In northern New England, the decline of dairy farming has opened up opportunities for the cultivation of vegetable crops, including potatoes. Jay Savage, from Savage Farms LLC based in Deerfield, Massachusetts, has ventured into potato farming by acquiring former dairy farms in Walpole, New Hampshire, and Chester, Vermont. In Walpole, Savage has initiated the cultivation of 185 acres of potatoes, while the Chester farm is currently growing corn, with plans to transition to potato farming in the future.
The proximity of these farms to the Connecticut River, known for its stone-free, fertile soils, presents an ideal setting for vegetable production. Savage, whose family has been involved in farming since 1910, sees the expansion into New Hampshire and Vermont as a natural progression of their potato and sod business. Despite the challenges of fluctuating prices and strict market standards for appearance, Savage is optimistic about the future of potato farming in the region.
The Savage family farm, with a history of tobacco and potato farming, has evolved over the years to include sod production. Currently, the farm dedicates 700 acres to potato cultivation, with the produce being distributed to various processors and packers in Pennsylvania. The introduction of storage facilities is a planned future enhancement to improve efficiency and market timing.
While Massachusetts maintains a steady potato production area, New Hampshire's potato acreage is significantly smaller. However, initiatives by farmers like Savage are expected to increase the state's potato cultivation. In contrast, Maine's potato industry experienced a successful year, with production and yield increases attributed to favorable weather conditions. The state's focus on irrigation and the development of resilient potato varieties like the Caribou Russet have contributed to its success in the sector.
As potato farming in New Hampshire and Vermont gains momentum, the region's agricultural landscape continues to diversify, offering new opportunities for growers and contributing to the local economy.
Source: Farm Progress