Diminishing supply fails to lift Idaho spud prices

Idaho potato farmers say favorable weather conditions have helped them get an early start to planting their 2016 crop. They’re becoming concerned, however, that prices of their 2015 spuds remain stagnant, despite what appears to be a favorable supply situation. Growers throughout the state and Idaho Potato Commission President and CEO Frank Muir estimate planting started about a week ahead of the usual schedule this spring. According to the USDA’s April 1 stocks report, shippers have been steadily moving through their supply of 2015 spuds, which industry officials say should translate to stronger spud prices throughout the summer, until the new crop is harvested. That hasn’t happened, yet. More