Although a time frame was not given, the National Potato Council agreed to move its office from Denver to the Washington, DC, area during its annual meeting July 11-14 in Bellingham, WA.
The move is expected some time in the next few months, but no timeline was given. Bud Middaugh, executive director, said during the meeting he was retiring next year, probably after the annual meeting in San Antonio, TX, Jan. 8-12.
Chuck Gunnerson, of the long-range planning committee, said relocation details would have to be worked out by the Executive Committee over the next few weeks. While a new director will be hired as soon as possible, it is unknown how the workload of the NPC will be handled.
Recently Dave Lavway, government relations director, resigned. This has left his position open for the past few months. He handled many EPA, FQPA and trade issues.
Middaugh said at the meeting the NPC will probably rely on the United Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Association to handle some issues in the future.