RECORD POTATO CROP EXPECTED IN 2003

The 2003 Saskatchewan potato crop is expected to be the largest on record.

The 2003 crop is expected to approach $60 million. In 1996, potato production accounted for under $19 million.

"Saskatchewan already has a strong reputation for growing quality seed, table and processing potatoes," Deputy Premier and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Clay Serby said. "The potato sector continues to expand, as farmers take advantage of the Saskatchewan climate, access to storage and increased potato acres on irrigation."

The estimate is based on projected average yields on the 14,000 acres of potatoes planted by producers in the province this year. This is an eight per cent increase over the 13,000 acres planted in 2002.

"In large part due to the willingness of producers to diversify into value-added crops, such as potatoes, and this government's commitment to support such development, farm value in potatoes has increased three-fold since 1996 in Saskatchewan," Serby said.

The growth in the potato industry is expected to continue as the industry builds capacity and more farmers grow the crop.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-5160