Colorado’s fresh potato industry set for rebound

The fast-approaching 2010-11 potato season in the San Luis Valley of Colorado could be the antidote for the lingering headaches grower-shippers have been suffering in the wake of the 2009-10 deal.

Last year, a freeze affected the quality and size of the valley’s usually superior potatoes, and domestic overproduction resulted in low f.o.b.s.

What a difference a year makes.

“We’ve had hot days and cold nights — just absolutely perfect weather for growing conditions,” said Mark Bisel, owner and sales manager of Apex Produce Co. LLC, Center, Colo.

Sizes are going to be big too, he said. An early August check of some fields found 50-count sized tubers.

Apex markets a variety of russets including norkatohs, blazers, nuggets and classics.

There were early signs of a better season than last year.

“We were very busy during the summer,” said Angela Diera, saleswoman at Skyline Potato Co., Center. “We’re anticipating good quality, higher volume and a busy year.”