“Our team always works closely together to hit the ground running with a smooth, efficient start to harvest,” said Alex Gumz, marketing specialist for the grower of red and yellow potatoes, onions and other vegetables.

She said timely rains and moderate temperatures helped the crop progress well.

“Our potatoes are looking strong across the board — good sizing, clean skins and consistent quality,” Gumz said. “We take a lot of pride in maintaining healthy soils and responsible inputs, and that’s reflected in the crop’s performance.”

Gumz Farms plants about the same acreage of potatoes each season, growing several varieties of reds and yellows tailored to its customer base, she said. Red varieties comprise about 70 percent of its crop, and yellow potatoes make up the remainder. Gumz said that varies slightly from season to season, depending on demand and performance.

While Russets dominate overall production in the United States, Gumz said consumer interest in yellow and specialty potatoes has grown in recent years.

“Consumers are looking for more flavor, unique textures and visually appealing options,” she said. “At the same time, red potatoes remain a reliable favorite for many families.

“We keep a close eye on these trends and work with our retail partners to ensure we’re meeting customer expectations, Gumz said.

Five-pound poly bags — an ideal size for families — continue to dominate retail produce departments. Smaller packs, however, have seen a bump in popularity in recent years.

“We are seeing a gradual increase in demand for smaller pack sizes, especially 3-pound and 1.5-pound bags,” Gumz said. “Convenience, portion control and reducing food waste are all driving that shift. We’re adapting accordingly with flexible packing capabilities to meet those needs.”

Just as harvest was beginning this season the Potato Association of America’s annual meeting was held in Madison, WI. Attendees had the opportunity to visit area potato growers, including Gumz Farms. About three dozen U.S. and international industry members toured the farm.

Gumz said the opportunity to meet researchers, growers and other industry experts was much appreciated.

Gumz Farms’ mint distillation facility generated a lot of interest and questions from the group.

“It was a great way to showcase another facet of our diverse farming operation and highlight how we integrate specialty crops like mint into our overall production,” Gumz said.

Gumz Farms highlighted its sustainability initiatives as well.

“We also discussed soil conservation, crop rotation and our water management practices,” she said. “Attendees showed strong interest in our stewardship programs and how we integrate sustainability into every decision — from seed to shipping.”

The company first implemented integrated pest management practices over two decades ago.

“That includes careful monitoring, targeted interventions, beneficial insect habitats and rotation strategies that minimize pesticide use,” Gumz said. “It’s all part of our mission to be responsible stewards of the land for future generations.”

Walmart recently recognized Wisconsin’s Healthy Grown initiative, a program that certifies documented IPM, sustainability and ecological restoration efforts for growers of potatoes, onions and carrots in Wisconsin. Walmart’s recognition allows Healthy Grown-certified products access to the Walmart U.S. Pollinator Health Position as fulfilling the retailer’s requirements for an IPM program.

Walmart’s acceptance of Healthy Grown standards is a “huge validation” of the work that growers like Gumz Farms has been doing for decades, Gumz said.

“Healthy Grown isn’t just a label, it’s a commitment to farming in a way that’s better for the land, our team and our customers,” she said. “We’ve been implementing IPM practices for over 20 years.”

That work includes careful monitoring, targeted interventions, beneficial insect habitats and rotation strategies that minimize pesticide use.

“It’s all part of our mission to be responsible stewards of the land for future generations,” Gumz said.

The fifth-generation farm includes multiple family members involved in daily operations, from crop production and logistics to sales and sustainability. “Our family’s values are at the core of everything we do, and we believe in growing not only food, but relationships — with our employees, our customers and our community,” she said.