Among U.S. potato-growing states, Wisconsin ranks third, and produced 26 million cwt of potatoes in 2024, according to the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association of Antigo, WI.
That was off from 28 million cwt in 2023, a year that saw above-average yields.
The state has about 100 potato growers who produce about 63,000 acres of russet, red, white and yellow potatoes each year along with specialty varieties like blue/purple, fingerlings and little potatoes.
Most growers expect 2025 yields to be similar to last year.
Bushmans’ Inc. of Rosholt, WI started its russet harvest the first week of August, which is normal. Red and yellow harvests were already underway.
The company ships potatoes year-round, starting with shipments from the field then transitioning to storage sales. Harvesting usually wraps up around October 10. Growing conditions have been very good.
Average size and good quality were expected this year, barring unforeseen glitches prior to harvest.
Alsum Farms & Produce of Friesland, WI., sees a promising season with russet, red, yellow and specialty creamer potato varieties.
Harvest of red and yellow potatoes got underway in early August with russet potatoes kicking off the third week of August. Alsum Farms grows 2,700 acres of Wisconsin potatoes.
The operation has a year-round supply of Wisconsin russets while yellows and reds finish up by January. In the specialty category, the company offers 3-pound and 5-pound specialty creamer red and yellow potato blends.
While Schroeder Bros. Farms Inc. of Antigo, WI focuses on seed potatoes, the company also offers some red and russet potatoes for fresh market sales.
Digging started the first week of September this year as usual, and will continue until about the third week of October.
The company, which dates back to 1879, strives to complete shipping table stock by January, then transitions to seed potatoes.
The company sells mostly to brokers who, in turn, ship to retail customers.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.