Alberta's 50 year old potato industry produced a record amount of spuds last year.

According to a report by ATB Financial, Alberta produced just over 2 billion pounds last year, putting the Province in third place behind Manitoba and the number one potato producer, Prince Edward Island.

Executive Director of the Potato Growers of Alberta, Terence Hochstein, said yields have increased with the use of new technology and better growing techniques.

"It's something our growers strive for. They're very proud of their industry, they continue to be sustainable, provide decent income for themselves, their families, their workers, and as long as we can continue to grow, we'll be doing alright."

Hochstein added, the Province is currently growing about 53,500 acres of potatoes for the fresh, processing and seed markets.

"We continue to grow, year over year, some years more than others, and now all of a sudden we're recognizable, we're a big contributor to the Alberta economy."

The report also shows Alberta’s spud industry has grown by 132 per cent over the last two decades,compared to an increase of 35 per cent in Manitoba and a decrease of 20 cent in production from PEI.

 

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