Idaho potatoes in a box

Potato industry opportunities and challenges are among topics to be discussed during the Idaho Grower Shippers Association’s 96th annual convention, slated for Aug. 27-30 at Sun Valley Resort.

“Idaho potatoes have become a global commodity,” said Shawn Boyle, the association’s executive director and general counsel. “The demand for Idaho potato products, including fresh potatoes, is significant in foreign markets. For example, the demand in Mexico for fresh Idaho potatoes has been significant.”

Mexico just over fully opened access for U.S. fresh potatoes a little more than two years ago. Previously, access was limited to the U.S. border area. A panel to include National Potato Council, Potatoes USA and Idaho Potato Commission officials is slated to discuss the Mexico fresh market.

Efforts to gain fresh-market access to Japan also will be discussed. NPC leaders and members of Idaho’s congressional delegation, among others, continue to promote access.

Many share a goal to continue to provide Idaho potatoes “throughout the world and reach those markets where there is high demand for them,” Boyle said.

As for recently strong international demand, “part of it is that the IPC has done such a good job marketing Idaho potatoes,” he said. “You can travel anywhere in the world and that’s what we’re famous for.”

Domestic and international marketing efforts by the state Potato Commission are among convention presentation topics.

Other topics are to include marketing to young consumers, potato transport, and efforts to move the large 2023 crop before the current growing season’s harvest starts — which has occurred, Boyle said.

“It’s really impressive that the industry was able to move the amount of product it was, consistently, and not have to deal with any extremely drastic dumping or waste of potato product,” he said.

The state Potato Commission, NPC, Potatoes USA, United Potato Growers of America, Idaho Association of Commerce and Industry and Southern Idaho Potato Cooperative participate in the convention, providing content and support.

Networking and recreation opportunities are offered at the convention in addition to industry updates. More than 300 people attend, traditionally. Gov. Brad Little addresses the group, which IGSA greatly appreciates and “really demonstrates how he values agriculture in our state,” Boyle said.

Proceedings start with an Aug. 27 reunion dinner, which does not require convention registration.

The reunion dinner is tailored to past board members and award winners, as “we just want to remind them they are important to us” though “all IGSA friends and family are invited,” Boyle said.

Information: Boyle, 208-529-4400 or sboyle@idahoshippers.org.