Co-ops, a grower’s survival kit
Cooperatives are a means for individual farm entrepreneurs to compete in a world of mega-sized organizations, but grower co-ops are surprisingly underutilized according to an article by the United States Department of Agriculture Rural Development Agency. The USDA article explains the importance of the Capper-Volstead Act, which was passed by Congress to bolster farmer’s market strength and improve their ability to deal with processors and distributors. The act was signed into law in 1922.

The USDA article explains that, “Farm operators generally have not made much use of the act due to their independent nature and to their lack of interest in taking responsibility to manage their own industry.”

Randon W. Wilson, attorney-at-law and legal counsel for United Potato Growers of America, said, “The Capper-Volstead Act can be used by agricultural producers to improve prices, bring supply into equilibrium with demand, and to otherwise assist the potato industry.” He adds, “Through the act, Congress’ intention is to bolster farmers’ market strength and improve their ability to weather adverse economic periods and to deal with processors and distributors.”

A significant piece of legislation, the Capper-Volstead Act provides authority for farmers and ranchers to join together in cooperative associations without violating antitrust laws.

Key industry associations
Potato and agriculture industry collaboration and cooperation are critical for success. We work closely with the Potato Marketing Association of North America, United States Potato Board, National Potato Council, United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, Produce Marketing Association, United Fresh Produce Association, the United Potato Growers of Canada and other organizations, vendors, media and providers to create an effective business environment.

International alliances are also important. We mentored the formation of the United Potato Growers of Canada and have invited one of their members to serve as a consultant to our Board of Directors. United Potato Growers of Canada represents 96 percent of Canadian potato acreage. Our Board members have mentored and held conversations with growers in New Zealand, Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and some Latin American countries. Due to our efforts, potato growers have formed supply management chapters in Europe.

Our ability to unite and succeed together has been hailed as an example of what growers can do to help themselves as change agents rather than victims of history.