1. To act or work together with others for a common purpose.
2. To combine so as to produce an effect.
3. To engage in economic cooperation.

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 a recent 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 the United Potato Growers of America says, “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.

Partnerships

Potato and agriculture industry collaboration and cooperation are critical for success. We work closely with the Potato Marketing Association of North America, U.S. Potato Board, National Potato Council, United States Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service 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 delegate on our Board of Directors. In return, we also send a representative to their Board meetings. United Potato Growers of Canada represents 96 percent of Canadian potato acreage. Our Board members have held conversations with growers in New Zealand, Mexico, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, France, Belgium, and some Latin American countries.

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 be victims of history.