Skip to main content

- Advertisement -

Gary Shields at the helm of Northland Potato Growers Association

By
Keith Loria

With 2024 coming to a close, things are looking up at the Northland Potato Growers Association.

First off, Gary Shields was appointed the new executive director earlier this year, bringing more than 30 years of expertise to the role. In his new position, Shields aims to leverage his extensive background, which includes 15 years in the packaging containment sector, with a keen focus on potatoes, to strengthen the association and support regional growers.

Gary Shields
Gary Shields

Before transitioning to the NPGA, Shields worked with the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association from 1989 to 2001, contributing significantly to its operations. Recently, he served as president of Potato Associates for six years.

“Our rich history in North Dakota and Minnesota makes us a leader in the industry, and we are committed to helping our growers produce the best possible potatoes,” he said. “We have great potatoes across the U.S., but we know our potatoes are special.”

The economic implications of the potato industry are vast, supporting nearly 714,000 jobs and contributing approximately $101 billion to the U.S. economy.

Shields highlighted the Red River Valley’s critical role.

“Although it might seem like a smaller player, its impact is substantial,” he said. “Depending on the growing season, the region ranks among the top five potato-producing areas in the U.S., producing over 2.6 billion pounds of potatoes annually.”

The natural rainfall in the Red River Valley, as opposed to heavily irrigated areas, lends a distinct flavor to the local potatoes.

“Our soil is second to none,” Shields said. “This nutrient-rich black loam, stemming from the remnants of Lake Agassiz, provides an ideal environment for exceptional potato cultivation.”

Despite some excessive rain affecting a few acres, Shields reported a strong potato crop for 2024.

“Our cooler summer compared to last year has been beneficial for plant health and quality,” he said, making note of the robust harvest that has emerged from the region.

Shields laid out the NPGA’s recent initiatives, which include advocating for local potato growers at state and federal levels, launching promotional campaigns to boost consumer awareness and enhancing production through research and development.

“We maintain strong relationships with universities, breeders and growers,” he said. “My job is to take the issues they face from the farm to Washington, D.C. and bring results.”

The NPGA also funds various grants aimed at improving yields, sustainability, and pest management.

In light of agricultural developments, Shields is keen on tapping into new opportunities for growers, whether in fresh production, processing, or seed markets. He emphasized the importance of involving younger generations in leadership roles within the NPGA, mentioning efforts to engage with the community.

Amidst these advancements, challenges still loom, particularly regarding transportation logistics.

“The NPGA is doing everything we can to ensure timely distribution of products,” Shields said. “Inflation and rising labor costs are also pressing issues. We see opportunities ahead, and we are actively working with economic development in our growing regions to ensure that we’re maximizing our advantages.”

As the Red River Valley potato industry transitions under his leadership, Shields is committed to nurturing its growth and solidifying its reputation as a powerhouse in potatoes.

Keith Loria

Keith Loria

About Keith Loria  |  email

A graduate of the University of Miami, Keith Loria is a D.C.-based award-winning journalist who has been writing for major publications for close to 20 years on topics as diverse as real estate, food and sports. He started his career with the Associated Press and has held high editorial positions at magazines aimed at healthcare, sports and technology. When not busy writing, he can be found enjoying time with his wife, Patricia, and two daughters, Jordan and Cassidy.

Tagged in:

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -

- Advertisement -