Jamey Higham, CEO of Idaho Potato Commission
Idaho Potato Commission increases budget following strong 2025 crop
The Idaho Potato Commission board approved an increase to its budget for the fiscal year ending August 31, following strong potato production in 2025 and continued momentum in the market. Potato production in Idaho was strong in 2025, supporting efforts to move the current crop ahead of the next planting cycle.
Jamey Higham, CEO of Idaho Potato Commission:
"We have got good momentum to move this crop and get it out of the way of the crop that is starting to be planted."
The commission is funded by a tax levied on all Idaho-grown potatoes, currently set at USD 0.125 per hundredweight. These funds are allocated to marketing, research and education programs. The annual budget is approximately USD 15 million.
Budget increase and allocation
Board members approved an amendment to increase the current budget by USD 610,000. The additional funds include USD 100,000 each for retail and foodservice promotion, USD 35,000 for commissioner travel, and USD 375,000 to retire a funding obligation related to a seed potato germplasm laboratory located at the University of Idaho campus in Moscow. The commission previously had three years remaining on a 10-year commitment to support the laboratory, contributing USD 125,000 annually.
Funding sources and future opportunities
The budget increase is supported by tax revenue generated from the larger 2025 crop, as well as current and anticipated income from the "World Famous Potatoes" license plate program introduced on July 1.
Jamey Higham:
"By not having the University of Idaho obligation next year, we can find more opportunities for research, education and promotion."
Additional promotional activities may include collaboration with retailers and foodservice companies to increase Idaho potato sales, as well as incentive programs linked to sales performance. The commission indicated that the updated budget will help expand marketing efforts and support continued investment in research and education across the Idaho potato industry.
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