U.S. Potato Board turns 40, earns praise from USDA

The U.S. Potato Board’s annual meeting March 15 started off on with some good news from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Bob Keeney, deputy administrator of fruit and vegetable programs for the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service gave the board, celebrating its 40th anniversary, high marks for its promotion programs. Keeney said the potato board is the oldest of the fruit and vegetable programs that fall under the AMS’ oversight. “Your programs are really solid,” he said.

Over the past year, the USDA’s Office of Inspector General has undertaken audits of the AMS’ research and promotion programs, and the U.S. Potato Board’s review suggest “very few changes.” Keeney didn’t specify those changes.

“We’re very proud of that report,” Keeney said March 15. “… The potato board in particular was right on the mark.”