Lance Hapka, a process potato grower from Argyle, Minn., became the 64th Chairman of the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association at NPPGA's annual meeting last Tuesday.

Hapka replaces Carl Hoverson from Larimore, N.D., who served as chairman of the 243-member association this past year.

Hapka said, " I am a proud potato producer and that pride carries through to my involvement in this association. We all understand the risks and challenges involved in this industry. By working together and utilizing this organization we can strengthen our industry and increase our odds of success."

Hapka's election came on a frigid day, one that followed a Monday blizzard that added a few challenges to preparations for the week's events. The Research Reporting Conference started a tad late because of travel delays but was well attended despite the weather. The rest of the day's events were also well attended, including the banquet which hosted 220 people, one of the largest crowds in recent years.

The large crowd heard from Dr. Carl Rosen, University of Minnesota soil scientist, recipient of the NPPGA Meritorious Service Award. The evening concluded with North Dakota U.S. Senator John Hoeven summarizing the current status of the proposed new Farm Bill.

SOURCE: NPPGA News