Gov. Doyle: Announces $25,000 Grant to Boost State’s Potato Profits

Contact: Mike Bandli, Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, 608-224-5136

Carla Vigue, Office of the Governor, 608-261-2162

Potato and Vegetable Growers Receive Funding To Develop Better French Fries

ANTIGO – Governor Jim Doyle today announced the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association will receive a $25,000 grant for a project that is expected to improve profits for the state’s potato farmers and processors. Governor Doyle made the announcement on the Wild Seed Farms, Inc. near Antigo as part of Capital for the Day in Langlade and Lincoln counties.

“Potatoes are an important part of Wisconsin’s diverse agriculture economy. Wisconsin ranks third in the nation in potato production with about $200 million in sales annually,” said Governor Doyle. “This grant will help our potato farmers compete at the high-end and continue to modernize their industry.”

Potatoes are grown on 70,000 acres annually in Wisconsin with an estimated 35 to 40% of the crop being processed as French fries and other frozen processed products.

Mike Carter, Executive Director of the WPVGA and grant applicant, said the funds will be used to improve potato fry color by researching potato production practices, including irrigation, harvest and storage management. The color of fried potatoes affects their value to the processor.

“Good fry color adds value to Wisconsin potatoes and impacts the bottom line,” said Carter.

Grant funds come from the state’s Agricultural Development and Diversification grant program coordinated by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection. This is one of 18 projects across the state selected for their innovation and potential for adding value to Wisconsin products, enabling farmers to compete at the high end.

Agriculture generates $51 billion for the state annually and creates jobs for close to half a million Wisconsin citizens.