Each year, the federal appropriations process provides an opportunity to ensure that key programs supporting Washington’s potato growers continue to receive the investment and policy support they need. For the Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC), that means working closely with our Congressional delegation to advocate for priorities that strengthen research, protect market opportunities, and support the long-term sustainability of agriculture in the Columbia Basin.

On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, Temple Grandin will deliver the inaugural Cashup Davis Family Endowed Lecture at Washington State University in the CUB Senior Ballroom. Grandin, an internationally known author, inventor, and professor of animal science, will present her talk, “The World Needs All Kinds of Minds,” from 6:00–7:30 p.m.

The Washington State Potato Foundation (WSPF) is now accepting applications for its Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship Program for the 2026–27 school year. This opportunity is designed to support students from potato growing regions who are pursuing careers in agriculture.

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Specialty Crop Aid is providing $1 billion in one-time economic assistance through the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers Program for eligible specialty crops and sugar not covered under the Farmer Bridge Assistance program.

Washington potato growers saw strong support from Congress this week as lawmakers urged the Administration to prioritize opening Japan’s market to U.S. fresh table stock potatoes.

Washington state’s Refrigerant and Air-Conditioning Management Platform (RAMP) has completed recent system updates, and all functions are now available. Growers and facility operators can now register facilities and submit required annual reports through the platform. This update is particularly relevant for potato storage facilities that fall under the state’s medium facility category.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced enrollment dates for 2026 Continuous and General Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), offering Washington producers opportunities to put marginal or environmentally sensitive acres to work through conservation. Offers for CRP will be accepted by USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA).

Each year, the National Potato Council (NPC) hosts its Washington Summit in Washington, D.C., bringing together potato growers and industry leaders from across the country to engage directly with policymakers on the issues shaping the future of American agriculture. The Summit provides an opportunity for growers to discuss, define, and advocate for the policy priorities that impact their businesses and protect their ability to farm. During our time in Washington, D.C., our group met with 11 of the 12 members of Washington’s congressional delegation to discuss a range of issues important to growers across the state.

The Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC) is seeking nominations for five commissioner appointments in Washington State.

Washington State University is once again preparing for the 2026 Commercial Potato Seed Lot Trial, an important industry program funded by Washington potato growers to provide independent evaluations of seed quality before planting decisions are made.

Washington State University (WSU) is conducting a survey titled Insect Pest Management Practices: National Survey of Potato Growers as part of a large multi-state research project aimed at better understanding U.S. potato growers’ experiences, decision-making, and perspectives related to insect pest management including concerns about regulatory uncertainty and potential restrictions on neonicotinoid use.