US Potato Growers fear Over-production in 2009

Anyway you slice it, dice it, mash it or fry it, a new survey by the Idaho Potato Commission reveals American's favorite vegetable is the potato. And, despite February being Potato Lover's Month, growers are worried they won't break even on this year's crop.

Growers said the economy puts them in a tight spot.

"These are unprecedented economic conditions. No one even knows how to forecast where this thing could end up or what's going to happen,"said Jerry Wright, CEO and President of the United Potato Growers of Idaho. "all we know is the economy is definitely slowing down our businesses."

The economy is changing the way people eat potatoes. Growers saw four years of unprecedented profits because they controlled supply and demand. But, this year, demand is expected to be down. To make a profit, the United Potato Growers of Idaho say they should plant 5 to 7 percent less than they did last year.

"Growers realistically are looking at lower profits next year. Maybe even serious losses if they plant the number of potatoes they all are intending to plant,"said Wright.