian Machines P.O. Box 311 Grafton, ND 58237 (701) 352-0480 sales@kerian.com www.kerian.com Kerian Speed Sizer
ThorPack
W6788 5th Avenue Road Bryant, WI 54418 (715) 627-7333 www.thorpack.com Adjustable automatic master potato baler
PotatoCountry.com
9
2024 Buyers’ Guide
EQUIPMENT Milestone
BAGGING & PACKAGING (CONT.) Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions Inc.
North America Sales & Service Center Visitors: 5804 Road 90 Suite D Pasco, WA 99301 Mail: 5426 North Road 68 Suite D122 Pasco, WA 99301 (509) 531-7350 info@verbruggenusa.com www.verbruggen-palletizing.com Verbruggen is a worldwide supplier of palletizing, wrapping and product handling solutions for bags, crates and cartons.
Yakima Label
925 N. 5th Ave Yakima, WA 98902 (509) 955-8400 josh@yakimalabel.com www.yakimalabel.com
Antigo, WI 1804 Edison St Antigo, WI 54409 (800) 253-4737 volmcompanies.com Idaho Falls, ID 3721 W 65th S Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 524-0600 Pasco, WA 5702 Industrial Way Ste 101 Pasco, WA 99301 (509) 547-3437 Fresno, CA 3440 S East Ave Ste 104 (800) 253-4737 Brantford, Ontario 173 Garden Ave Brantford, Ontario N3S 0A7 (905) 648-7300 Monte Vista, CO 1100 S County Rd 3 E Monte Vista, CO 81144 (719) 852-5315 10 Potato Country • December 2023
PLANTERS PLANTING
Custom packaging labels
COVERS E-Z Tarp
6 South 1000 West Blackfoot, ID 83221 (208) 684-3734 www.ez-tarp.com
The automatic truck tarper
HARVESTERS HARVESTING Volm Companies
395 West Hwy 39 Blackfoot, ID 83221 (800) 574-1852 www.Milestone-Equipment.com
GREENTRONICS LTD.
75 Arthur Street North Elmira, ON N3B 2A1 (519) 669-4698 www.greentronics.com
RiteTrace automated track and trace system. Records and tracks loads from known field locations to known storage locations. Included HarvestView software generates Field and Bin maps with reports by load, field, and date. Integrates with Greentronic’s RiteYield yield monitor, specially developed for root crop and vegetable harvesters. Both systems are available to run on displays from John Deere and Trimble, allowing users to view a yield map and other details in real time. Free demo program.
Harriston-Mayo
Hermiston: (844) 261-0508 Pasco: (509) 544-9030 www.HarristonMayo.com
Lockwood Manufacturing (800) 247-7335 www.lockwoodmfg.com
Planting, Handling, and Harvesting Equipment
Lockwood Manufacturing (800) 247-7335 www.lockwoodmfg.com
Planting, Handling, and Harvesting Equipment
Monosem Inc.
1001 Blake St. Edwardsville, KS 66111 (913) 438-1700 www.monosem-inc.com Custom Planters Built-to-Order
SCALES / WEIGHING
GREENTRONICS LTD. 75 Arthur Street North Elmira, ON N3B 2A1 (519) 669-4698 www.greentronics.com
RiteWeight in-line conveyor system
Rietveld Equipment
4067 E. 4000 N. Road Bourbonnais, IL 60914 (815) 936-9800 john@rietveldequipment.com www.rietveldequipment.com Distributor for Allround, Upmann, Meconaf, Taneco, IPLA, and INTEC
EQUIPMENT SEED CUTTERS SEED TREATERS
USED EQUIPMENT
All Star Manufacturing & Design LLC
All Star Manufacturing & Design LLC
1557 South SandHill Road Orem, UT 84058 (801) 225-4180 www.allstarmfgllc.com
1557 South Sand Hill Road Orem, UT 84058 (801) 225-4180 www.allstarmfgllc.com
Milestone
Harriston-Mayo
395 West Hwy 39 Blackfoot, ID 83221 (800) 574-1852 www.Milestone-Equipment.com
TILLAGE R & H Machine
115 Roedel Avenue Caldwell, ID 83605 (800) 321-6568 rh@rhmachine.com www.rhmachine.com Long-wearing chrome alloy
TRUCKS & TRAILERS Spud Equipment
Bruce: (208) 390-5920 Evan: (208) 757-8481 Max: (701)740-7574 www.SpudEquip.com
7533 S. Federal Way Boise, ID 83716 (800) 235-6577 www.trinitytrailer.com
Manufacturing the EagleBridge™ and EagleBed™ for 50 years.
Fully automated tarp installs easily and is completely operational from the cab of your truck. Visit our web site and view videos and photos. Learn how convenient we can make your hauling. Designed to make covering and uncovering truck loads safer, faster, and easier.
Hermiston: (844) 261-0508 Pasco: (509) 544-9030 www.HarristonMayo.com
Lockwood Manufacturing (800) 247-7335 www.lockwoodmfg.com
Planting, Handling, and Harvesting Equipment
Milestone
395 West Hwy 39 Blackfoot, ID 83221 (800) 574-1852 www.Milestone-Equipment.com
6 South, 1000 West • Blackfoot, ID 83221 Email: atsuk@live.com
Streich and Associates, Inc.
Spud Equipment
Bruce: (208) 390-5920 Evan: (208) 757-8481 Max: (701)740-7574 www.SpudEquip.com
Trinity Trailer MFG., Inc. Trinity Trailer MFG., Inc.
The Automatic Truck Tarper
7533 S. Federal Way Boise, ID 83716 (800) 235-6577 www.trinitytrailer.com
Manufacturing the EagleBridge™ and EagleBed™ for 50 years.
All Varieties • Virus Tested Generation II & III Montana Seed Potatoes Specializing in:
Russet Burbank, Umatilla and Clearwater Modern seed potato facilities Environmentally controlled storage
Steve Streich • 406-253-2276 Paul Streich • 406-253-0642 www.montanaseedpotatoes.com
955 Columbia Falls Stage • Kalispell, MT 59901 spudtruck@montanasky.net PotatoCountry.com
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2024 Buyers’ Guide
MISC. AUCTIONEERS Rivers West Auction Company 35333 Detwiler Road Arlee, Montana 59821 (406) 249-1767 www.riverswestauction.com
CONSULTING LABS
Potato Inspections Ag World Support Systems PO Box 1696 Moses Lake, WA 98837 (509) 765-0698 www.AgInspections.com
The Leader In Ag Inspection Services
Stukenholtz Laboratory Inc.
P.O. Box 353, 2924 Addison Ave. E Twin Falls, ID 83301 (208) 734-3050; (800) 759-3050 www.stukenholtz.com
12 Potato Country • December 2023
PARTS
FINANCE Noffsinger
Trinity Capital
7533 S. Federal Way Boise, ID 83716 (833) 659-2203 www.mytrinitycapital.com Flexible equipment financing
IRRIGATION Skone Irrigation & Supply 2051 W. 1st Warden, WA 98857 (509) 349-7364 1304 E. Hillsboro Pasco, WA 99301 (509) 545-8420 www.SkoneIrrigation.com
Accurate Sprinkler Packages
500 6th Ave. P.O. Box 1150 Greeley, CO 80632 (970) 352-0463 or (800) 525-8922 Menahga, MN: (218) 564-5149 Filer, ID: (208) 326-4306 www.noffsingermfg.com
R & H Machine
115 Roedel Ave. Caldwell, ID 83605 (800) 321-6568 rh@rhmachine.com www.rhmachine.com Long-wearing chrome alloy parts
MISC. TRADE SHOWS & EVENTS Ag World Golf Classic
www.agworldgolf.com
Big Idaho Potato Harvest Meeting
Idaho Potato Commission (208) 334-2350 www.idahopotato.com
Eastern Idaho Ag Expo & Idaho Potato Conference (208) 939-6426 www.spectraproductions.com
International Crop Expo Grand Forks, ND (701) 792-1408 www.cropexpo.com
Montana Seed Potato Seminar
Potato Expo
NPC Washington Summit
Washington/Oregon Potato Conference
Missoula, MT Email: crstarkel@gmail.com Text: (406) 212-6651 www.mtseedpotatoseminar.com National Potato Council (202) 682-9456 www.potato-expo.com
Pacific Northwest Vegetable Association Conference & Trade Show Kennewick, WA (509) 585-5460 www.pnva.org
Potato Association of America Annual Meeting paaoffice@potatoassociation.org www.paaevents.org
National Potato Council (202) 682-9456 www.potato-expo.com
Kennewick, WA (509) 765-8845 www.potatoes.com/potatoconference
Washington Potato & Onion Association Convention P.O. Box 2247 Pasco, WA 99302 www.wapotatoonion.com
World Potato Congress Inc.
P.O. Box 40020, West Royalty PO Charlottetown, PE Canada C1E 0J2 www.potatocongress.org
SURGE HOPPER LOADING SYSTEM
WEB BELT SIZER TOTE BAG FILLERS
BRUSH WASHER
HERMISTON 541.567.0053 PASCO 509.544.9030 PotatoCountry.com
13
2024 Buyers’ Guide ALASKA For more information and a copy of the Alaska Certified Seed Potato Grower listings, contact: Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Division of Agriculture 1800 Glenn Highway, Ste. 12 Palmer, AK 99645 (907) 745-7200 or www.potatocountry.com/seed-ak
CALIFORNIA For more information and a copy of the current California Certified Seed Potato Applicant Directory, contact:
California Crop Improvement Association Parsons Seed Certification Center University of California One Shields Ave. Davis, CA 95691-8540 (530) 752-0544 ccia@ucdavis.edu, ccia.ucdavis.edu
COLORADO For more information on the Colorado program and a copy of the current Crop Directory and Field Inspection Readings, contact:
San Luis Valley Research Center 0249 East Rd. 9 N. Center, CO 81125 (719) 754-3496 slvctr@colostate.edu potatoes.colostate.edu www.coloradocertifiedpotatogrowers. com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-co
Colorado Certified Potato Growers Association
P.O. Box 267 Monte Vista, CO 8114 Lyla Davis: (719) 274-5996 lyla@ColoradoCertifiedPotatoGrowers.com Grower List: www.potatocountry.com/seed-co 14 Potato Country • December 2023
SEED IDAHO Copies of the Idaho Certified Potato Seed Grower Directory, containing field readings and other important information, may be obtained by contacting: Idaho Crop Improvement Association 1680 Foote Drive Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 522-9198 Meridian office: (208) 884-8225 www.idahocrop.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-id
Arnold Farms
10308 N. Hwy 32 Felt, ID 83424 (208) 456-2874 Jeremy: (208) 313-2875 Eric: (208) 313-5422 office@arnoldseed.com www.arnoldseed.com Varieties: Russet Burbank, Norkotah (278, 296, Jorde), Clearwater, Teton Russet, Ranger, Northwest Norkotah (111, 218)
MAINE For more information and a copy of the State of Maine Seed Certification Book:
Seed Certification Division of Animal & Plant Health 744 Main Street, Ste. 1 Presque Isle, ME 04769 (207) 769-5061 flannery@mainepotatoes.com www.mainepotatoes.com Maine potato dealer list: www.potatocountry.com/seed-me
MICHIGAN For more information and a copy of the Michigan Certified Seed Potatoes Crop Year Directory, contact: Michigan Seed Potato Assoc. P.O. Box 1865 Gaylord, MI 49734 (989) 732-4433 jwamspa@gmail.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-mi
MINNESOTA For more information and a copy of the current Minnesota Certified Seed Potato Directory, contact: Seed Potato Certification Office 312 4th Ave. NE East Grand Forks, MN 56721 (218) 773-4956 www.mda.state.mn.us or www.potatocountry.com/seed-mn
MONTANA For a copy of the Montana Certified Seed Potato Directory, including certification rules and regulations, contact:
Dr. Nina Zidack, director Seed Potato Certification P.O. Box 172060 MSU-Bozeman Bozeman, MT 59717-2060 (406) 994-3150 potatocert@montana.edu www.montanaspud.org or www.potatocountry.com/seed-mt
Buyan Ranch Inc.
242 Bivens Creek Rd. Sheridan, MT 59749 Bill: (406) 842-5142 Cell: (406) 596-5142 Marcus: (406) 596-7353 Varieties: Umatilla (G2 & G3), Clearwater Russet (G2 & G3)
Droge Farms Inc.
7590 Stagecoach Trail Rd. Manhattan, MT 59741 Glenn: (406) 282-7588 Vern: (406) 282-7580 Tim’s cell: (406) 539-7200 Glenn’s cell: (406) 580-7588 Vern’s cell: (406) 539-6586 gdroge@littleappletech.com vpdroge@gmail.com Varieties: Alturas, Clearwater, Burbank, Teton Russet
Kerian SPEED SIZER
PVX GIII
Sorts Potatoes By Size Quickly And Accurately
Proven for use in: Reds, Russets, Round Whites, Gold Rush and more Potato Sizing Video Now Available:
www.kerian.com
SEED INC.
l RUSSET BURBANK l RANGER RUSSET
l On-farm tissue culture laboratory and greenhouse facility for nuclear seed production l 4 year rotation on clean fields l Strict sanitation program throughout l Modern storage and handling facilities l Rigorous Spray Program
We are dedicated to providing you with consistent high quality, high yielding seed that you can depend on year after year. You are always welcome to visit our farm. Let us show you what our program can do for you.
GENTLE: Grades by size without damaging potatoes ACCURATE: Precisely grades potatoes of all shapes and varieties FAST: Thirteen standard models custom-designed to meet your needs sort from 1000 lb/hr to 150,000 lb/hr
SIMPLE: Effective but simple design provides a rugged, low cost, low maintenance machine at a high value to our customers. It can even be used in the field!
KERIAN MACHINES INC. 1709 Hwy 81 S, PO Box 311, Grafton, ND USA 58237
701-352-0480 • sales@kerian.com
David
Dan Tim
Tim Dan
Pat
Dan, Dave, Pat and Tim Lake
(406) 253-3638 (office), (406) 676-2175 (fax) e-mail - spudman@ronan.net 35822 Spring Creek Road l Ronan, MT 59864
Fax 701-352-3776
PotatoCountry.com
15
2024 Buyers’ Guide Kimm Seed Potatoes
6140 Kimm Rd. Manhattan, MT 59741 (406) 282-7592 Bill’s cell: (406) 580-7592 Varieties: Russet Burbank, Clearwater, Umatilla
Lake Seed Inc.
35822 Spring Creek Rd. Ronan, MT 59864 Dan: (406) 253-3638 Dave: (406) 261-4432 Pat: (406) 253-3284 Tim: (406) 253-3689 Warehouse: (406) 676-2174 Varieties: Russet Burbank, Ranger Russet
Schutter Seed Farm Inc. 3627 Wooden Shoe Rd. Manhattan, MT 59741 cell: (406) 539-6125,
Varieties: Russet Burbank, Umatilla, Mountain Gem, Clearwater
Streich & Associates Inc.
6955 Columbia Falls Stage Kalispell, MT 59901 Steve Streich: (406) 253-2276 Paul Streich: (406) 253-0642 www.montanaseedpotatoes.com spudtruck@montanasky.net Varieties: Russet Burbank, Umatilla, Clearwater
SEED NEBRASKA For more information and a copy of the current Nebraska Certified Seed Potato Directory, contact:
Potato Certification Association of Nebraska P.O. Box 339/100 Depot St. Alliance, NE 69301 (308) 762-1674 www.nebraskapotatoes.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-ne
CSS Farms
CSS Farms, LLC 5911 2nd Ave W Kearney, NE 68847 www.cssfarms.com
NEW YORK For more information and a copy of the New York Certified Seed Potato Crop Directory, contact: New York Seed Improvement Project 103C Leland Lab Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853 (607) 255-9869 nysip@cornell.edu or www.potatocountry.com/seed-ny
NORTH DAKOTA For more information and a copy of the North Dakota Seed Potato Directory: North Dakota State Seed Department P.O. Box 5257 Fargo, ND 58105 (701) 231-5400 seed.nd.gov or www.potatocountry.com/seed-nd
16 Potato Country • December 2023
OREGON For a directory of Oregon certified seed potato growers, including Oregon seed potato certification standards, contact: Oregon Seed Certification Service 31 Crop Science Building Oregon State University Corvallis, OR 97331-3003 (541) 737-4513 osu-cert@oregonstate.edu seedcert.oregonstate.edu/potatoes or www.potatocountry.com/seed-or
WASHINGTON For a copy of the current Washington Certified Seed Potato Directory, including field readings, contact: Washington State Seed Potato Commission P.O. Box 286 Lynden, WA 98264 (360) 354-4670 www.waseedpotato.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-wa
Dick Bedlington Farms
8497 Guide Meridian Rd Lynden, WA 98264 (360) 354-5264 www.bedlingtonfarms.com Varieties: Satina, Natascha, Belmonda, Chieftain, Ciklamen, Ruby Red (exclusive), Austrian Crescent, Amarosa, Banana, Violet Thumb (exclusive), Red Thumb, LaRatte, Purple Fiesta, Purple Majesty, Purple Petite, Purple Fiesta
WISCONSIN For more information and a copy of the Wisconsin Certified Seed Potato Directory, contact: Wisconsin Seed Potato Improvement Association P.O. Box 328 Antigo, WI 54409 (715) 623-4039 abcrockford@wisc.edu www.potatoseed.org or www.potatocountry.com/seed-wi
Box | RPC Filler
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AN DOREN East Wenatchee, WA +1.866.886.1837
Yakima, WA
+1.509.469.9006
Grand Rapids, MI
10 NE Cascade Ave. 98802
1211 W. Alder St. #100 98903
5311 Plainfield Ave NE 49525
+1.616.361.3980
PotatoCountry.com
17
2024 Buyers’ Guide
SEED NEW BRUNSWICK, CANADA
ALBERTA, CANADA For more information and a copy of the current Alberta Seed Potato Directory, contact: Potato Growers of Alberta c/o Stacey Bajema, Seed Coordinator 17507 Fort Rd. Edmonton, AB T5Y 6H3 (780) 415-2305 stacey@albertapotatoes.ca www.albertapotatoes.ca or www.potatocountry.com/seed-ab
Edmonton Potato Growers
12220 - 170 Street Edmonton, AB T5V 1L7 Darcy Olson: (800) 362-9791 or (780) 447-1860 darcyo@epg.ab.ca Grower List: www.potatocountry.com/seed-ed
Solanum International Inc. Hendrik Bakker Stony Plain, AB, T7Z 0B1 (780) 991-4302 inquire@solanum-int.com
Varieties: Agata, Alaska Bloom, Alaska Gold, Anouk, Austrian Crescent, Autumn Rose, Bonnata KWS, Bridget, Cerata KWS, Cerisa, Connect, Erika, Fontane, Gemson, Goldeye, Gourmandine, Jazzy, Krone, Lady Amarilla, Laperla, Lollipop, Melody, Mimi, Musica, Noya, Purple Magic, Queen Anne, Red Apple, Red Emmalie, Red Snapper, Red Thumb, River Russet, Rosara, Rosemarie, Snow Finger
BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA For more information and a copy of the current seed guide, contact:
Parkland Potato Varieties Paul Sawatzky Adam Nelubowich 2908 Ellwood Drive, SW Edmonton, AB T6X 0A9 (780) 435-3122 paul@parklandpotato.com; adam@parklandpotato.com www.parklandpotato.com
Varieties: Anouk, Arizona, Bellanita, Constance, Crimson Tide, Excellency, Roko, Rosagold, Volare, as well as open varieties
18 Potato Country • December 2023
BC Certified Seed Potato Growers Association c/o 5628 64th Street Delta, BC V4K 4E2 bcseedpotatoes.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-bc
MANITOBA, CANADA For more information and a copy of the current seed guide, contact:
Seed Potato Growers Association of Manitoba Leonard Rossnagel Box 545 Portage la Prairie, MB R1N 3B9 (204) 856-9171 leonard@manitobaseedpotatoes.com www.manitobaseedpotatoes.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-mb
For more information and a copy of the current New Brunswick Seed Potato Growers’ Certification List, contact: Potatoes New Brunswick P.O. Box 7878 succ. Main Grand Falls, NB E3Z 3E8 (506) 473-3036 gfpotato@potatoesnb.com www.nbseedpotatoes.com or www.potatocountry.com/seed-nb
P.E.I., CANADA For more information and a copy of the current Prince Edward Island Seed Potato Certification List and Grower Directory, contact: M.K. Sonier, Seed Coordinator Prince Edward Island Potato Board 90 Hillstrom Avenue Charlottetown, PEI C1E 2C6 (902) 892-6551 potato@peipotato.org www.peipotato.org or www.potatocountry.com/seed-pei
QUEBEC, CANADA For more information and a copy of the current Quebec Certified Seed Potatoes Directory, contact:
Les Producteurs de pommes de terre du Québec, 555, boul. Roland-Therrien, bureau 375 Longueuil, QC J4H 4E7 (450) 679-0530 www.pptq.ca
SASKATCHEWAN, CANADA For more information and a copy of the current Saskatchewan Seed Potato Directory, contact: Saskatchewan Seed Potato Growers Association Desseri Ackerman, Manager Box 386, Outlook, SK S0L 2N0 (306) 867-2078 sspga@sasktel.net www.sspga.ca or www.potatocountry.com/seed-sk
SHIPPERS
Seed Without Compromise
Gumz Farms
N570 6th Court Endeavor, WI 53930 Main Office (608) 981-2488 Onion Sales Doug Bulgrin Cell (608) 697-6775 doug@gumzfarmswi.com Potato Sales Tom Bulgrin Cell (608) 697-2137 tom@gumzfarmswi.com www.gumzfarmswi.com
Gumz Farms is a 4th Generation farm that is proud to offer Wisconsin grown yellow and red onions and red and yellow potatoes. We are your Midwest connection and pack produce year round.
Russett Burbank Ranger •Clearwater Teton Russet Norkotahs 278, 296 & Jorde Strain Northwest Norkotahs 111 & 218
www.ArnoldSeed.com
Jeremy: 208-313-2875 • Eric: 208-313-5422
10308 North Highway 32 • Felt, Idaho 83424 •office@arnoldseed.com
The Calcium Solution
Exclusive marketer of Green Giant fresh potatoes and onions.
THE KEY TO C G AL N KI C C
UN LO
1210 Pier View Drive Idaho Falls, ID 83402 (208) 524-1900 www.potandon.com
• Best tuber quality that distinguishes
M IU
Potandon Produce LLC
your product over competitors
• Reduces crop loss • Reduces Storage Bruises and Black Heart
Vee’s Produce
(320) 393-7066 www.veesproduce.com Potato Sales John Alstrup
john@veesproduce.com Servicing the US and Canada with year-round supply of potatoes. Also, featuring Brown Bag Potatoes, our Earth-friendly, 1-% compostable/ recyclable 5# potato package.
C.S.I. CHEMICAL CORP.
• Longer storage and shelf life • Increases tuber firmness and skin set • Highlights color, firmness and taste
Western States WALT GRIGG 509-952-7558 PotatoCountry.com
19
2024 Buyers’ Guide
STORAGE CHEMICALS FOR STORAGE Industrial Ventilation, Inc.
1,4GROUP, Inc.
2307 E. Commercial Street Meridian, ID 83642 (800) 881-0823 info@14group.com www.14group.com 1,4GROUP, Inc. is a leading supplier of innovative dormancy and sprout inhibiting products for the potato storage industry worldwide. In collaborative efforts with leading university researchers and private industry, we are dedicated to continued development of new and improved post-harvest chemical applications. From the harvest of your crop to your customer's dock, you'll find a complete family of complimentary treatments that protect the quality and condition of your potatoes. Visit our new website for more information.
Agri-Stor Companies (208) 733-7000 www.agri-stor.com
723 E. Karcher Road Nampa, ID 83687 (208) 463-6305 www.ivi-air.com
Restrain
Emily Merk Sales Manager North America (509) 318-0148 www.restrain.io Ethylene for post-harvest sprout control
CONSTRUCTION / STORAGE BUILDINGS Teton West
162 N. Yellowstone Hwy Rigby, ID 83442 (208) 356-7979 www.tetonwestconstruction.com Steel contruction solutions since 1973. Varco Pruden and Meridain dealers.
20 Potato Country • December 2023
Forte Humidifiers
(208) 970-0091 info@groupagproducts.com www.fortehumidifiers.com Forte Humidifiers are proven to be the most cost-effective solution for achieving ideal humidity levels in potato storages. While being offered at a fraction of the cost of the current market alternatives, Forte Humidifiers produce a superior fog quality and allow for more adaptable installations. All Forte Humidifiers have been carefully designed and constructed with materials that resist corrosion from water and acids, and thus can double to be used as chemical applicators.
(208) 356-7800 info@groupag.com www.groupag.com
(208) 793-0892 www.titansteelidaho.com
GroupAg is a full-service postharvest care company. GroupAg represents and distributes the following:1,4Group, Decco, Biosafe Systems, BTU Ventilation Products, Forte Humidifiers, JTS Refrigeration, A-tec Indirex, Caldwell/Chief
Agri-Star Storage Control Panel with App Gellert Ventilation and Refrigeration Equipment
Group Ag
Titan Steel
(208) 356-7800 info@groupag.com www.groupag.com
Agri-Stor Companies (208) 733-7000 www.agri-stor.com
Crop Protection Products and Services Sanitizer and Disinfectants, Storage Treatments
Group Ag
REFRIGERATION / MONITORING / CONTROL PANELS
Authorized builders for Varco-Pruden and Meridian
GroupAg is a full-service postharvest care company. GroupAg represents and distributes the following:1,4Group, Decco, Biosafe Systems, BTU Ventilation Products, Forte Humidifiers, JTS Refrigeration, A-tec Indirex, Caldwell/Chief
Industrial Ventilation, Inc. 723 E. Karcher Road Nampa, ID 83687 (208) 463-6305 www.ivi-air.com
PRE-REGISTER P RE-REGISTER A AT T POTATOCONFERENCE.COM P OTATOCONFERENCE.COM FOR F OR O ONLY NLY $ $10. 10. P PAY AY $ $20 20 A AT T THE T HE D DOOR OOR
JANUARY J ANUARY 2 23-25, 3-25, 2 2024 024 KENNEWICK, K ENNEWICK, W WA A PotatoCountry.com
21
Verbruggen
Palletizing Solutions Story and photos by Denise Keller, Editor
A
trip home from a summer field day created the perfect excuse for a pit stop in Pasco, Washington, where Verbruggen Palletizing Solutions has operated its U.S. sales and service center for the last decade. Founded in the Netherlands in 1991, the company specializes in palletizing systems for boxes, bags, crates and more. The combination of Dutch innovation coupled with stateside service, parts and support have helped the company grow through the years, employees say.
In 2013, Verbruggen opened the sales and service location in Pasco to better serve its North American customers. In the last 10 years, the U.S. operation has increased by more than five times its initial size, and a U.S.-based staff of two now numbers nearly 30, including service technicians, parts workers, administrative support and a sales team. Verbruggen equipment is installed at approximately 400 customer locations in North America.
Balcom & Moe in Pasco, Wash., uses Verbruggen’s VPM-VHV palletizer with a multi-level accumulation system to save floor space and maximize the potential of the palletizer.
22 Potato Country • December 2023
Gabriel Writer, a Verbruggen field service technician, uses a touchscreen control to change the stacking pattern of a palletizer.
Boxes make their way up a spiral conveyor to the accumulation conveyor and palletizer. Verbruggen’s VPM-10 can stack up to 30 units per minute.
Find out the unique appeal of Idaho potatoes, and the agronomic keys to success for grower Blake Matthews, in this episode of the Redox Grows Podcast:
Scan the QR code to listen to the Podcast
redoxgrows.com @redoxgrows Contact us for more information at (208) 678-2610
PotatoCountry.com
23
VERBRUGGEN
A Balcom & Moe employee removes a pallet of stacked boxes from the conveyor.
From left, Verbruggen employees Valerie Long, Gabriel Writer, Marco van der Heide and Jose Benitez visit a packing shed during the installation of a new palletizer.
24 Potato Country • December 2023
PLANTERS
2020 Checchi Magli 4 row used, but like new 1997 Double L 854 36” 4 row semi mount 2002 Kverneland 3300 Cup 6-row, 36” Pull type, Hyd. drive 2013 Spudnik 8069 bed planter 9 units in 6 row pull Type 2008 Spudnik 8080 Pull type cup, 8 row, 36” 2008 Spudnik 8060 mech drive, 6 row, 36” 2007 Spudnik 8060 hyd. Drive, 36”
SEED CUTTERS
2017 Milestone 6020 60” 3ph 1994 Milestone model 60” 230 volt 3ph 2000 Milestone model 6020 230 volt 3ph w/ portable chip conveyor
TREATERS
2016 Excel 10” liquid and dry treater 230 V 3ph 1991 Better Built CDT10- 8” Cannon Duster 1994 Better Built CDT10- 8” Cannon Duster 2005 Milestone MSLT42” Liquid Treater
WATER DAMMERS/ POWER HILLER
2018 Ag Engineering Dammer diker 6 row 36” 2019 Ag Vantage 8 row 36” 2014 Logan 8 row Yield Pro 36” folding wings Water Dammer Milestone 6 row Water Saver 36” spacing 2000 Struik 4ZF90 Inter Row Power Hiller 4 row 36”
PILERS
1998 Double L 831 36” x 49’ Belted chain, remote 3ph 1996 Double L 831 36” x 49’ Belt Chain, remote 3ph 1993 Double L 811 30” x 49’ All belt 3ph 1996 Double L 831 36” x 49’ All belt 3ph 1990 Double L 813 30” x 49’ Belt chain 3ph 1998 Milestone 36”x 48’ 3ph 1991 Spudnik 550 36” x 48’ Belt chain, remote 3ph 1987 Spudnik 550 30” x 48’ Belt Chain, remote, 3ph 1987 Spudnik 550 30” x 48’ all belt, 3ph
SCOOPERS
2014 Mayo model 180 30” 230 Volt 3ph 1990 Spudnik 100 24” 3ph 1982 Spudnik 100 24” 3ph
TRUCKS
CROSSOVERS/WINDROWERS 2015 Double L 6560 36” bed 6 row 2017 Double L 6540 36” bed 4 row 2009 Double L 951 34” bed 4row 1996 Double L 851 36” bed 4 row 2017 Lockwood 554 36” bed 4 row LH 2021 Spudnik 6140 36” bed 4 row RH 2019 Spudnik 6140 34” rows R&L discharge 2007 Spudnik 6140 36” bed 4 row RH 2005 Spudnik 6140 36” bed 4 row 2004 Spudnik 6140 36” bed 4 row RH 2004 Spudnik 6140 36” bed 4 row LH
HARVESTERS
2020 Double L 973 36” bed 4 row 2018 Double L 7340 36” bed 4 row 2014 Lockwood 674 36” bed 4 row 2004 Spudnik 6400 4 row 34” 2001 Spudnik 5625 36” bed 2 row
2004 Kenworth W900 M11 Cum 350hp 15speed Tran. Spudnik 26’ bed 1998 Volvo 13spd cummins 400hp Tri Drive, Spudnik 22’ Bed
STINGERS
BULK BEDS/BOXES/ SELF UNLOADING
New in stock: 2023 Logan 42” x 100’ 230 V 3ph 1996 STI 30” x 70’ 3ph Tel. Conv.
1994 Double L model 801 20’ Elec. 1982 Double L model 801 20’ Elec. 1985 Logan 20B Electric 20’ 1992 Spudnik 2100 20’ Electric 1990 Spudnik 2100 20’ Electric 1990 Spudnik 2100 26’ Electric 1986 Spudik 2000 20’ electric
NOT COMPLETE LIST CALL OR CHECK
SPUDEQUIP.COM
DIRT ELIMINATOR ONLY
2000 Double L Model 878 80” BC hopper, fingers, BC picking table 3ph. 1997 Double L 807 Dirt Elim. 62” Belt Chain feed, Urethane finger rollers, belt table, 3ph 2017 Milestone 96” 480 3phase 1997 Spudnik 995 72” dirt elim, 480 volt 3ph, finger table, peg belt, spit picking 1990 Spudnik 950 72” 230 volt 3phase
ROCK/CLOD/AIR ELIMINATORS
2013 Harriston 4240 Clod Hopper 3ph 2013 Harriston 3240 Clod Hopper 3ph 2011 Harriston 3240 Clod Hopper 3ph 2001 Harriston 200 Clod Hopper 1ph
EVEN FLOWS/ SURGE HOPPER
2015 Double L 832 36” BC with fingers 2007 Double L 833 30” Belt Chain only 2013 Logan STGT 36” Telescopic 230 V 3ph
2012 Double L 968 1000cwt 1992 Spudnik 1800 600cwt 3ph
CONVEYORS TELESCOPIC
1985 Spudnik model 1100 Tube loader 20’
CONVEYORS STRAIGHT
Spudnik Model 1205 30” x 40’ 3ph
SIZER ONLY
2006 Spudnik 925 72” 3phase 1998 Spudnik 925 72” 1ph 1996 Spudnik 925 72” 3phase
DIRT ELIMINATOR W/SIZER
DIRT TARE PILER MISC.
48” x 15’ Custom built Potato Brusher Shop built Tire roller w/ water tank, 6 row and 4 row Ace Roll over Hyd. Reset Plow 5 bottom 2020 Logan Barrel Washer for little potatoes Belly dump unloader attachment for Scooper Evenflows: 1200 cwt, 900 cwt, 400 cwt Greentronics Scale Kerian 60” sizer
2007 Spudnik 990 72” feeder, 84” dirt fingers, 84” sizing acorns, 84” sizing PREMIUM USED EQUIPMENT acorns, 36” split picking table 480 QUICK & RELIABLE PURCHASE Volt 3ph with VFD’s BRUCE: (208)390-5120 | BRUCEN@TRISTEELMFG.COM • EVAN: (208)757-8481 | EVANN@TRISTEELMFG.COM • MAX: (701)740-7574 | MAXW@TRISTEELMFG.COM
PotatoCountry.com
25
VERBRUGGEN Spiral conveyors offer a space-saving solution in systems with multiple levels of accumulation lines.
Verbruggen employees install a VPM-8 palletizer at Easterday Farms in Pasco, Wash. Verbruggen’s VPM-VHV palletizer precisely stacks a pallet of boxes, allowing for a more stable load and less product damage.
26 Potato Country • December 2023
JANUARY 10-11, 2024
Brought Broughttotoyou youbyby
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PotatoCountry.com
27
SPUD GROWER FARMS
The McCullough family grows 1,600 acres of russets in the San Luis Valley of Colorado. Pictured from left are Jeff, Colter, Kollyns and Holly McCullough. Courtesy photo
Making a Difference in the San Luis Valley By Helen Smith, Colorado Potato Administrative Committee
J
eff McCullough is committed to being an advocate. As a fourth-generation farmer, potato grower and San Luis Valley, Colorado native, he is a firm believer in the way of life that agriculture can offer. He has set ambitious goals for his own operation and was recently appointed to the Colorado Ag Commission. His roots in agriculture started with his great-grandfather, who began farming in the San Luis Valley in the late 1930s or early 1940s. The farm grew potatoes with a barley rotation. This practice was continued until the early 2000s, when a transition to cover crops instead of barley was made due to drought. Today, McCullough continues to grow approximately 1,600 acres of russets in the San Luis Valley, along with being a
28 Potato Country • December 2023
co-owner/operator of The Spud Seller, a warehouse that has been operating out of Monte Vista, Colorado, since 1987 with his father, Lynn.
Challenges
While he has a deep appreciation for agriculture and the San Luis Valley way of life, he also recognizes that there are significant challenges facing the community as a whole. He cites water and labor as being two of the most significant issues that growers are currently facing. Water is an issue that affects not only area producers, but the entire community. Due to the limited water supply from prolonged drought, San Luis Valley producers are adjusting their irrigation practices in order to help
replace their depletions to the unique aquifer system that lies beneath the Valley floor through an effort known as sub-districts. McCullough has set a goal on his own farm to put 20 percent more water back into the system than is used. This is a goal that has been met over the last five years. Each year, he begins with a water usage plan; he then makes adjustments according to how much attention certain sets of acreage may need. In addition, he has utilized a nematode reduction program that he believes has helped to improve the overall quality of the plants and soil. Additionally, McCullough is making efforts to address labor challenges within his own operation. At The Spud Seller, new technologies have been
implemented such as robotic palletizing. The result was a 50 percent reduction in manual labor. Other improvements at the warehouse include optical sorting and grading, which has also brought a significant increase in efficiency.
Collaboration
McCullough believes that producers in the area should not be afraid of change and moving to a new way of doing things. “There is such a big hole to fill. We’re going to have to think outside the box,” he says. He also believes that there is a need for producers to have openness and dialogue and a willingness to share conservation practices that are working. He sees collaboration as something that will be a crucial element to the success of agriculture in the San Luis Valley going forward. He also sees a need for livestock producers and conventional farmers to find solutions that will be beneficial for both sides. One way he sees that happening is through an increase of growing cover crops that benefit both practices. He hopes to be a voice for the San Luis Valley during his time on the Colorado Ag Commission. “We, as a community, need to find a way to come together and make sure that we can leave this valley in a place where it’s good for our kids and grandkids,” he said. McCullough is optimistic about the future of the San Luis Valley, noting that he has seen producers and other community members do amazing things. This includes his 12-year-old daughter, Kollyns, and 10-year-old son, Colter, who actively organize a backpack/ meals program for students who need assistance in the Monte Vista and Sargent school districts along with another family. The program has served 80,000 meals over the last four years and is looking to expand to other districts. McCullough remains hopeful that his children will continue to learn the value of hard work and that they make a difference going forward. He has confidence that dedication and innovation will continue to carry the San Luis Valley way of life forward.
Growing Quality Seed For 50 Years!
Left to right: Sid, John, Jonathan, Carl, Nick and Cliff.
LINE Selected:
Russet Burbank, Umatilla, Clearwater, Mountain Gem
Derived from Meristem Culture Very Uniform and High Producers Rigid Sanitation Program in Field and Storage Long Rotations on Isolated Fields Modern Air and Humidity Control in All Storages All available Seed Generation II & Generation III A beautiful, smooth crop
SCHUTTER SEED FARM 25 Wytana Rd., Manhattan, MT 59741 Sid: (406) 539-6478 John: (406) 580-6446 Nick: (406) 539-6125 Cliff: (406) 580-6818
PotatoCountry.com
29
DISEASE IDENTIFICATION QUIZ
Dr. Jeff Miller, a plant pathologist, is the president and CEO of Miller Research, Rupert, Idaho. He can be contacted by phone: (208) 531-5124; cell: (208) 431-4420; jeff@millerresearch.com
Just exactly how do you define a plant disease? How do you define a plant disorder? How are they similar and how are they different? For this quiz, can you tell the difference between a disease and a disorder? These four photos show internal tuber problems. Which represent disease, and which represent disorder?
A
B
D
C 30 Potato Country • December 2023
Answers Page 33
Sponsored by:
Listen on:
ThePotatoPodcast.com
Colorado Certified Potato Growers Association “Quality as High as our Mountains” RUSSET VARIETIES: Russet Norkotah S3 Russet Norkotah S8 Rocky Mountain Russet Silverton Russet Rio Grande Russet Canela Russet Mesa Russet Mercury Russet Fortress Russet Crimson King COLORED VARIETIES: Columbine Gold Colorado Rose Rio Colorado Red Luna Purple Majesty Masquerade Mountain Rose Vista Gold
Seed Growers: Zapata Seed Company Worley Family Farms SLV Research Center San Acacio Seed Salazar Farms Rockey Farms, LLC Pro Seed Price Farms Certified Seed, LLC Palmgren Farms, LLC Martinez Farms La Rue Farms H&H Farms G&G Farms Bothell Seed Allied Potato Colorado Certified Potato Growers Association P. O. Box 267 Monte Vista, CO 81144 ColoradoCertifiedPotatoGrowers.com Lyla@ColoradoCertifiedPotatoGrowers.com (719) 274-5996
Lorem ipsum
PotatoCountry.com
31
INSECT BIOLOGY QUIZ
This material is provided courtesy of Andy Jensen, Ph.D., Manager of the Northwest Potato Research Consortium. For more information, visit www.nwpotatoresearch.com.
Many of you may remember a teacher or college professor who included vague, open-ended questions on their exams. Annoying, right? To bring back those memories, here is another such question for you. All of the photos below represent a single common insect species associated with potatoes and other underground vegetables.
What can you tell me about this insect and its relationship to potatoes?
A
D
B
C 32 Potato Country • December 2023
Answers Page 35
KNOW YOUR DISEASE ANSWERS (FROM PAGE 30)
A plant disease is defined as the malfunctioning of plant cells and/or tissues that results from an interaction between a pathogen and the plant which leads to the development of symptoms. A plant disorder is the malfunctioning of plant cells and/or tissues that results from an interaction between an environmental factor and the plant which leads to the development of symptoms. Diseases and disorders are similar in that they both refer to a malfunctioning of the plant. The difference between the two is that diseases are caused by interactions with pathogens (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and nematodes), and disorders are caused by interactions with the environment (abiotic influences). In this quiz, Photos A, B and D are disorders. Photo C is a disease. Photo A is the disorder known as brown center. Brown center can begin when tubers are very small. Development of this disorder is influenced by temperature. Periods of cool soil temperatures (below 55 degrees Fahrenheit) during tuber initiation and early tuber bulking followed by rapid growth favors the development of this symptom. Uneven tuber growth causes cells to rupture and die, turning brown. Photo B is a disorder known as stem end discoloration or vascular necrosis. Symptoms like this can also be caused by potato leafroll virus (PLRV), Verticillium dahlia (cause of Verticillium wilt) or Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (cause of zebra chip). No definitive associations have been made for the cause of this disorder. Rapid death of green, healthy vines and high temperature stress or low soil moisture at vine killing have been associated with these symptoms. Photo C shows symptoms of infection by tobacco rattle virus. This is a disease caused by the interaction between the virus and the potato host and is called corky ringspot. This virus is vectored by the stubby root nematode feeding on potato roots. Photo D is the disorder known as hollow heart. Brown center and
hollow heart can be considered different phases of the same disorder and caused by uneven or fluctuating tuber growth, and brown center has been sometimes called incipient hollow heart. Uneven growth of the tuber causes dead cells to split apart, leaving a cavity in the tissue. Brown center can occur anytime during tuber development, and the location of the hollow heart in the tuber will tell you
when the stress occurred. Symptoms on the stem end resulted from early season stress, symptoms in the middle result from mid-season stress, and symptoms on the bud end result from late season stress. The fact that many disorders and diseases can look alike underscores the importance of performing the proper laboratory tests to verify the actual causal agent of any symptom.
Need stacking power?
Discover the ultimate potato stacking & palletizing solutions. Do you need the ability to accumulate boxes with multiple SKUs? Scan the QR to watch our flagship machine VPM-VHV stack pallets at blistering speeds or visit verbruggen-palletizing.com
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33
IN THE NEWS
Fox Packaging Hires Director of Sales
Jen Doxey has joined Fox Packaging as the company’s new director of sales. She is responsible for overseeing the sales operations of Fox Packaging and Fox Solutions and collaborating with the team in developing sales and service strategies that further the Fox brand. Doxey brings over 20 years of experience in the produce industry, with an emphasis on developing and executing strategic sales plans, building long-term customer relationships and leading highperforming teams. She comes to Fox from Giro Pack, where she served as the national sales manager for nearly eight years.
Washington Amends Seed Potato Rules
New rules are in place for seed potato growers in Washington state. The Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Isolation District and Quarantine Rule were revised based on a request from the Washington Seed Potato Commission. The changes include expanding the definition of “seed potatoes,” adding requirements for bacterial ring rot testing and a half dozen other amendments. Find the complete list at www.waseedpotato.com/ regulations.
Buyan Ranch
Some of Montana’s Finest Certified Seed Potatoes
POTATOEH Experience the vigour of the north. With colder winters and long summer days, Alberta Seed Potatoes are the best choice for a higher yielding potato crop. Ideal climate, profitable results. Check out the seed directory at
albertapotatoes.ca
34 Potato Country • December 2023
Umatilla (G2 & G3) Clearwater Russet (G2 & G3) Isolated Area • Strict Roguing & Sanitation Hawaii Seed Plot Tested • Virus Tested 242 Bivens Creek Road • Sheridan, MT 59749 Bill: 406-596-5142 • Marcus: 406-596-7353
KNOW YOUR INSECTS ANSWERS (FROM PAGE 32)
The insect involved is Eumerus strigatus, often referred to as the “onion bulb fly.” It is a common insect in potato producing areas, occasionally invading damaged or diseased tubers in the field and possibly in storage (it is found in stored tubers, but it is not clear when those tubers were infested). Photo A shows the typical appearance of a diseased tuber that contained numerous E. strigatus larvae.
Sponsored by:
Photo B shows the larvae; the orange protuberance on the tail end of one of the maggots is the opening of its breathing apparatus (called spiracles). The football-shaped object in Photo C is called a “puparium.” Many flies pass through the pupal stage inside the hardened skin of the final larval stage, and this is called a puparium. These maggots have been found in tubers straight from the field all the way through storage into spring.
Listen on: ThePotatoPodcast.com
Photo D is the adult onion bulb fly.
“A Truly Exceptional Potato
“
Queen Anne
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35
MARKET REPORT
Plentiful Potato Supply P
otato production has exceeded industry expectations in the major processing regions of North America. Europe’s 2023 potato crop is also expected to increase relative to the previous year. In this article, we explore the North American and European frozen processing potato supply situation and its potential impact on frozen product sales and consumption.
US Supply Situation
U.S. potato production (as of press time) is expected to increase by 9 to 10 percent relative to the 2022 crop. If realized, it would be the largest U.S. potato crop since 2000. In the Columbia Basin, production will likely exceed the 2022 crop by 3 to 4 percent. The yields and quality for later-harvested potatoes have been excellent. On the other hand, yields on earlier-harvested potatoes were lower than expected. Early harvesting occurred before the crop reached its full yield potential. Idaho growers planted 330,000 acres of potatoes this year, which is 35,000 acres more than they planted in 2022. Growers report that yields have been mixed. They have been exceptional in some fields, while others have produced average or below average yields. Overall, the state’s average yield is expected to be slightly above trend. If our forecast is accurate, Idaho’s production could exceed the 2022 crop by 22 to 24 percent. That would be Idaho’s largest potato crop on record.
Frozen processing supplies will also be plentiful in the Midwest processing states. Growers in Minnesota, North Dakota and Wisconsin are reporting above average yields for the 2023 crop. Midwest growers experienced some of the best harvest conditions in several years. Reports indicate that the 2023 crop is in good condition. Maine’s potato crop was in excellent condition early in the growing season. However, heavy rainfall during the late summer and harvest season negatively impacted the harvested area and quality of this year’s potato crop.
Canadian Supply Situation
Canada is expected to produce its largest potato crop on record. Bumper crops and expanded acreage in Alberta and Manitoba have resulted in an oversupply of potatoes for frozen processing. We expect combined production in Alberta and Manitoba to exceed the 2022 crop by 10 to 12 percent, even though growers destroyed several thousand acres of potatoes this year. In the eastern part of the country, production is expected to be down in Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick and Quebec. Crops in those provinces are likely to have more issues than usual with quality, size and storability. Recovery rates will be reduced due to low solids and other quality issues. Canadian processing potatoes could be moved from west to east to cover any supply gaps this year, as they have been in the past. In addition, U.S. fryers will not need to import processing potatoes from Canada this year. Overall, Canadian fryers should have more than enough raw product to run plants at capacity.
European Supply Situation
Growers in Belgium planted more potatoes this year than they did in 2022, while growers in Germany, the Netherlands and Poland reduced their planted area. France’s reported potato area is unchanged from a year ago. Current estimates are that the five major exporting countries planted a combined 36 Potato Country • December 2023
2.29 million acres of potatoes this year, 0.7 percent less than they planted in 2022, according to World Potato Markets, a European publication. Production estimates for Europe are variable. The EU’s MARS crop monitoring service expects yields to exceed 2022 levels in Belgium, Germany and France. However, they are projected to fall short of 2022 average yields in the Netherlands and Poland. Based on those acreage and yield estimates, the top five European exporting countries are expected to produce 781.7 million cwt of potatoes for the 2023 crop. That is 31.3 million cwt more than those countries produced in 2022, a 4.3 percent increase. Rain has slowed harvest progress across much of Europe. The challenging harvest conditions could negatively affect quality and reduce finished product recovery rates for the 2023 potato crop.
Impact on French Fry Sales and Consumption
Global French fry and other frozen product sales have been held back by raw product supply constraints during the past two years. That situation has reversed. Raw product supplies for both North American and European French fry plants will be up this year. North American frozen processors will have more than enough raw product to run plants at capacity. In addition, the quality of this year’s frozen processing potatoes appears to be excellent. Recovery rates have been above average. Global frozen product sales could increase substantially this year. North American fryers could expand domestic and export sales during the 2023-24 processing season. French fry imports have made up for the shortfall in domestic production during the past three years. This year’s imports, through August, totaled 2.15 billion pounds. Exports of French fries and other frozen products totaled 1.29 billion pounds during the same eight-month period, creating a trade deficit of 860.7 million pounds. That follows a 534.3 million pound trade deficit in 2022 and a 238.2
Situation million pound trade deficit in 2021. Buyers and consumers may have gotten used to European products. They may be hesitant to change suppliers, or products, unless there are quality or price benefits. Raw product supplies will not be a limiting factor for North American fryers this year. That may give them the opportunity to expand domestic sales and re-capture some of the global French fry market.
By Ben Eborn, Publisher, North American Potato Market News
KEY POINTS • Pacific Northwest processors will have more than enough potatoes to run plants at capacity this year, given the above-trend yields and acreage expansion in Idaho and the Columbia Basin. • Alberta and Manitoba have produced a surplus of frozen processing potatoes due to strong yields and increased acreage.
Jan. 10-11
• Frozen processing supplies in the Midwest states should be sufficient for local fry plant needs, while supplies could be tight in Maine and eastern Canada.
Potato Expo 2024
Austin Convention Center Austin, Texas www.potato-expo.com
• Potato production in the top five European French fry producing countries is expected to increase relative to the 2022 crop.
Jan. 17-18
• Global French fry sales could grow significantly during the next 12 months, given the raw product supply situation in both North America and Europe.
CALENDAR
Idaho Potato Conference and Ag Expo
Pond Student Union Building and Holt Arena Pocatello, Idaho Kristy Mayer,kristym@uidaho.edu
Editor’s note: To contact Ben Eborn, or to subscribe to North American Potato Market News (published 48 times per year), write or call: P.O. Box 176, Paris, ID 83261; (208) 525-8397; or email napmn@napmn.com.
Jan. 23-25
Washington-Oregon Potato Conference Three Rivers Convention Center Kennewick, Wash. www.potatoconference.com
Feb. 6-8
Southern Rocky Mountain Ag Conference Ski Hi Regional Event Center Monte Vista, Colo. www.agconferencesrm.com
Feb. 26-29
NPC Washington Summit
Washington Marriott at Metro Center Washington D.C. www.nationalpotatocouncil.org Editor’s note: To have your event listed, please email Denise Keller at editor@ columbiamediagroup.com. Please send your information 90 days in advance.
Agricultural Consulting & Testing • Soil Testing • Irrigation Scheduling • Feed Analysis • Contract Research • Tissue Testing • Pest Management
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37
IN THE NEWS POTATO GROWERS OF WASHINGTON
A Call for Conservative Planting in 2024 By Dale Lathim, Potato Growers of Washington
I
know it has been covered ad nauseum that we went from the shortest raw product supply situation in history to the longest during this last growing season. Keep in mind that this situation will not just go away when we plant the next crop.
ADVERTISER INDEX Agri-Stor ............................. 39 All Star ............................... 40 Arnold Seed........................ 19 Bayer .................................... 2 Buyan Ranch ...................... 34 Colorado Seed .................... 31 Dick Bedlington .................. 25 Edmonton Potato Growers ... 8 Greentronics....................... 31 Idaho Crop.......................... 12 IPC........................................ 5 Kerian................................. 15 Lake Seed ........................... 15 Lockwood ........................... 15 Mayo .................................. 13 Montana Seed ...................... 9 North Dakota Seed ............. 29 Nutri-Cal............................. 19 Potato Expo ........................ 27 Potato Growers of Alberta .. 34 Redox ................................. 23 Schutter Seed ..................... 29 Skone Irrigation .................. 36 Solanum ............................. 35 SpudEquip.com .................. 25 Streich & Assoc. ................. 11 Stukenholtz ........................ 37 The Potato Podcast Sponsored by Vive .........31, 35 Titan Steel .......................... 17 Trinity................................... 3 Van Doren Sales.................. 17 Verbruggen......................... 33 WA/OR Potato Conf. ........... 21 38 Potato Country • December 2023
There will most likely be a significantly larger than usual carryover of 2023 crop storage potatoes that will be processed next summer. This will displace some of the early crop volume and will undoubtedly reduce the number of contracted acres of all varieties throughout the Pacific Northwest. In the Columbia Basin, many growers for one processor have already been notified
yields truly were the new normal. Add to that all the growers who thought they were being sly by tying up some extra seed so they could quietly be one of the few who would have open potatoes to help fill the void. When yields returned to the pre-2021 normal, those extra acres created this situation. While I don’t expect the open acres scenario to be repeated this year as open
Do yourself and the industry a favor and be very, very conservative on the acres you plant for 2024. that they will have at least a 10 percent reduction in their volume for crop year 2024. Another processor has not announced what their volume will be, but has indicated that it will be down; it is just a matter of how much. Those growers who have not been told anything need to be very cautious about how many acres they plan to have in potatoes, as it is highly likely they could face even bigger reductions than those who have already been notified. In my previous column, I suggested growers plan on a 20-25 percent reduction in acres just to be safe. When I wrote that, the oversupply situation was just coming into focus. Now we know that it was even bigger than we feared and that tonnage well into six figures was disposed of throughout the Pacific Northwest. With that in mind, the already announced reductions in acreage will more likely than not be the smallest reductions at those companies who are not in expansion mode now. Historically, when an oversupply situation has occurred, it has taken two full crop years for supply and demand to level out. For whatever reason, things feel different this time, and it would not surprise me if this one lasts even longer. Part of the reason we are in this situation is that processors dealt with short crops in both 2021 and 2022. Not wanting to repeat that situation in 2023, they contracted heavier in case the lower
prices are expected to be well below the cost of production, the fear of lower yields still exists with some processors. And as such, I think it might take another year or two before they are comfortable returning to their previous contract positions. If this plays out the way I imagine, we will have a much smaller, but still larger than needed, raw product supply next fall. The other impact this supply situation will have is on pricing. Fortunately, the cost of production looks to be relatively stable. With contract acreage already being reduced, it takes away the only real leverage that any bargaining association has, which is reducing the supply of available acres that growers are willing to grow on the contract to less than what the processor is comfortable with. We are going to have a very tough time even holding the price flat in contract negotiations this year. If costs were going up significantly, there would be next to no chance of covering much of that increase. As an industry, this oversupply will be impacting all of us. The frozen segment has been proactive and tried to dispose of much of the excess at the end of harvest. But still, there will be enough extra potatoes looking for a market that it will impact us for the foreseeable future. Do yourself and the industry a favor and be very, very conservative on the acres you plant for 2024.
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