Wada Farms is a prime example of what can be accomplished through hard work and tireless dedication. Originally established in 1943, the company was founded by Frank Wada who immigrated to the United States from Japan in 1922.

“The first generation of Wadas started farming in San Clemente, CA,” said Eric Beck, director of marketing. “During their time there, Frank and his wife, Agnes, developed a passion for growing premium quality produce. Following the outbreak of WWII, they moved inland to avoid internment when Japanese Americans were forced to relocated from the West Coast.”

To pursue their love of farming, they ventured north to the Rocky Mountains and laid roots in the small town of Pingree, ID.

“Together, Frank and Agnes grew their first crop of Idaho Potatoes on 160 acres of rented land in the spring of 1943,” Beck said. “Today, Wada Farms is a third-generation, family-owned, vertically integrated farming operation that prides itself in maintaining a legacy of providing premium quality produce and supply chain solutions for all domestic and international produce markets.”

Promoting sustainable farming is part of the culture at Wada Farms. This involves a variety of practices that help maintain ecological balance, conserve resources and support economic viability. Practices include, but are not limited to crop rotation, integrated pest management, water management and soil health management.

“Wada partners with various agronomy focused partners to ensure we are being good stewards of the land for future generations,” Beck said.

Wada is also actively involved in various boards, commissions and organizations to show support for our local community.

“Engaging with the local community is essential for Wada to build strong relationships, enhance its brand reputation and contribute positively to society,” Beck said. “Wada acknowledges that it’s our local families and friends that help our company succeed, and we do our best to pay it forward.”

Harvest of the 2024 storage crop is underway, and the Wada team is excited to embark on another season.

“Mother Nature has kept the curve balls to a minimum, and all indicators are pointing to another manageable pile for the upcoming season,” Beck said. “With the onset of the holiday season on approach, we’re gearing up to make sure the supply chain of quality potatoes is ready to go.”

Water mitigation policy remains a top priority for Wada Farms and Beck noted the state of Idaho has been actively working with the agricultural community to find resolution on a plan that will help respond to drought conditions and manage water resources effectively for future generations.

The company has noticed a growing consumer interest in healthier food options and potatoes are being marketed as a nutritious and versatile food that can fit into diets rich in vitamins, minerals and fiber.

“Highlighting the health benefits of potatoes remains a key point of consumer influence,” Beck said. “Also, consumers remain concerned about the environmental impact of food production. Wada strives to educate on sustainable farming practices ranging from improving water management to implementing proper crop rotation to mitigate soil erosion. Consumers are becoming more conscious about food-safety. Wada has implemented systems for transparency and traceability throughout the supply chain to help boost consumer confidence in the food they eat.”

Wada remains committed to future growth by expanding into new markets, diversifying its commodity portfolio of products and services and investing in innovation to help achieve these growth centered milestones.

“We know growth isn’t possible without a commitment to sustainability and we will continue to be good environmental stewards to ensure a carbon friendly approach in our agricultural supply chain practices,” Beck said.