U.S. POTATO PLANTINGS DECLINE 3.2% IN 2026

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reports that U.S. potato growers planted an estimated 873,000 acres of potatoes in 2026, a decrease of 29,000 acres (3.2%) compared with 2025.

Idaho accounted for the largest reduction, with planted acreage dropping by 15,000 acres, from 315,000 acres in 2025 to 300,000 acres this year.

Most major potato-producing states also reported fewer planted acres, including California, Colorado, Michigan, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and Wisconsin. In contrast, Washington maintained its 2025 potato acreage, joining Florida, Maine, Oregon, and Texas in reporting no change in planted area.

USDA also projects harvested potato acreage at 867,600 acres in 2026, down from 896,800 acres last year.

The reduction in U.S. potato acreage may help balance supply with market demand during the 2026 crop year. As the season progresses, growers will be watching weather conditions, crop development, and harvest yields to see how production levels ultimately compare with these planting estimates.