At the end of August, Sterling Hill Farms will begin the harvest of its conventional white, yellow and red potatoes in Washington’s Skagit Valley. The lush location is known for production of quality agricultural products, and potatoes are no exception.

“Whites, reds and yellows will be fresh out of the field through the Christmas rush,” said Tony Wisdom, one of the company’s three partners. Sterling Hill’s white potato deal concludes at that time. But yellows and reds will be moved out of storage to fill customer demand until mid-May.

Tony Wisdom, Norm Nelson Jr. and Jim Nelson have entered their third year as partners in Sterling Hill Farms. The business is located in Washington’s Skagit Valley, and the company moves white, yellow and red fresh potatoes to its customers throughout the nation. (Photo courtesy of Sterling Hill Farms)Wisdom, Norm Nelson Jr. and Jim Nelson have entered their third year as business partners under the Sterling Hill banner. Combined, the three men have more than 78 years of potato growing, packing and shipping experience.

The 2015 potato season has been a challenging one in the Skagit Valley. As is true for other western states, Washington is experiencing drought conditions, and the valley was not spared. Wisdom said dry conditions this season are the second worst recorded since the 1980s.

“This has been an extraordinary year for the Skagit Valley,” he commented. Despite the situation, he said, “We have adequate irrigation water. All the potatoes in the Skagit Valley look really good. We have great color and great quality.” Potatoes grown in the valley have a reputation for smooth and glossy skins.

Sterling Hill markets potatoes throughout the United States to all market sectors under the “Sterling” brand and “Artisan Red” and “Artisan Gold” labels. The Artisan line of potatoes is sold in high-graphic bags that feature the farm’s history and recipes. UV protective film on the bags helps reduce greening on the potatoes.

Looking at exports, Wisdom said, “Offshore is an emerging and growing part of our business.”

The company works at customer request on marketing activities.

Wisdom encourages people to call Sales Manager David Clark to obtain information about Sterling Hill and its fresh potatoes.

The company continues its activities on Facebook and has revamped its website to update photos, grower and product information.

On another note, Wisdom would love to see National Potato Day moved from Aug. 19 to Oct. 18 in order to feature quality potatoes from the Skagit Valley. “There may be a secret movement afoot,” he laughed.