Michigan’s U.P. Potatoes drive growth

By Andi Anderson

Potatoes are a staple in kitchens across the United States, and many of these potatoes come from Michigan, particularly the Upper Peninsula (U.P.). With a rich history of potato farming, the U.P. continues to be a vital part of Michigan’s potato industry.

Tony VanDamme, a third-generation potato farmer in the St. Nicholas area, reflects on his family’s deep-rooted connection to potato farming. “Our family has been growing russet potatoes commercially for generations,” VanDamme said. “The climate here in the northern latitude is ideal for producing a quality crop, and we take pride in our potato tradition.”

Recently, around 50 potato growers, their families, and other industry professionals gathered at VanDamme Farms in Rock, Michigan, for the annual Potato Field Day.

Organized by the Michigan Potato Industry Commission and the MSU Upper Peninsula Research and Extension Center (UPREC), the event served as a platform for discussing the latest research and developments in the industry.

UPREC Director James DeDecker highlighted the significance of potatoes in U.P. agriculture, a tradition that spans over 150 years. He emphasized ongoing research efforts aimed at developing new potato varieties with specific attributes, such as disease resistance and improved processing quality.

Kelly Turner, Executive Director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission, provided updates on EPA regulations and discussed the economic importance of the potato industry to the state.

“The potato industry in Michigan generates $2.5 billion in economic impact annually, supporting nearly 22,000 jobs,” Turner said. “Michigan is proudly known as the ‘chipping capital of the nation,’ with 70% of our potatoes used for making potato chips.”

Turner also emphasized the critical role the U.P. plays in producing seed potatoes, which are grown specifically for planting future crops.

The U.P.'s isolation helps ensure these seed potatoes remain disease-free, a vital aspect of the industry. Each batch of seed potatoes is tested rigorously, even sent to Hawaii for winter growth and further inspection.

As America’s number one vegetable, the future of potato farming in Michigan looks bright, with the U.P. playing a key role in sustaining and growing this essential industry.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-npantos