An above average crop should translate into more Maine potato shipments this season.
The Maine Farmers Exchange of Presque Isle reports the past three seasons were plaqued by drought, unlike 2021 which has had adequate rain and good weather.
Shipment should continue into May 2022. Maine potato acreage for the fresh market is estimated between 12,000 and 15,000 acres out of the state’s total of 50,000 acres.
Cambridge Farms of Presque Isle reported a good growing season with great quality potatoes in storages.
Green Thumb Farms Inc. of Fryeburg, ME points out potatoes were in storage by mid-October with great quality.
The Maine Potato Exchange notes with the cost of transportation increasing each year the state has an advantage of being eight to 16 hours from one third of the nation’s population.