If Family Feud had a “foods grown in Florida” category, it’s likely oranges would take the top spot and that potatoes would yield few points; but the Sunshine State has a long history with the potato and continues to grow them on tens of thousands of acres each year.
Theย U.S. Department of Agriculture announced today that they are seeking Floridian nominations for the US Potato Board, which is composed of producers, importers and a public member who each serve three year terms.
The Board is looking to fill 59 producer seats in various states including Florida. Nominees must have completed applications by July 1, 2013.ย
Although potato acres in South and Southwest Florida have dwindled in recent years, North Florida’s production has been steady for decades.
Nevertheless there are many challenges to potato farming in Florida, such as finding a balance between marketing and overproduction, blight, and educating consumers about the industry. Other issues include labor and environmental regulations, and food safety and fumigant rules from the EPA.
Visit www.uspotatoes.com for more information.
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