Colorado’s storage potato quality remains strong and prices are also very good, according to Jim Jehrlich, executive director of the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee.

In Colorado, 2019 potato tonnage produced was less than the previous year, so shipping volumes have been conservative. “We’re a little behind last year’s shipping rate,” Jehrlich said.

Colorado shippers are expected to manage inventory to last until new crop harvest begins this summer. Jehrlich said 2020 potato planting won’t begin until April. About 50,000 acres are expected to be planted.

The key potato growing district in southern Colorado has relied on a huge aquifer for irrigation over the years. That aquifer has been significantly lowered. Now, the industry is working to allow the aquifer to recover, which restrains potato planting acreage. The aquifer relies on Rocky Mountain snow melt to replenish. This winter, the snowpack is strong, Jehrlich said.