News
USDA announces $340.6M in disaster relief for farmers, ranchers
The USDA has announced $340.6 million in disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers in rural communities affected by natural disasters — including hurricanes since 2022 — through the agency’s Disaster Assistance Fund. USDA Secretary Brooke... more
Pennsylvania takes potato spotlight; tariff negotiations with Japan begin
Last week, the executive director of Pennsylvania Co-Operative Potato Growers emphasized the need for specialty crop funding during a roundtable discussion with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins and other congressional officials at a dairy farm in Myerst... more
McCain Foods, Chicago Cubs team up for Summer Fry Days
McCain Foods is partnering with the Chicago Cubs to serve its SureCrisp Fries at Wrigley Field this season. SureCrisp Fries’ recipe keeps fries crispy longer than traditional fries, according to McCain. The fries will be sold at most Wrigley Fie... more
Maine Potato Board looking to fill pair of positions
The Maine Potato Board has two open positions. The organization is seeking a program and promotions coordinator as well as a greenhouse/laboratory assistant. The programs and promotions coordinator will help tell the story of Maine potatoes, champ... more
Grand Forks officials tour Belgian processor building new facility in North Dakota
Grand Forks, North Dakota officials returned from a tour of Belgian-based potato processor Agristo impressed with the company’s cleanliness and culture. City representatives traveled to Belgium earlier this month to visit Agristo, which announce... more
Trump floats pathway to legal status for undocumented workers
President Donald Trump has suggested a plan that could allow undocumented agricultural workers who voluntarily leave the country to gain legal status if they re-enter through a formal process. During an April 10 Cabinet meeting, Trump suggested ... more
Most reciprocal tariffs paused for 90 days; uncertainty remains
A 90-day pause on increased reciprocal tariffs for most U.S. trading partners has offered a temporary reprieve amid escalating global trade tensions, though uncertainty remains. The April pause excludes China, which will now face a 125% tariff ra... more
Michigan’s potato assessment cap to rise following tabulation error
A tabulation error means that Michigan’s potato assessment cap will be raised after all. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) notified the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) on April 4 that an error was fo... more
Aldi recalls product containing baby potatoes
Aldi has recalled a product containing baby potatoes because it contains milk which is not mentioned on the label, presenting a possible health risk to those with an intolerance to milk. Inspired Cuisine Baby Potatoes with Herbs and Butter has bee... more
NPC issues guidance on tariff impacts
Based on information from the Office of United States Trade Representative (USTR) and other currently available data, a leading potato advocacy organization is issuing guidance on tariff impacts. The National Potato Council guidance includes an un... more
