Several times a year I have the opportunity to meet with Idaho potato growers, processors and shippers to share details of the Idaho Potato Commission’s (IPC) annual consumer, foodservice, retail and international marketing programs, present the new television commercial, and talk one-on-one with as many as possible about industry opportunities and challenges. At each of these meetings I also introduce the nine commissioners who are appointed by Idaho’s governor to represent the industry members and be their voice at the monthly Commission meetings in Eagle, Idaho.
My first presentation each year is at the Idaho Grower Shippers Association’s (IGSA) annual meeting held in Sun Valley, Idaho. The IPC, a major sponsor of the meeting, hosts a breakfast for all attendees where the marketing plan for the fiscal year is unveiled.
The marketing plan is presented again at the IPC’s annual Whistle Stop Tour, an event I initiated when I started working at the IPC 11 years ago to help improve communication between the IPC and the industry. The Tour has evolved over the years and currently consists of two meetings that take place on one day. The first lunch meeting is open to all Idaho potato growers and is held in conjunction with the United Potato Growers of Idaho meeting. The second presentation, which is a dinner, is tied to the IGSA meeting. However, Idaho industry members can attend either meeting. Every year, we consistently register between 90 and 100 attendees for each meeting, many of whom were unable to attend the IGSA annual meeting in Sun Valley.
On Jan. 27, I will present the marketing program for a third time at the annual Legislative Dinner in Boise, Idaho. More than 500 key influencers, government officials and industry members will attend.
Throughout the year we strive to reach as many people as possible to make them aware of and support the IPC’s marketing initiatives that position the Idaho potato as a premium product and maintain its standing as one of the most recognized and respected brands in the world.
To help us reach those who are unable to attend any of the meetings mentioned above, we have a dedicated staff member, Travis Blacker, who represents the IPC in eastern Idaho. The industry relations director position was established seven years ago and has enabled the IPC to more easily share updates on its marketing programs, demonstrate how funds are being used, and most importantly, listen and respond to industry issues and concerns.
Blacker also oversees three committees that focus on different aspects of the industry:
- Agriculture Affairs Committee
Committee mission: Provide input on many issues relating to farming practices including, but not limited to, environmental, legislative and regulatory, and immigration and labor. The committee also provides guidance on GAP and sustainability programs.
- Marketing Committee
Committee mission: Provide input on the overall marketing programs for fresh and processed potato products that are sold domestically and internationally.
- Research and Education Committee
Committee mission: Provide input on basic research funding for industry identified priorities including disease management, variety improvement and development, pest resistance, integrated pest management, input management, etc.
These committees provide a forum for discussion and idea exchange, and they offer a unique venue for developing leadership within the industry. Many committee members go on to serve on national organizations such as the United States Potato Board and the National Potato Council.
I encourage Idaho industry members interested in participating on these committees to contact my office at (208) 334-2350 or Travis Blacker at (208) 514-4236.
The entire IPC staff is always available to answer questions and/or provide information concerning our programs to support Idaho potatoes.