PEI Potato Farmers Face Challenges in 2023

0:00Prince Edward Island potato farmers took a big hit last year from drought, with production dropping 15.9% to 21.8 million hundred weight, the biggest decline in the country. Now planting seasons here, and they're dealing with leftover losses plus skyrocketing costs from the war in Iran, like pressure fuel for tractors and fertilizer bills that keep climbing. Farmers like Guy Kudmore at his sea potato operation say it'll squeeze the bottom line, but insurance helps cushion the blow, and he's not backing. Downplanting to plant all 200 acres to keep customers loyal. The smaller crop didn't boost prices though, since supplies stayed solid across North America, putting pressure on the market, according to the PEI. Potato boards general manager Greg Donaldson. Growers are ramping up soil health tweaks, drought-resistant crops, and interest in smart irrigation to fight climate change, staying cautious yet. hopeful as spring flips the page for a kinder summer ahead.

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