US: Washington-Oregon Potato Conference improves industry, boots economy

The Washington – Oregon Potato Conference is happening this week at the Three Rivers Convention and Toyota Center. Officials said the Washington-Oregon Potato Conference is the premier event for the potato industry in the Pacific Northwest. This year, the potato conference brought in more than 2,000 growers, suppliers, researchers and other interested parties into attendance. Executive Director for the Three Rivers Campus, Corey Pearson said this conference is one of the largest for the convention center. Pearson added the event benefits both industry members and the entire Tri-City community. “This goes so far beyond the walls of our campus,” he said. “The restaurants, the shops, this really supports a lot of businesses in our community, during a time that would be quiet otherwise.” Pearson said the event brings in about $1 million into the Tri-Cities. (KEPR)