According to the Oregon Potato Commission, the state produces more potatoes per acre than Idaho, contributing $200-$225 million annually.
PORTLAND, Ore. — Idaho might be the first state that jumps to mind when people think of potatoes, but Oregon’s potato industry can more than hold its own. In fact, Oregon is one of the top producers in the country, growing more potatoes per acre than Idaho, according to Gary Roth, executive director of the Oregon Potato Commission.
It goes without saying, but Roth knows a lot about Oregon’s state vegetable and its local history — including the fact that Oregon can take credit for inventing tater tots. The humble spuds are also nutritional powerhouses.
“The thing that I think most people really don’t appreciate about potatoes is just how healthy and nutritious they are,” he said. “It’s high in potassium, more potassium than a banana actually, high in Vitamin C.”
They’re also a financial powerhouse, exported internationally and serving as a big moneymaker for the roughly 100 potato farms in the state.
“The farmgate value for potatoes is about $200-$225 million depending on the year. Farmgate means that’s what the farmers across the state who produce potatoes, that’s what they receive,” said Roth.
He said every year the state produces about 2.7 billion pounds of potatoes. One of the farms producing plenty of potatoes is located on Sauvie Island.
“My great grandfather started growing potatoes back in the 20s,” said Cody Fazio, who farms with his two brothers.
He said they’re fourth generation on both his mom and dad’s side. About 40% of his farm is dedicated to growing potatoes, mainly for Tim’s Cascade potato chips.
He said the job as a potato farmer isn’t easy, especially because Oregon gets a lot of rain. But despite the difficulty, he’s still committed to the family tradition.
“Farming is not an easy lifestyle but we put our blood, sweat, and tears in this every day and I absolutely love it,” said Fazio.
If anyone needs ideas on recipes, each Fazio and Roth have their favorite way to eat them.
“We’re an Italian family and one of my favorite dishes is called gnocchi, where it’s mashed potatoes rolled up and boiled. Usually I like it with some pesto on it,” Fazio said.
“Red potatoes that my wife puts under the broiler with some salt and olive oil and a little bit of garlic, that is my favorite way to eat potatoes,” added Roth.
