Potato Country May/June 2021

PotatoCountry.com • May-June 2021 Western focus. National impact.

Harvest Essentials

Advertiser Index Agri-Stor ............................................ 15 Ag World Golf ...................................... 2 Bayer - Luna ........................................ 3 Bayer - Velum ...................................... 9 Colorado Certified Potatoes ................ 8 Corteva - Delegate ............................ 11 Corteva - Vydate ................................ 31 Ferticell .............................................. 25 Greentronics ...................................... 17 Idaho Potato Commission ................... 5 Kerian ................................................ 24 Lockwood .......................................... 13 Micro-Trak .........................................26 Montana Certified Seed .....................22 Oro Agri .............................................32 Pirrung Auctions ................................27 Precision Pros Painting .....................10 QLF....................................................13 Skone Irrigation .................................28 Spud Equipment.com.........................19 Stukenholtz ........................................29 ThePotatoPodcast.com .....................14 Volm...................................................21 Western Trailers ................................14

Quality Control Why Plant New Varieties?

A Post-Pandemic Potato Market

There’s only one move

to checkmate .

For a winning potato season, you have to be strategic. You are not only combatting diseases like Early blight and White mold for this season’s crop, but also fighting them for seasons to come. With Luna Tranquility® fungicide, you get two different modes of action with rotational and tankmixing capabilities. So, fight diseases year in and year out with Luna Tranquility.

Learn more at LunaPotatoGamePlan.com.

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Not all products are approved and registered 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 product dealer or representative or U.S. EPA and your state pesticide regulatory agency for the product registration status in your state. Bayer, Bayer Cross, Luna,® and Luna Tranquility® 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. ©2021 Bayer Group. All rights reserved.

w w w . Po t a t o Co u n t r y . c o m

Vol. 37 No. 4

PO Box 333 Roberts, Idaho 83444 Phone: (208) 520-6461

Country Western focus. National impact.

Table of Contents

Contacts Dave Alexander ...........................dave@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com Publisher, Advertising

Denise Keller ..............................editor@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com Editor

Andy Jensen.......................................... www.nwpotatoresearch.com

May/June 2021

Insect Identification

Jeff Miller .....................................................jeff@millerresearch.com Disease Identification

Bruce Huffaker ................................................. napmn@napmn.com

6 Why Plant New Varieties?

8 Potatoes USA Elects Leadership

Market Report

Dale Lathim ............................................................... dale@pgw.net

Potato Growers of Washington

Brian Feist ...................................brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com

Potatoes USA Annual Meeting

10 Virtually Advocating for a Brighter Future at the 2021 Potato D.C. Fly-In National Potato Council

Operations Manager, Advertising

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.

12 IPC CEO Announces Retirement

ADVERTISING For information about advertising rates, mechanics, deadlines, copy submission, mailing, contract conditions and other information, call Dave Alexander at (208) 520-6461 or email dave@PotatoCountry.com.

14 Potatoes are America’s Favorite Vegetable

SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION U.S. $24 per year / Canada $40 per year / Foreign $80 per year Subscriptions can be entered online at www.potatocountry.com or call (503) 724-3581.

Email address changes/corrections to brian@ColumbiaMediaGroup.com or send to Potato Country, PO Box 333, Roberts, ID 83444.

Idaho Potato Commission Potatoes USA

16 Harvest Essentials

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.

Buyers' Guide

It is produced by Columbia Media Group, PO Box 333, Roberts, ID 83444

20 Quality Control

Copyright 2021. 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. For information on reprints call (208) 520-6461.

Focusing on Quality of Fresh Pack Potatoes

28 A Post-Pandemic Potato Market

Editorial Board

Market Report

Gary Roth

Chris Voigt

Idaho Potato Commission president and CEO Frank Muir (right), pictured here after running the Famous Idaho Potato Marathon, has announced plans to retire. Find out what he considers the greatest achievements of his tenure on page 12.

On The Cover The VACS Mobile from Lockwood Manufacturing separates debris from spuds.

Read more about this equipment and other “Harvest Essentials” in our Buyers’ Guide on pages 16-18.

4

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May / June 2021

Executive Director

Executive Director

Washington State Potato Commission

Oregon Potato Commission

(509) 765-8845

(503) 239-4763

Departments 15 19 22 23 24 26 30 30

Calendar Spud Toons Insect Quiz Disease Quiz New Products In the News PGW Column Advertiser Index

Nina Zidack

Frank Muir

Jim Ehrlich

Montana Seed Potato Certification

Idaho Potato Commission

Colorado Potato Administrative Committee

Director

(406) 994-3150

President/CEO

(208) 334-2350

President/CEO

(719) 852-3322

Who You Calling A Side Dish

idahopotato.com

With so many people stuck at home and stocking up on Idaho® Potatoes these days, it’s only natural they’d be looking for interesting new ways to serve them.

So now, we’re giving them some.

Our new national TV commercial moves our potatoes to the center of the plate and

provides consumers with inspiration for a whole new way to serve them—as the main course. Look for the spot airing on stations including CNN, Fox News, The Food Network, Headline News, Hallmark and more. And help spread the word.

Idaho® Potatoes—they’re more than just a side dish.

Why Plant New Varieties?

By Rhett Spear, University of Idaho

O

ne of the earliest experiences I had with agriculture was I dealt with until later in life. Unsurprisingly, the only potato helping my grandparents harvest fruit from their orchard. variety I had heard of prior to working in the potato industry There was fruit on all parts of the tree. Some of the fruit was Russet Burbank, so imagine my surprise to discover required a ladder to reach, but quite a bit could be reached from that several universities and private companies devote entire the ground. This low-hanging fruit was the easiest to reach and programs to the study and development of new potato varieties was often the first fruit to be harvested because there was no that not only are less intensive to grow but are more resistant to need for complicated harvesting techniques or a environmental conditions that often reduce profitability in other risk of falling out of the tree and getting varieties. hurt.

Russet Burbank has been one Similar “low-hanging fruit” of the most recognized and opportunities exist in potato utilized varieties in the production. One of the more industry during the last effective and easier to 118 years. It rose to implement is the adoption popularity in the early of new varieties as 1900s in part because a “low-hanging of the Northern Pacific fruit” opportunity Railway’s Route of to improve the Great Big Baked the agronomic Potato. Russet Burbank performance also brought traits to of potatoes and the market that were unique ultimately increase compared to other varieties, including large economic returns to growers. tubers, long dormancy, scab resistance and Like harvesting tree fruit, the risk a russeted skin. These traits helped Russet is not gone completely, but is much Burbank become dominant and maintain the less than going after higher up “fruit” coveted top spot in terms of the number such as trying to change soil and water Alturas, used primarily for processing, has of potato acres planted, especially in the been rated highly for its culinary quality and is characteristics, altering the climate, Pacific Northwest. notable for its high yields and solids, and coldor attempting to completely eliminate Despite being grown on a substantial sweetening resistance. Photo courtesy Potato pests and diseases. number of acres, Russet Burbank definitely Variety Management Institute Despite growing up on a farm has drawbacks that affect producers, fresh and being involved in the planting, packers and processors who routinely deal harvesting and storage of a number of crops, potatoes and their with growth cracks, knobs, hollow heart, dark French fries and specific set of challenges and requirements were not something other stress-related defects. These issues, combined with a high fertilizer requirement and a narrow margin of error for irrigation, often result in less usable yield, waste and decreased revenue.

From the early 1990s until 2019, when the National

Clearwater Russet tubers exhibit excellent fry color out of storage, and their attractiveness make the variety suitable for both processing and 6 freshPotato / June 2021Variety Management Institute marketCountry usage. PhotoMay courtesy Potato

Agriculture Statistics Service stopped collecting data, acres in the Pacific Northwest planted to Russet Burbank dropped by 46 percent, while acres planted to varieties released from the Pacific Northwest Variety Development Program increased by 31 percent, indicating a shift toward the adoption of new varieties with agronomic and postharvest benefits compared to Russet Burbank. Some new varieties such as Teton Russet, Clearwater Russet and Alturas have increased in acreage because their appearance, yields, postharvest quality, storability and economic return are better than varieties that have been grown for years.

Even in my small hometown, more farmland is developed for houses and people each year, and seasonal weather and water availability is anything but stable. With a reduction in farming resources comes the pressure to produce more with less.

New varieties are a “low-hanging” tool that can be used by growers to address producing more with less. While each new variety has a different learning curve, it provides increased potential for improved yields, fewer defects, better fertilizer and water use efficiency, increased pest and disease resistance and a better return to growers.

Teton Russet tubers are oblong with moderate russet, good skin and shallow eyes. Photo courtesy Potato Variety Management Institute

Russet Burbank, one of the most utilized cultivars in the potato industry since the early 1900s, remains a top variety in the U.S., although it is losing some ground to newer varieties.

PotatoCountry.com

7

Potatoes USA Elects Leadership

P

otatoes USA’s newly elected chairman, Jaren Raybould, plans to prioritize restoring demand for potatoes back to pre-pandemic levels. He believes that by continuing to adapt Potatoes USA marketing programs, the industry will continue to discover new ways to encourage people around the world to eat more U.S. potatoes.

Raybould was officially elected as chairman of the board for Potatoes USA during the annual meeting on March 11.

Prior to this election, Raybould served as first vice chair and acting chairman due to the unexpected passing of chairman Marty Meyers in December 2020. This year marks Raybould’s sixth year on the board, which includes co-chairing the Domestic Marketing Committee for three years and serving as a member of the Administrative Committee.

Raybould, a managing member of Raybould Brothers Farms in Saint Anthony, Idaho, grows Russet Burbanks and Russet Norkotahs for retail and foodservice and supplies Five Guys restaurants. In addition to leading

the Potatoes USA Board, Raybould also serves on the Yellowstone Soil Conservation District Board and the Idaho-East Oregon Potato Control Committee. Raybould describes his job as a humbling experience.

“I get to be a part of something bigger than myself and witness the day-to-day miracle of growing and raising potatoes that feed thousands of families across the country,” he says. “The work Jaren Raybould I do wouldn’t be the same without the phenomenal individuals that are involved in the potato industry.

Everyone is independent, competitive and innovative.”

When Raybould assumed responsibilities as chairman in December, he committed to continue the efforts to feed a nation and support an industry through the difficult times caused by the pandemic. He plans to lead by encouraging the industry to continue

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

8

Potato Country

May / June 2021

adapting to best meet the changing and evolving market needs.

In addition to Raybould, Potatoes USA’s 2021-2022 Executive Committee includes: • Jeff Jennings of Camden, North Carolina, chair of the Finance and Policy Committee • Jason Davenport of Bakersfield, California, and Steve Streich of Kalispell, Montana, co-chairs of the International Marketing Committee • Mike Carter of Rosholt, Wisconsin, and Leah Halverson of Grand Forks, North Dakota, co-chairs of the Industry Outreach Committee • Steve Elfering of Idaho Falls, Idaho, and Shelley Olsen of Othello, Washington, co-chairs of the Domestic Marketing Committee • Jennifer Gogan of Houlton, Maine, and Jared Smith of Alamosa, Colorado, co-chairs of the Research Committee • Mike Pink of Pasco, Washington, past chairman

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

What’s under your crop is under your control.

You can’t see nematodes, but you can protect from their damage. Use Velum® Prime to protect your root and tuber crops from damage caused by nematodes.

Long-lasting and wide-spectrum nematode protection that also suppresses Early blight, Early dying and White mold.

Convenient in-season chemigation application.

Innovative chemistry: not a restricted use product.

Effectively manages nematodes, leading to an average increased yield of +41 CWT/A1 with an average increase in profits of $279/A.2

For more information, visit www.VelumPrime.com.

Trial conducted by Miller Research, Acequia, Idaho, 2015.

Average price per CWT based on USDA Crop Production 2017 Summary Report.

1

2

ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Not all products are approved and registered 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 product dealer or representative or U.S. EPA and your state pesticide regulatory agency 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. ©2020 Bayer Group. All rights reserved.

National Potato Council

Virtually Advocating for a Brighter Future at the 2021 Potato D.C. Fly-In

By Kam Quarles, CEO, National Potato Council

E

ach year, growers and industry partners from around the country come together in our nation’s capital to make a difference on issues impacting the potato industry. While this year’s Potato D.C. Fly-In broke tradition by being held virtually, it still served to provide the industry an invaluable platform for talking directly with policymakers about how rules and regulations being considered in Washington D.C. affect family farms and the potato supply chain.

Attendees this February had the opportunity to hear directly from industry champions Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Sen. Jim Risch (R-Idaho), as well as key staff members from the Senate Agriculture Committee Jacqlyn

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Potato Country

May / June 2021

Schneider, deputy staff director and policy director, and Martha Scott Poindexter, Republican staff director.

It also brought together a recordbreaking 161 growers and industry partners who joined their state potato organizations to visit with 46 members of Congress to communicate the industry’s policy priorities. Here are the four issues growers took to their elected representatives.

Trade Opportunities

With 20 percent of all potatoes grown in the United States destined for foreign markets, growers called on Congress and the Biden administration to continue to press for free trade and open market access agreements to ensure the continued growth of the industry.

Additional trade issues advocated for included: • The U.S. potato industry must gain full access to Mexico for fresh potatoes before any reciprocal concessions are offered to Mexico for fruit and vegetable imports such as avocados.

• The U.S. and China should seek to conclude a workable market access agreement for U.S. chipping potatoes as specified in the Phase 1 agreement announced in January 2020.

• Restore tariff benefits for potatoes lost under the Trans-Pacific Partnership withdrawal.

• The U.S. should consider using countermeasures against COVID induced surges in European Union fry imports.

Potato Science, Research

Research is of critical importance to address the challenge of providing food and fiber to a growing population. NPC supports a coordinated public and private research effort to improve U.S. potato nutrition, quality and yield.

During the Fly-In, growers specifically asked for:

• At least $3.25 million in funding for NIFA’s Potato Research Special Grants • Maintaining appropriations report language that recognizes the value of the ARS Potato Collaborative Research Program • Maintaining the current bipartisan provision that makes white potatoes equivalent with other vegetables in accessing the school breakfast program in future appropriations bills

Ag Transportation Efficiencies

NPC continues to advocate for transportation reforms and infrastructure investments that make it easier to get potatoes to market both domestically and internationally. This year, growers asked their members of Congress to support a comprehensive transportation funding bill that includes increased truck weight limits, hours-of-service enhancements, and substantial investments in U.S. infrastructure including roads and seaports.

Ag Labor Reform Provisions

Finally, at this year’s Fly-In, we once again called on Congress to pass legislation similar to the bipartisan Farm Workforce Modernization Act that would address the agriculture industry’s critical shortage of labor to plant and harvest crops. To alleviate the agricultural labor crisis, growers advocated for a legislative solution that includes a responsive guest worker program and a viable option for the current improperly documented workforce to obtain legal work status.

Not only does the Fly-In provide an opportunity for growers to understand the issues being debated in D.C., it gives potato advocates the chance to help shape that process. Even during a pandemic, the Fly-In is a week unlike any other, providing growers and industry partners a forum to speak with one voice to decision makers as we continue to fight for a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.

One Lap Around.

Four Pests Go Down. n n n n

Colorado potato beetle Potato psyllid Worms (loopers, armyworms) Thrips

Insecticide applications may target a single pest, but other pests likely reside in your fields. With Delegate® WG insecticide, you can control multiple pests at once, including Colorado potato beetle, potato psyllid, worms (loopers, armyworms) and thrips.

As a member of the spinosyn class of chemistry (IRAC Group 5), Delegate WG controls pests like no other class of chemistry used in potatoes. Yet, Delegate has low impact on populations of key beneficial insects and will not lead to secondary pest outbreaks.

Visit us at corteva.us ™Trademarks of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies.

Always read and follow label directions. ©2021 Corteva

®

IPC CEO Announces Retirement

By Denise Keller, Editor

A

s a young man, Frank Muir was taught to leave a campsite better than he found it. Since then, he has tried to embrace that philosophy in every aspect of his life, including his work in the Idaho potato industry.

Muir, the president and CEO of the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC), plans to retire this fall and will be leaving his job with a sense of accomplishment after working to build a market and demand for Idaho potatoes for 18 years.

When Muir joined the IPC in 2003, the Idaho potato brand was stale and Idaho potato farm gate revenue was declining, he says. He wanted to use his background in packaged goods marketing to revitalize Idaho potatoes as a brand. In order to do that, the IPC had to fight back against the rising popularity of low-carb diets.

“If you don’t counterpunch, you’re going to get taken out,” Muir recalls.

Within his first six months on the job, he created a multi-year, nutrition-focused ad campaign featuring fitness guru Denise Austin.

To further bolster the IPC’s nutrition messaging, the commission secured and leveraged the American Heart Association certification mark stating Idaho potatoes are heart-healthy. Muir negotiated a reduced license to allow all Idaho shippers to print the Heart-Check mark on their bags.

In addition to changing consumer perceptions about the health attributes of potatoes, Muir worked to change Idaho’s reputation as the “russet state” to a “onestop-shop-state” by encouraging growers to diversify production to include a broad range of potato varieties.

It was also on Muir’s watch that the IPC expanded to markets beyond the U.S., from shipping no fresh potatoes internationally 18 years ago to now shipping fresh spuds to more than 20 countries.

During his tenure, Idaho potato annual farm gate revenue doubled, from the $500 million range when he came on board to

12

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Celebrity chef Rachael Ray and Frank Muir team up at a chef event hosted by the Idaho Potato Commission in South Beach, Florida.

Miss Idaho, Nina Forest, and Frank Muir enjoy the 2018 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl.

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Frank Muir, Idaho Potato Commission president and CEO, speaks during the Big Idaho Potato Harvest Meeting in November 2017.

Photo by Bill Schaefer

averaging over $1 billion in the last five years, according to Muir.

Muir was aware of the challenges facing the industry when he took the job with the IPC in 2003, but he was excited to help build the Idaho potato brand through new and unique marketing programs such as the sponsorship of the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl and the Big Idaho Potato Truck.

“The Big Idaho Potato Truck has proven to be – pun intended – the best marketing vehicle the produce industry has ever seen,” Muir says.

Most recently, Muir is proud of the way in which the IPC quickly pivoted its marketing programs to shift demand from foodservice to retail during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As he nears retirement, he is pleased with the positive impact he’s made on the value of the Idaho potato brand.

“As I look back, I think I can look back with an element of satisfaction that I did the best I could do to move the needle on Idaho potatoes in terms of brand loyalty across the country and across the world,” he says.

PotatoCountry.com

13

Potatoes USA

Potatoes are America’s Favorite Vegetable

By Kim Breshears, Vice President of Marketing, Potatoes USA

A

mericans’ love for potatoes has deepened in the last year, according to the 2021 Consumer Attitudes and Usage study.

Potatoes USA conducts an annual Consumer Attitudes and Usage study to track U.S. consumers’ mindsets toward food and dietary choices and attitudes toward potatoes.

Understanding consumer attitudes and motives is important for the U.S. potato industry to meet market needs and stimulate potato consumption.

The 2021 study indicates the consumers surveyed primarily choose foods based on their flavor, freshness and value.

Specifically, consumers appreciate that potatoes may be eaten in many ways and that they are versatile and filling.

For the fifth year in a row, potatoes ranked as America’s favorite vegetable. Broccoli was the second most popular vegetable, followed by tomatoes, corn, salad mix and mushrooms.

Mashed potatoes were the preparation style eaten most recently, followed by baked potatoes, fries, hash browns and roasted potatoes. Of respondents, 74 percent stated they ate

potatoes weekly, surpassed only by bread.

Even though potatoes are eaten often, the study also asked the respondents why they do not eat potatoes more frequently.

The belief that they already eat enough potatoes was cited as the primary reason, followed by a belief that potatoes are high in carbohydrates, a preference for other vegetables and a belief that potatoes are fattening. However, when asked what would encourage them to buy potatoes more often, consumers cited smaller bag sizes to minimize waste, more meal ideas and nutrition information.

The study tracks consumers’ beliefs on over 30 characteristics about potatoes. The January 2021 study showed the consumers’ opinions about potatoes increased from the prior year on the 17 following attributes: allows you to feel good about what you’re eating; fresh; convenient and easy to use; an energy-packed vegetable; good for athletic performance; helps fuel me for my everyday activities; provides sustained energy; something I usually have on hand; a good source of potassium; healthy for you; gluten-free; contains protein; used and approved by athletes; fills you up; satisfying; a good value and good for recovery.

A few more noteworthy changes in eating pattern data from the prior year’s study: 44 percent of Americans surveyed claim they follow a dietary guideline. Leading diet plans on the list include carb restrictive, low sugar and low sodium. However, carb-restrictive diets saw a 4 point drop since 2020. Also, 49 percent of respondents reported eating the traditional three square meals per day, a slight increase from the previous year.

Cooking styles have become more complex, adventurous and creative. Over three-quarters of respondents say they use recipes regularly when preparing meals.

When you put your hard earned money down forPlease a new potato trailer, why not putany it questions about contact Potatoes USA if you have the 2021potato Consumer Attitudes and Usage study. down on one that will work as hard as you? Western trailers deliver on average

Building the best and making it better…your way!

2000lbs more that the competition. Couple that with the highest resale values in the industry and you can’t go wrong.

Learn more at www.westerntrailer.com or call 888.344.2539

Building the best and making it better…your way!

When you put your hard earned money down for a new potato trailer, why not put it down on one that will work as hard as you? Western potato trailers deliver on average 2000lbs more that the competition. Couple that with the highest resale values in the When hard earned money down for a new potato industry andyou youput can’tyour go wrong.

Building the best and making it better…your way!

trailer, it down on one that will work hard as you?

Learn why morenot at put www.westerntrailer.com or callas888.344.2539 Western potato trailers deliver on average 2000lbs more that the competition. Couple that with the highest resale values in the industry and you can’t go wrong.

Learn more at www.westerntrailer.com or call 888.344.2539 14

Potato Country

May / June 2021

ThePotatoPodcast.com

Calendar June 8

Ag World Golf Classic Canyon Lakes Golf Course Kennewick, Wash. www.agworldgolf.com

June 10

Ag World Golf Classic The Links at Moses Pointe Moses Lake, Wash. www.agworldgolf.com

June 23

OSU Potato Field Day

Location (on-site or online) TBD (541) 567-6337

June 24

WSU Potato Field Day

WSU Othello Research Unit Othello, Wash.

Mark Pavek, (509) 335-6861 or mjpavek@wsu.edu

June 24-26

United Fresh 2021 Los Angeles www.unitedfresh.org

July 26-29

Potato Association of America Annual Meeting Online www.potatoassociation.org

July 27-30

National Potato Council Summer Meeting

Presque Isle, Maine Hillary Hutchins, hillaryh@nationalpotatocouncil.org

Oct. 28-30

PMA Fresh Summit New Orleans www.freshsummit.com

Editor’s note: Information was correct at presstime. Please contact event organizers to check for possible changes.

PotatoCountry.com

15

Harvest Essentials Buyers' Guide Agri-Stor Company

www.agri-stor.com/crop-protection/ Disinfecting and Crop Protection

Agri-Stor Company’s storage disinfecting and crop protection solutions address seed, process and fresh market growers’ needs for superior product quality. Multiple modes of application are available, including cold and thermal fogging, AANE and misting.

Solutions include peracetic acid (PAA), chlorine dioxide and other effective options to protect storage and crops against various diseases and micro-organisms.

Disinfecting Services, Inc. www.disinfectingservices.net Harvest 6.0

Harvest 6.0 serves as a versatile sanitizer and disinfectant for potatoes going into storage or already in storage. The product is one of the strongest disinfectants labeled for potatoes on the market. Harvest 6.0 utilizes hydrogen peroxide and peracetic acid to protect against fungi, algae and bacteria. The combination of these two ingredients is effective and environmentally friendly.

Harvest 6.0 has proven to be an effective disinfectant on equipment and cleaning storage facilities.

Greentronics

www.greentronics.com RiteWeight In-line Conveyor Scale

Greentronics offers an easy and accurate method for tracking loads and weights by date, field, variety, temperature and cellar. New features added to Greentronics’ RiteWeight in-line conveyor scale are designed to automate harvest and storage data recording. Data are uploaded via an Android phone or tablet to the Greentronics cloud server for processing and reporting in near realtime. Maps and reports can be viewed, downloaded, shared or printed from anywhere. A range of reports detail how much crop is stored and where it was grown. 2-D maps show where crop is stored by date, field and variety. By including a crop temperature sensor with the scale, maps will provide a temperature profile for each cellar. Maps allow growers to easily complete traceability reports. Harvest and storage progress can be monitored remotely. Reports show inventory levels.

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Potato Country

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IPL Macro

www.iplmacro.com Plastic Bins

IPL Macro’s farm-to-harvest containers and totes are specifically designed to increase efficiency and reduce waste for growers and packers. Macro specializes in heavy-duty bulk containers and totes that can withstand the daily pounding that harvesting containers typically receive, while carefully protecting the vegetables inside. The highly engineered bins protect produce and reduce damage in the field and during transport.

Macro containers have smooth, nonporous surfaces that are easy to sanitize and won’t trap debris, breed bacteria or absorb chemicals. Plastic bins are lightweight and have consistent tare weights, as they do not absorb liquid. Macro’s plastic bins are HACCP and GAP compliant and FDA approved. Rounded corners and smooth interior reduce the risk of product scuffs, cuts and abrasions. Ventilation slots throughout the bins improve airflow, and heat absorption is reduced, which helps keep produce cool and increases the shelf life and quality.

Lockwood Manufacturing www.lockwoodmfg.com VACS Mobile

The VACS Mobile has been dubbed the “ultimate mobile cleaning machine” since its debut in 2018. Its ability to separate rock, dirt and other trash is unmatched. Plus, it is self-powered and extremely mobile, being mounted on a semitrailer. Equally as impressive is its Quick-Change table technology that allows growers to pick and/or change out cleaning tables based on their conditions. There are four table options to choose from, and the process to change tables is extremely easy.

Efficiency is crucial during harvest, and the VACS Mobile offers just that and then some.

PotatoCountry.com

17

Harvest Essentials Logan Farm Equipment

www.loganpotato.com/listing/scoop-pro Logan Scooper

The recently redesigned Logan Scooper in 30-inch and 36-inch sizes offers new upgrades with innovative designs to make the Logan Scooper one of the finest in the potato industry. The tractor, made of heavy plate lined in stainless steel, includes features such as electric speed control, push-button tow/no-tow gearboxes, a removable nose plate and axle/fender lift for an excellent package.

The continuous telescoping conveyor has no drops, is light but strong with its truss-like framework, utilizes a dual hydraulic lift, offers electric speed control and has an option for stainless steel. The Logan Scooper is feature rich and an excellent value.

Mayo Manufacturing www.mayomfg.com Unloading Conveyor

Mayo unloading conveyors provide flexible, efficient and high-volume unloading of field trucks and trailers. Designed as ideal for feeding eliminators, surge hoppers and evenflows, Mayo unloading conveyors are available in several sizes with many options and can also be custom ordered to growers’ specifications.

Rietveld Equipment

www.rietveldequipment.com Polisher

The Allround Polisher TD 350-18 has 18 rolls of brushes with an estimated capacity of 25 tons per hour. Three smaller models are also available. The polishers are available in stainless steel and feature a hydraulic lift for easy cleanout, variable speed control, a water recirculation system and water cleaning system. The machine also offers easy brush removal for changing the brushes, as well as several different types of brushes for each application.

Allround builds all of the machines required in a washing/grading line, and the machines are running in over 80 countries worldwide.

Rietveld Equipment offers free 2D and 3D drawings of full lines, or drawings of the available machines in users’ existing lines.

Parts and machines are in stock at the company’s Midwest facility, and service and support from certified technicians is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Spudnik Equipment www.spudnik.com 6740 Harvester

In 2019, Spudnik introduced the 6740, a new high-capacity harvester. The fourrow harvester is able to work with 6160 (six-row) or 6180 (eight-row) windrowers, allowing a maximum of 20 rows of harvesting in a single pass. The 6740 has a wider rear cross, wider side elevator and wider boom. The more efficient fan on the 6740 is able to facilitate the cleaning of the increased product flow. It is equipped with an additional intake web, adjusted hydraulically for additional cleaning prior to the primary and secondary chains. Similar to the 6640, the 6740 is configurable with a variety of side elevator separating tables and a telescoping boom.

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Spud Toons

by Jonny Hawkins

"Did you hear about Lenny down at the Potato Farm?

He got sacked!"

PILERS

2007 Milestone 42” all belt, 230 3ph remote 2000 Wemco 36” all belt, 480 3ph, remote 1992 DL 811 30” BC Elev. x 49’Tel., 3ph, remote 1990 DL 811 30” BC Elev. x 49’Tel. 3ph, remote 1985 DL 813 BC Elev. 30”x49’Tel. 3ph 1984 & 85 Spudnik 450 Pilers 36” 3ph, all belt, remote 1984 DL 812 36” x 49’ 3ph all belt

SCOOPERS

1990 Spudnik 100 24” 3ph 1984 Spudnik 100 24” 1ph 1982 Spudnik 100 24” 3ph 1993 Double L 837 24” 3ph 2014 Logan Trac Pro 10’ x 30” x 10’ belt 3ph 2002 Spudik 2200 30” Double L 36” x 12’ all belted chain 3ph Double L 832 BC 30” fingers 1984 Spudnik 2200 Belt 30” x 8’ 3ph x 2

CONVEYORS - TELESCOPIC 2015 Logan 48” x 85’ 3ph 480 volt Shop built 30”/36” x 65’ 480 V 3ph Double L 820 30” x 60’ 3ph Double L 810 30” x 50’ 3ph

2015 & 17 Milestone 36” x 40’ & 30’ 3ph Double L 809 30” x 38’ 3ph x 10 Double L 808 30” x 25’ 3ph x 4 Spudnik 1200 30” x 40’ 3ph x 2 Spudnik 1200 24” x 20’ Hopper 3ph

U P

S

DIRT ELIMINATOR ONLY

2001 Spudnik 950 72” 230 volt 3ph 2000 Spudnik 900 60” 230 volt 3ph 1997 DL 807 62” BC with 3 stingers 3ph 1987 Spudnik 60” belt hopper, fingers, BC table 3ph 1984 DL 806 44” BC with 2 stingers 3ph 1986 DL 824 36” BC with 1 stinger 1ph 2014 Spudnik 991 72” Multi Sep /Air Sep 2013 Harriston 4240 Clod Hopper 3ph 2013 Hariston 240 Clod Hopper 3ph 1996 Harriston Model 200 Clod Hopper

2014 Mayo 500 cwt 48” elev, 36” discharge, 3ph 1993 Spudnik 1800 600cwt 48” Elev. 3ph 1996 Double L 860 600 cwt 3ph 1986 Milestone 90cwt 30”Elev.Auto fill, 3ph VFD Milestone 30cwt tilt belt 3ph VFD Milestone 30cwt 3ph VFD

BEDS

TRUCKS/TRUCKS & BEDS

2007 Mack 330hp Allison Auto x 5 1999 Mack EZ350 10spd 4.17ratio 2012 Logan LP24 PTO 1989 IH 4900 DT466, Auto w/ 06 Spudnik 20’ EZ tarp 2000 Double L 851 4 row LH 1999 Double L 851 4 row RH 1982 Logan 2 row

EN

HARVESTERS

2009 Double L 953 4 row 2009 Spudnik 6400 2007 Double L 853 2005 Spudnik 6400 bunker, Hyd Assist drive wheels 2000 Double L 873 2001 Spudnik 6400 1996 Lockwood 4640

U Q

2012 Double L 901 20’ elec. /roll tarp dual drive 2011 Double L 901 20’ elec. /roll tarp dual drive 2001 Double L 802 Bed 22’ PTO only roll tarp dual drive 2000 Double L 801 Bed 20’ Electric dual drive 1999 Spudnik 2100 Elec. 20’ w/EZ Tarp dual drive 1999 Spudnik 2100 20’ PTO dual drive 1999 Spudnik 2100 24’ PTO dual drive 1984 Logan SB20 Electric

SEED CUTTERS

2017 Milestone 60” 230 volt 3ph 2000 Milestone 60” 230 volt 3ph 2000 Better Built 46520 60” 3ph 1996 Milestone 48” 1ph 1993 Milestone 36” 1ph

TREATERS

New Excel 10” combo liquid & dust 2008 Milestone 42” Duster 1998 Milestone 36” Duster 1996 Milestone 36” Duster

PLANTERS

PLANTER/TARE/PILER

New Logan 36” Tare Piler 3ph VFD 1991 DL 815 24” x 24’ 220 Volt 1ph 1975 Milestone Cutter to Truck piler

M O

WATER DAMMERS

New Logan Yield Pro 6 row 36” Water Dammer 1990 AG Engineering 6 row 36” hyd reset 2008 Logan Yield Pro 4 row 36” spring shanks

C .

T

CROSSOVERS/WINDROWERS

M IP

EVEN FLOWS

E D

CONVEYORS - STRAIGHT

2017 Spudnik 925 84” 3ph 230 volt 2000 Spudnik 925 72” 3ph 480 Volt 1996 Spudnik 925 72” 3ph 480 Volt 1991 Spudnik 910 60” 3ph 480 volt

2011 Mayo 84” DE, Sizer 3ph 2000 Double 878 DE 78” 3ph flip down 72” sizer 1997 Double 807 Dirt Elim. 62” BC 3ph Stingers 72” Sizer

ROCK/CLOD/ELIMINATORS

STINGERS

SIZER ONLY

DIRT ELIMINATOR W/ SIZER

2013 Spudnik 8069 bed planter 9 units in 6 row frame pull with steering 2007 Gruse Bed planter 4 row off set hitch 1996 Lockwood 6 row pick mechanical 1995 Kverneland 4 row 3200 – 36”

SHREDDER/VINE BEATERS/ POWER HILLER 1986 Loftness 4 row 36” Steel rollers

MISC.

Scooper belly dump unloader attachment Mayo Scooper belly dump unloader attachment

WAREHOUSE/PACKAGING

Tri Steel felt dryer 60” x 15’ L 4 brushes 26 felt drying rolllers Mayo 60” x 8 ‘ flat table washer, 18- 6” brushes & spray bar Kerian 60” wide sizer 2- Steel flumes 30” wide by 50’ long 2- Tri Steel 6” flume pumps 1000 gpm 10hp Flat conveyor 36” W x 40’ L 2014 Odenburg model Halo 2000 80” 1000 cwt warehouse Even flow with tilt conveyor Mayo 24” x 53’ Telescopic Van Loader conveyor Mayo 30” Elevating conveyor to Van Loader Kerian 60” sizer Portable Washer with brushes, pumps, holding tank on wheels Rolling table 30” x 11’

NOT COMPLETE LIST. CHECK SPUDEQUIPMENT.COM OR CALL

BRUCE: (208)390-5120 | BRUCEN@TRISTEELMFG.COM • EVAN: (208)757-8481 | EVANN@TRISTEELMFG.COM • ERIC: (701)629-7090 | ERICD@TRISTEELMFG.COM

PotatoCountry.com

19

Quality Control Focusing on Quality of Fresh Pack Potatoes

By Mike Thornton, Plant Scientist, and Nora Olsen, Extension Potato Specialist, University of Idaho

R

ecent studies indicate that consumers are becoming more demanding about the quality of the food they buy. The potato industry has a lot riding on consumer perceptions of fresh potato quality as their brand is prominently displayed on each bag. In the produce department, potato quality is most often initially judged by appearance and then by shelf-life after the purchase is made. Defects that negatively influence appearance and shelf-life can, therefore, adversely damage consumers’ perceptions and lead them to have second thoughts about purchasing potatoes in the future.

To get a better understanding of fresh potato quality, the Idaho Potato Commission has been funding a research project

with a few main objectives: 1) identify the most common types of defects that lead to quality issues; 2) document the months of the shipping season and shipping destinations where quality issues are most common; and 3) determine the extent to which defect levels change between the time of packing and arrival at the distribution center. This project started in February 2018 and will run through June 2021, and encompasses parts of the 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020 potato crops.

Types of Defects

Throughout this project, we have been working closely with the fresh pack industry to look at the most common defects associated with quality notices (downgrades and rejections) for loads arriving at produce distribution centers of one of the largest retailers in the U.S. One of the first things we learned is that the types of defects causing most of the quality issues are not constant from month to month or year to year.

For example, during the winter of 2018, blackspot, shatter bruise, dry rot and soft rot were the most reported defects. But by that summer, pressure bruise was the defect most associated with quality issues as the remaining potatoes in storage were packed and shipped. In the fall of 2019, conditions were very cold, leading to a lot of shatter bruise and blackspot, as well as soft rot in lots that were affected by frost. However, once those initial lots with frost damage were gone, the level of soft rot dropped substantially.

Season and Region

Figure 1. A pressure bruise depression is visible on the surface of this tuber (top), and a black spot is revealed upon cutting (bottom).

Pressure bruise and other defects that negatively influence potato appearance and shelf-life are at the center of a research project designed to better understand fresh potato quality.

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It was interesting to see that the number of quality notices can spike at certain times of the year, but again that pattern was not always consistent. We saw a sharp increase in quality notices in April 2018, but that was followed by a steep reduction one month later. In contrast, in the past two winters, we have seen a smaller increase in quality notices around February, but then a leveling off in quality issues after that point.

One of the more consistent trends we have seen in this project is that there is a definite geographic bias in terms of the location of distribution centers that tend to have the most quality reports. For example, during the August 2018 to January 2019 period, approximately 50 percent of the rejections/downgrades were from six distribution centers located in the Southeast and 15 percent from two located in the Midwest. The remaining 35 percent of the notices were spread evenly across the remaining 19 distribution centers. This indicates that transportation duration may be having a bigger impact on arrival quality than previously realized.

Changes in Transit

To better understand the changes in potato quality that are occurring along the supply chain, we tracked six loads from a single packing shed to several distribution centers in the West, Northeast and Southeast. We took subsamples from 5-pound consumer poly bags off the packing room floor, put some of the bags into a walk-in cooler to hold at the same temperature as the set point of the truck, and then met the truckload on the day the potatoes were delivered to the distribution center.

For all three sets of samples, we peeled about 200 potatoes to determine the types and number of both scorable and nonscorable defects. We also stashed temperature and humidity recording devices within the pallets on each load to get a better handle on actual conditions inside the trucks.

The results were eye opening in that for two of the six loads, the temperature conditions inside the truck never reached the set point. One case was due to a malfunctioning thermostat, and in the other case, the reefer unit was switched in transit to intermittent operation, which caused the potatoes to cool very slowly. This is a very small sample size, but it does raise the importance of checking on trucks to ensure they are operating in the desired manner. Another surprising result was the range of temperatures among pallets on a truck. We commonly saw 3 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit temperature difference between pallets located in the front compared to the back of the truck.

In terms of quality, we saw a measurable increase in both 21-04 Potato Country-.5H page.v1.pdf

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blackspot and shatter bruise between packing and arrival at destination. This is not surprising as potatoes are likely to experience impact damage any time they are handled, including during the packing operation. In most situations, the increase was not associated with an increase in scorable defects, which is good news. The exception was in the incidence of potatoes cutting black underneath a visible pressure bruise depression on the surface (Fig. 1). For some reason, we saw three times more of these pressure bruises cutting black at the distribution center compared to the packing shed.

Interestingly, the potatoes sampled in the packing shed and placed into a walk-in cooler for the same number of days as the truck journey did not show any increase in this defect.

This indicates that something unique to the conditions in the truck (vibration, temperature fluctuation, oxygen level or other factors) is causing an increase in pressure bruise defect levels.

It is clear that focusing on bruise prevention is still the best way to ensure that consumers remain satisfied with the quality of fresh potatoes. That message needs to be emphasized throughout the handling chain from harvest through arrival at the supermarket if we are going to maximize appearance and shelf-life.

To help with education efforts, we have posted articles, bulletins and videos focusing on bruise prevention at www.uidaho.edu/potatoes.

PotatoCountry.com

21

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.

Dr. Andy Jensen

Same or Different?

1A

Some species of insects can vary in appearance to frustrating degrees.

Similarly, there are sometimes very different insect species that look similar to each other. These facts complicate the task of recognizing insects in the field and lab. Below are two pairs of insects: two leafhoppers and two aphids.

2A

1. For each pair, are these two insects the same species, or different?

2. What kind of insects are they?

Answers Page 25

1B

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2B

Know Your Potato Diseases

Disease Identification Quiz Dr. Jeff Miller 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

A

B As potatoes grow through the season, multiple pathogens and environmental stressors are capable of causing leaf spots or blights. What is the cause of the problem in each of these photos?

Answers Page 24

C

D PotatoCountry.com

23

New Products

HydroSide Systems Rolls Out New Wheel Mover

HydroSide Systems has developed a patent-pending hydroelectric irrigation wheel line mover. The Hydro Mover is a hydro-powered, self-charging, all-electric, remote-operated system. The company bills it as “bringing precision irrigation tech to old-school techniques.”

With the Hydro Mover, water comes into the line and spins a turbine. This power is stored in onboard batteries that power the system. Once the line is drained, operators can move the line to the next set with the click of a button.

Visit www.hydroside.com.

Know Your Disease Answers (from page 23)

Photo A shows Verticillium wilt caused by Verticillium dahliae. Usually, leaves will die on one side of the petiole first. The symptom of necrosis at the tip is also usually accompanied by a general wilt. The vascular tissue inside the stem will also be discolored.

Photo B shows gray mold caused by Botrytis cinerea. This fungus is primarily a saprophyte on decaying potato leaves and vines but can also cause a primary infection, as seen in this photo. This symptom is similar to what can be seen with Verticillium wilt. One difference is that gray mold is usually localized on the leaf tip and symptoms are not seen in the vascular tissue.

Photo C shows wind damage. No pathogens were found to cause these lesions. These lesions appeared a few days after a strong windstorm. These lesions can appear similar to dried late blight lesions.

Photo D shows wind and sand damage. No pathogens were found to cause the lesion on this lower leaf. Strong winds caused this lower leaf to rub against the soil, thus damaging the leaf tip. This symptom is similar to Verticillium wilt and gray mold, but occurs on young plants much earlier than would be expected with those two diseases.

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Potato Country

May / June 2021

Soiltech Sells All-inOne Crop Sensor

Soiltech has developed a versatile sensor to wirelessly monitor the growth, transportation and storage of a wide range of crops. It can be used to track moisture, temperature, humidity, location and impacts on the crop.

Users bury the sensor where they want to measure moisture and temperature. The sensor takes a reading every 15 minutes and wirelessly sends data to a phone or computer. This recording of irrigation events, soil temperature and other trend lines can be used in making decisions from the start of the growing season through the end of harvest.

The sensor has a one-year battery life to minimize trips to the field, and batteries are rechargeable.

Visit www.soiltechwireless.com.

Vive Simplifies Nematode Management

Potato growers now have a convenient new tool to battle nematodes in-season with Averland FC (abamectin + Allosperse), which was registered by the EPA in 2019.

Recently, Vive Crop Protection issued a label recommendation (2ee) for protection from nematodes in potatoes by chemigation.

Averland FC mixes seamlessly with in-season fertility to help create on-farm efficiency, according to Vive, in addition to significantly reducing user and environmental exposure.

As a foliar or chemigation application, Averland FC also takes care of Colorado potato beetle, leafminers, psyllids, mites and thrips. It is based on the Allosperse Delivery System, designed to allow products to be mixed and applied with foliar fertilizer.

Visit www.vivecrop.com/products/averland-fc.

Know Your Insects Answers (from page 22)

1. The insects in pair 1 are different species; the insects in pair 2 are the same species.

2. Insect 1A is a Gloridonus leafhopper that is sometimes seen on traps set out for beet leafhopper. Insect 1B is a very dark-colored specimen of beet leafhopper, the sort you might see in early spring or late fall when beet leafhoppers are darker colored than during the summer. Insects 2A and 2B are green peach aphids. 2A was collected during the summer from bittersweet nightshade, 2B from an unheated greenhouse in January. Green peach aphid is one of many aphids that tend to be darker colored under cold conditions.

T R UST Y O UR C AL C I UM & P H OS AT HO O K I NG W I T H MI C RON I Z E D MI NER AL -D E R I VE D FE R T I LI Z E R S AP P R O VED FO R O R GAN I C U S E THE EUROPEAN SECRET TO A HEALTHY YIELD

4 8 0 - 3 6 1 - 1 3 0 0 | W W W. F E R T I C E L L U S A . C O M PotatoCountry.com

25

In the News

NPC Names 2021 Leaders

Dominic LaJoie of Van Buren, Maine, was elected to serve as the 2021 National Potato Council (NPC) president during the organization’s annual meeting, held virtually Feb. 22.

LaJoie is a fourth-generation potato grower and partner of LaJoie Growers LLC. NPC delegates also approved the 2021 Executive Committee, which includes Jared Balcom, Washington, first vice president, Trade Affairs; R.J. Andrus, Idaho, vice president, Legislative Affairs; Bob Mattive, Colorado, vice president, Environmental Affairs; Ben Sklarczyk, Michigan, vice president, Finance; Ted Tschirky, Washington, vice president, Grower Outreach and Industry Research; and Britt Raybould, Idaho, immediate past president.

Idaho Investors Acquire Double L

Farm equipment manufacturer Double L has reached a definitive agreement to be acquired by a group of Idaho investors. The investors include Teton Management Group, Pickett Equipment and the Idaho Legacy Fund, all headquartered in Idaho and led by individuals experienced in the agriculture industry. The deal will enable Double L to accelerate product offerings, expand support for customers and enter a new era of leadership in the farm equipment industry, according to the company.

Newly appointed Double L CEO, Jeff Sayer, is the former Idaho Secretary of Commerce and managing member of Idaho Legacy Fund. Double L’s former CEO, Chris Hunsaker, will assume the new role of chief business development officer.

Stay on target

Precision application control Don’t miss your shot at a great crop. Micro-Trak’s advanced measuring, monitoring, and control systems deliver the accuracy and dependability you need to hit your business goals.

Check out our full range of products at micro-trak.com.

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Potato Country

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(800)328-9613 Micro-Trak.com Trakmail@Micro-Trak.com

IPC Continues to Team up With NFL’s Taysom Hill

The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) used its first consumer digital ad campaign to reach close to 3 million people. The campaign consisted of five 30-second videos featuring Taysom Hill, a New Orleans Saints quarterback and Idaho native. The ads, which showcased the versatility of both Hill and Idaho potatoes, ran from Dec. 20 through Feb. 7 on multiple streaming platforms and sports websites. The vignettes were also posted on the IPC’s social media.

The series of ads garnered 2.7 million impressions across online and streaming platforms. And the videos have had a total reach of 227,000 on Facebook and Instagram and 70,000 impressions on Twitter.

Potato Recipe Goes Viral on TikTok

A recipe for crispy roasted potatoes has become famous on TikTok, the popular video-sharing social network.

The aptly named “Internet-Famous Crispy Potatoes” recipe is shared in a one-minute video that has racked up more than 20 million views. The recipe was created by Jeremy Scheck, a home chef and student at Cornell University. In the video, Scheck recommends Yukon Gold or red-skin potatoes and shares a technique to deliver perfect crispy potatoes.

Subscribe at PotatoCountry.com/subscribe

Liphatech Announces Anniversary Offers

Liphatech’s Rozol brand is celebrating the 50-year anniversary of the EPA registration of Liphatech’s first active ingredient, chlorophacinone.

Rozol is used to manage field rodent infestations to reduce damage to crops and property. Rozol is labeled for use on ground squirrels, black-tailed prairie dogs, pocket gophers, rats, mice and voles on farms in many states.

To celebrate the 50th anniversary, Liphatech is inviting growers, applicators and crop advisors to share their Rozol success stories in exchange for a vintage T-shirt. In addition, for growers purchasing Rozol, Liphatech is offering an online rebate that allows payback for nearly any combination of Rozol brands.

For details, visit www.liphatech.com/rozol50.

TWO RETIREMENT AUCTIONS

POTATO/ONION FARMS SAT. JUNE 19 OSWEGO, NEW YORK (Along Lake Ontario between Rochester and Syracuse) A.FERLITO FARMS, LLC Complete Muckland Equipment Dispersal With Large Field And Packing House Line

MON. JUNE 28 PIKE, NEW YORK

(Southwest of Rochester/ Southeast of Buffalo) AYRES AND GILLETTE, LLC Complete Potato Farming Line (Bulk Chip Potatoes) Both Lines Are Very Well Cared For! See Full List/Pictures/Updates/TERMS:

www.pirrunginc.com PIRRUNG AUCTIONEERS, INC.

585-728-2520

PotatoCountry.com

27

Market Report

A Post-Pandemic Potato

I

t has now been a year since we asked the question, “Is it over yet?” with regard to the COVID-19 pandemic. While coronavirus variants continue to plague much of the world, progress in treating and preventing the disease is making great strides. With vaccination advancing rapidly in the U.S., we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. It will take longer for other countries to bring the virus under control, but government constraints on everyday activity are loosening, either because of progress in the fight against the virus, or because of popular fatigue with the restrictions. Therefore, it is time to look at what a post-pandemic potato market is likely to look like.

Consumer Behavior Changes

COVID-19 has changed consumer behavior in numerous ways. Some behaviors might revert to pre-pandemic norms, but others will last much longer.

The pandemic changed where and how people work and shop, as well as where and what they eat. While many desire to return to office life, working from home has proven to be liberating for workers and cost-effective for employers. Office work will resume, but hybrid work patterns are likely to be the new norm.

That might limit any rebound in the foodservice sector. People will be anxious to resume restaurant dining for special occasions, but mid-day meals away from

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home are likely to be less common than they were prior to the pandemic.

Grocery pickup and home delivery both received significant boosts during the pandemic. While necessity accelerated that trend, we doubt that consumers will revert to old patterns. The shift may slow as the economy opens up, but the trend is likely to continue.

USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box Program developed to meet a need during the pandemic. The need should subside as the economy reopens. However – like all government programs – once established, finding the political will to end the program will be difficult. Program details might change, but government purchases of commodities for distribution by food banks are likely to be an ongoing effort for the foreseeable future.

Table Potato Market

The pandemic created several cross currents in the table potato market. The net impact on sales appears to have been positive due to increased sales through retail channels and through USDA’s Farmers to Families Food Box Program.

However, reduced movement through foodservice outlets hurt several segments of the fresh potato market, including demand for russet count cartons as well as the market for B-sized red potatoes.

Growers seem hopeful that recovery from the pandemic will give the table potato market a boost. However, prospects for increased demand are mixed, at best.

The pandemic introduced a new generation of consumers to preparing and eating fresh potatoes at home. It can be hoped that the experience has been positive so that consumers will continue to buy fresh potatoes at an elevated level, though the number of meals prepared at home is likely to decline as foodservice sales pick up. Sales through restaurants and other foodservice establishments will rebound. That should change the price balance between consumer packs and

count cartons, but there is no guarantee that it will boost average grower returns.

Overall demand for fresh potatoes during the coming year is likely to be flat, at best. The shift to more away-from-home dining could dampen overall demand for table potatoes.

Frozen Potato Products

Domestic demand for frozen potato products rebounded quickly, following the initial shock of the pandemic shutdown. Evidence suggests that overall domestic sales may be matching or exceeding year-earlier volumes, though some of that is coming in the form of increased imports. Retail sales have been extremely strong during the pandemic.

On the other hand, the global market has been much slower to recover. In addition, European exporters have been able to capture business much faster than their U.S. counterparts. There is every reason to believe that global French fry sales will resume their long-term trend once government-imposed restrictions are lifted. Sales outside of Europe and North America plunged more than 30 percent during April and May 2020, but rebounded quickly after that. By December, sales were only running about 5 percent behind the pre-pandemic pace.

Trade has tended to grow about 8 percent per year over the past 20 years. We expect that trend to continue. That is the good news.

The bad news is that the North American processors’ cautious raw product procurement strategies are leaving the door open for European fryers to capture most of the growth.

Constrained domestic supplies also have allowed European product to gain a toehold in the U.S. domestic French fry market. Both issues are likely to create headwinds for the North American French fry industry during the postpandemic period.

Market

By Bruce Huffaker, Publisher North American Potato Market News

Potato Chip Sales

“Staycation” snacking has given potato chip consumption a boost in past economic downturns. The pandemic created an experiment in how long sustained consumption increases would last when consumers were forced to stay at home for long periods. True to form, consumers increased potato chip purchases during the early months of the pandemic. However, sales have backed off to more-normal levels in recent months. Based on raw-product contract volumes for the 2021 crop, it appears that chip companies do not expect any boost in sales to be driven by the economic reopening.

Post-Pandemic Predictions

While pandemic-era potato market trends are likely to moderate in a postpandemic world, it is doubtful that consumer behavior will return to pre2020 norms. In the retail world, online and pickup sales are likely to continue gaining market share. Consumers introduced to fresh and processed potato products designed for in-home preparation are likely to continue buying more of those products than they did prior to the pandemic, though perhaps not as much as they did when they were forced to stay closer to home.

Away-from-home dining will increase as occupancy restrictions are lifted, but it will take a long time to get back to prepandemic levels, both due to the loss of restaurant capacity and to the hybrid (athome and office) work patterns that are emerging. Restaurant reopening should boost demand for russet count cartons and for B-sized red potatoes, but that may be offset by reduced demand for consumer packs.

French fry sales should rebound, but sales volumes could be constrained by raw product supplies, as well as by stiff competition from European product.

Potato chip sales appear to be most likely to revert to pre-pandemic norms.

HUFFAKER'S HIGHLIGHTS

• Expect permanent changes in consumer behavior in a post-pandemic world.

• A new generation of consumers has been introduced to home-cooked potatoes and potato products.

• It will take a long time for away-from-home food consumption to exceed pre-pandemic levels.

• Competition from European French fries is likely to increase, both in the global market and domestically.

• Growers and handlers will need to adjust to meet consumer needs in the “new normal.”

Editor’s note: To contact Mr. Huffaker, or to subscribe to North American Potato Market News (published 48 times per year), write or call: 2690 N. Rough Stone Way, Meridian, ID 83646; (208) 525-8397; or e-mail napmn@napmn.com.

Agricultural Consulting & Testing • Soil Testing • Irrigation Scheduling • Feed Analysis • Contract Research • Tissue Testing • Pest Management

• Field Research • Grid Sampling • Variable Rate Fertilization • International Testing • Agronomic and CCA Seminars • Nematode Testing

Contact: Paul Stukenholtz, Consulting Agronomist

Crop Consultants: JP Kruckeberg • Bart Kunz • Cameron Brower Antone Christensen • Wess Gibson • Cody McCoy • Kevin Victor

www.stukenholtz.com 208-734-3050 • 800-759-3050

PO Box 353 • 2924 Addison Ave E. • Twin Falls, ID 83301 PotatoCountry.com

29

Potato Growers of Washington

Changing Times

By Dale Lathim, Potato Growers of Washington

O

ver the years, the Potato Growers of Washington (PGW) has had to evolve to keep up with the ever-changing potato industry. One of the areas that I see needing the most attention in the immediate future is the timing of our negotiations.

Traditionally, contracts have been negotiated in the late winter/early spring of each year. There have been a few years in which we had multiple-year contracts, and the hope was that we would always be negotiating a year out going forward.

But those all ended with the timing falling back into the same old rut.

The forward-thinking potato growers in the 1980s went to the Washington State Legislature and were successful in getting passed the Agricultural Fair Practices Act. This act requires all buyers of potatoes for processing to negotiate with an accredited bargaining association if one exists. To be an accredited bargaining association, a group must have either more than 50 percent of an individual processing company’s contract growers of record, or more than 50 percent of the individual processing company’s contract volume in the prior year. Since PGW clearly meets both of those requirements with all three of our frozen potato processing companies, that is not an issue.

What is becoming an issue is that the

act requires that these negotiations must take place at “reasonable times and for reasonable periods of time” beginning at least 60 days prior to planting and concluding within 30 days of the normal planting date. The past two years, the contract talks have not concluded until close to 30 days after planting began, not prior to planting.

While concluding more than 30 days prior to planting should be a given under the state law, I would argue that even that is no longer a valid timeframe for growers to make planting decisions. Back in 1988, when this law was being drafted, potato growing was much different than it is today. Back then, there were nearly 500 growers raising about 120,000 acres of potatoes in the Columbia Basin.

This year, we will have fewer than 100 growers raising nearly 200,000 acres of potatoes. And the cost to grow potatoes has gone from around $2,000/acre to now pushing over $5,000/acre in some cases.

This consolidation and rising risk make it very difficult for growers to make last-minute cropping changes. By the time growers get into the DecemberJanuary timeframe that the Agricultural Fair Practices Act outlines as the negotiating period, many of them already have more than $1,000 invested in each acre they plan to grow in the coming year.

This makes saying no to even a ridiculous contract offer like we received this year almost impossible to do. Thus, we as a grower group have less and less leverage

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Potato Country

May / June 2021

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to reach anything close to a fair and equitable agreement on price.

Further, many growers have longterm contract commitments with some processors. Those commitments require that growers commit to the processing company the exact number of acres that they will grow for the company before the previous harvest is complete.

This was not a huge deal before when the processing companies were using a standard model that we all knew and accepted. Now that that method of arriving at price has been completely abandoned and the companies are dictating what they believe to be a reasonable return for the grower without any real say from the grower, we must find a new approach.

Here’s my solution to fix this. All negotiations must be completed within 30 days of growers beginning to outlay cash for the upcoming crop year. Since growers who lease land must start signing leases and making at least partial payments for the rent at the time of signing, I believe that the real negotiating period needs to be between July 15 and Aug. 15 of each year. That way, growers will know the price and volume that their processors want before any financial commitment is made in the new crop, and if they wish to adjust their rotations, they can do so in a timely manner both economically and agronomically. Why should growers make commitments to their processors before the processors are even willing to share with them the price and volume they expect for the coming year?

This will be our big push for the 2022 crop year. Change is hard for everyone and seems to be even harder for many in the potato industry, but this is one that is critical to the survival of most growers, in my opinion. We hope to have all of your support in making this happen.

Nematode Protection + “Carbamate Kick” = Improved Yields

Vydate® C-LV insecticide/nematicide protects crops systemically by moving above and below ground. In the soil, Vydate C-LV provides protection against damaging nematodes. Above ground, its foliar activity protects plants against numerous insects, such as aphids, lygus, Colorado potato beetle, potato psyllid and leafhoppers.

Furthermore, Vydate C-LV offers the well-documented “carbamate kick,” characteristic of its class of chemistry. In the field, this often shows up as “green up” of plants, improved plant vigor/growth, reduced senescence and improved yields.

Visit us at corteva.us ™Trademark of Corteva Agriscience and its affiliated companies. Vydate® C-LV is a Restricted Use Pesticide.

Vydate C-LV is not registered for sale or use in all states. Contact your state pesticide regulatory agency to determine if a product is registered for sale or use in your state. Always read and follow label directions. ©2021 Corteva ®

The scientific explanation.

Calcium is a required element for tuber development.

A calcium deficiency in plants results in dividing cells being unable to stay bound together. This causes poor quality potatoes such as reduced size, growth cracks and hollow heart.

ENCOURAGE NANOCAL is a unique formulation of calcium carbonate. ®

®

Typical calcium soil additives have particle sizes of up to 200 microns, too big to be readily absorbed by roots.

NANOCAL is milled to less than one micron. This greatly expands the calcium surface area, and allows an order of magnitude more particles in solution, providing a denser field of calcium particles for uptake.

Foliar-applied calcium does not translocate to tubers.

The only efficient way to move calcium into developing tubers is through root and tuber uptake. Soil-applied NANOCAL’s particle size allows immediate movement into the meristematic region of growing roots.

Soil-applied NANOCAL calcium particles are immediately available to developing tubers.

Benefits of improved calcium uptake at tuber initiation include: • Dramatic reduction in hollow heart • Improved shelf life and storability • Better uniformity at maturity • Increased firmness • Increased yield

Learn more at oroagriusa.com

ENCOURAGE NANOCAL is a proprietary trademark of Oro Agri Inc. Always read and follow label directions.