The United Potato Growers of Canada (UPGC) has revised its potato production forecast, reflecting changes in the processing sector. The latest estimates indicate a downward adjustment of approximately 800 cwt compared to the September forecast. While this represents a decrease, the overall production is still projected to increase by 2.6% compared to the previous year, reaching a record high for the country.
Harvest challenges have been observed in the eastern provinces, including Prince Edward Island (PEI), New Brunswick, and Quebec, due to adverse weather conditions. PEI, in particular, faced rain and snow during the final stages of harvesting, raising concerns about the storability of remaining Burbank potatoes. New Brunswick experienced wet conditions throughout the growing season, with the last three weeks of October crucial for the overall crop. In contrast, Quebec benefited from favorable harvest weather and is nearing completion of harvesting the storage crop.
Retail prices for potatoes across Canada have shown relative stability, with prices for a 10 lb bag averaging $5.38 for russets, $6.16 for reds, $4.66 for yellows, and $4.45 for whites. The oversupply situation in the Pacific Northwest has led to the destruction of a significant quantity of potatoes, contributing to the current potato glut. This oversupply is expected to impact the industry in the coming year, with processors warning growers of potential cutbacks in 2024.
In the U.S. processing crop, various provinces experienced different conditions influencing the potato harvest. Ontario observed good crop conditions but faces concerns about higher gradeouts and potential storage issues due to wet conditions in the later weeks of harvest. Manitoba saw favorable yields in the processing sector, but hail storms and oversupply resulted in growers abandoning up to 2000 acres. Saskatchewan's seed crop performed well, with irrigated fields forecasting an excellent crop. Alberta faced extremely dry conditions impacting irrigation supply but still reported a good crop. British Columbia, despite minimal rain, reported an excellent crop.
Despite challenges in specific regions, the overall potato production in Canada is expected to be the highest ever recorded, demonstrating the industry's resilience amid diverse weather conditions and market dynamics.
Source: unitedpotatocanada.com