02/06/07 United seeks 15 percent reduction

The United Potato Growers of America is calling on farmers to cut back on potato production again this year. UPGA chairman Albert Wada says the reduction this year will be larger than 2005 or last year. WADA "The target acreage reduction this year is 15 percent. We're not likely to have the European shortfall and lighter yields in the Pacific Northwest. In '05 and '06 it was ten." Through efforts of the United co-op potato prices have rebounded in the past two growing seasons. WADA "Here in Idaho we're at about a $6.50 fresh return which is right at about the cost of production including storage and shrink to date. Other areas of the country are a little bit more, some are maybe a little less depending on their freight, varieties, etc." Wada says Idaho potato growers are fortunate to have rotation crops that are bringing in good returns. WADA "With the high prices of corn, grain, and barley and alfalfa in Idaho there has to be a limit on how many acres they plant and there needs to be a market for their potatoes and with these alternative crop markets we'll be able to hold things in check and have another decent year." United co-ops nationwide, including a newly formed Southwest chapter, have agreed to the 15 percent acreage cutback. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott