According to Farmer of the Future research, the most successful farmers practice good marketing and management, are adaptable, have a strong business sense and they aren’t afraid to seize opportunities. Speaking at the Potato Business Summit, Aimpoint Research CEO Brett Sciotto reviewed this research and also told potato growers there about 40 percent of farmers who see opportunities to get ahead in challenging times. “They’re strengthening their operations, getting more market share, are further ahead of their peers and better positioned now than ever for what’s ahead.” Attendees learned about five farmer segments including independent elites, enterprising business builders, classic practitioners, self-reliant traditionalists and leveraged lifestylers. That was something that resonated with many of the Potato Business Summit attendees, including Black Gold Farms CEO Eric Halverson. “Long-term success in the next 20 years will require adapting to change. I also thought it was interesting when Sciotto talked about farming as a business versus a lifestyle,” said Halverson. “We’re always looking at ways to improve ourselves, too. Coming to the Potato Expo is one way to improve and learn about new technology and equipment, as well as listening to our peers and others growing potatoes.” Listen to the story.