During the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) assembly in East Lansing on December 18, 2024, Mike Phillips, associated with Walther Farms, was elected to preside as chair with Ryan Pelletier, also from Walther Farms, assuming the role of vice-chair for the year 2025. The commission, integral to Michigan's potato sector, now comprises Mike Phillips (chair), Ryan Pelletier (vice-chair), Ryan Norton (immediate past chair), along with Phil Gusmano, Travis Horkey, Dale Johnson, and Matt Skogman as commissioners.
Michigan's position as a leading potato producer in the United States is notable, with the state being the premier producer of chipping potatoes nationally. The distribution of Michigan's potato output is primarily towards the chipping industry (70%), with the fresh market (20%), other processing (5%), and seed potatoes (5%) comprising the remainder. A 2024 study by Michigan State University agricultural economists highlighted the potato sector's $2.5 billion contribution to Michigan's economy, including $1.5 billion in direct economic impact.
Mike Phillips joined Walther Farms in 2011, a Michigan-based multi-state operation focused on producing chipping, fresh, and seed potatoes. Presently, he is the supply manager, having previously managed shipping and storage. Phillips, a participant in the national Potato Industry Leadership Institute (PILI) program in 2022, was elected as PILI's Grower Leader in 2023. "It's been an honor to serve on the commission the past three years, and it's an even bigger honor to be chosen to serve as chair," remarked Phillips. "Food production continues to evolve at a rapid pace, and we must come together to make sure the potato sector is at the forefront of that evolution." Ryan Pelletier, serving as vice-chair in 2025, is an agronomist and manager at Walther Farms, with participation in PILI in 2023.
Established in 1970 by the Michigan legislature, MPIC serves as the state's potato research, promotion, and education body. Dr. Kelly Turner holds the position of executive director.
Source: Potato Grower