MOSES LAKE — Potato season in Washington is a crucial time for farmers and the economy. Potatoes have been a staple crop in the state since 1792. According to Dale Lathim, Executive Director of the Potato Growers of Washington, this season has been going well so far. 

Although fewer potatoes were contracted this year, the yield is expected to be high, with an estimated production and sale of around 93 million pounds of potatoes and 150,000 acres of crops. The first yield from June and the beginning of July exceeded expectations due to sunny weather followed by cooler temperatures, which benefited the crops. 

“The early crops were a hit,” Lathim said. 

However, the second round of crops is anticipated to be at or below average due to the excessive heat experienced in July, particularly in the Tri-Cities area where there were 17 days with temperatures exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit said Lathim. This heat caused the potatoes to dry out and impeded growth during that period.

Furthermore, a canal break in the East Columbia Basin affected over 100,000 acres of agricultural land, including several potato crops. While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed, the crops were without water for six days said   Jennifer Korfiatis, a specialist at the East Columbia Basin Irrigation District s Fortunately, the potato crops were irrigated before the canal broke, which should help mitigate the impact of the water shortage said Lathim.

Potatoes play a significant role in Washington’s economy Lathim said, providing 32,000 jobs and contributing $7.35 billion to the state’s economy. Most Washington’s potatoes, 85%, are used for frozen potato processing, followed by 7% for the fresh market and 5% for chipping potatoes. 

These potatoes are consumed domestically and exported throughout North America and various other countries, including Japan according to Lathim. Moreover, most potato farms in Washington are family-owned or operated, with only one manufacturer not falling into this category.

Bouchey Potatoes in Yakima County, Washington, has reported a successful growing season according to Marita Caballos. Despite previous years striking hardships and smaller crop return due to the pandemic, the farm has begun to regrow and produced many crops. This year, the farm has harvested almost 250 acres of crops but according to Ceballos, there are usually 600 to 700 acres of crops harvested at their farm. 

“Our potatoes are packed fresh,” Ceballos said. “That makes a huge difference on the quality and taste.” 

The farm, which offers both export and local sales, has a little retail shop where customers can purchase their potatoes directly, she said. The process at Bouchey Potatoes begins early in the morning with harvesting, followed by deliveries and sales throughout the day. Ceballos notes that there haven’t been any major challenges this year or last, and she expects the upward trend to continue.

Washington’s potatoes are renowned for their exceptional quality, ranking first in per-yield production compared to other potato-producing regions. The state predominantly grows varieties such as Russet Burbank, Ranger Russet, and Russet Norkotah, showcasing their commitment to high-quality potato production. According to Lathim, Washington’s success in potato cultivation is not only due to expertise but also the favorable climate and soil conditions in the region.

“We have the highest quality and yield of anywhere in the world,” Lathim said. “It’s not necessary because we are the best but because we are just blessed.” 

The farms in Washington practice sustainable methods to maintain healthy soil, including rotating potato crops every three to four years and planting green manure crops in between to replenish soil nutrients. While Lathim acknowledges that perfection is unattainable, he emphasizes the ongoing commitment to land stewardship.

“I am not going to say we are perfect,” Lathim said. “However, we will continue to go down and take care of the land we are blessed with."