Fresh potato growers in the Red River Valley had a variable harvest in 2020. In the northern part of the valley, farmers had a good harvest and south of Grand Forks, North Dakota, potato growers struggled. “There were potatoes left in the ground not because of excess water this year, but too little water,” said Donavon Johnson, president, Northern Plains Potato Growers Association. “Overall, harvest was much better this year than last year. We estimate there’s about 1,700 acres left in the ground this year, significantly less than last year.” The variable harvest was part of the discussion at the virtual Potato Expo. Johnson attended the event and was closely watching the farm policy discussions.
