11/06/07 IEOPC sets spuds regulations

The Idaho and Eastern Oregon Potato Committee meets in Pocatello tomorrow to set the guidelines for the potato marketing order that regulates the quality of fresh market spuds that leave the state. Manager Bob Hansen says the regulations that are set by the committee become law and are carried out by state and federal inspectors. HANSEN "And it's required of all growers and shippers to adhere to that regulation whether its size, grade or quality." Guided by a 70 year old marketing order Idaho has a current standard that calls for fresh market potatoes to be at least two inches in diameter and a minimum of four ounces in weight. HANSEN "We do have a good product and ours is the highest in the nation or as high as another other in the nation. There's been some others that have moved up to meet our criteria like Washington. They now have a two inch or four ounce minimum too." An eight member committee comprised of five growers and three shippers will decide tomorrow if the standard remains as is or needs to be changed. Some fresh growers have indicated they'd like to see the minimum for US Number One potatoes raised to five ounces. Hansen says the meeting in Pocatello tomorrow is open to anyone involved in potato production for their input and suggestions. Today's Idaho Ag News Bill Scott