Allen Olberding, Pasco, WA, grower, was selected to head the National Potato Council during the 2001-2002 year at the group's recent annual meeting held in San Diego, CA.
Olberding, who has served the past two years as vice president of the Environmental Affairs Committee, will lead the national group through one of its most uncertain times in potato production history.
Prices being received by non-contract growers are comparable to those received in the 1930 depression era. A tremendous growing season produced a record North American crop.
Olberding takes the reigns from Minnesota grower Chuck Gunnerson. Serving with him will be Ron Buatte, Glens Ferry, ID, environmental affairs; Brian Campbell, Exeter, ME, financial affairs; Dave Warsh, Center, CO, Grower/Public Relations; Todd Michael, Urbana, OH, legislative/governmental affairs; and Ed Macy, Culver, OR, trade affairs.