BALCOM NAMED 2026 POTATO PERSON OF THE YEAR

Fourth-generation Pasco, Washington potato grower Jared Balcom has been named the 2026 Potato Person of the Year by The Packer and the National Potato Council, recognizing his long-standing leadership and advocacy on behalf of U.S. potato growers.

Balcom serves as president of Balcom & Moe and has held several key leadership roles with the National Potato Council, including president and vice president of trade affairs. He has been deeply involved in advancing international market access for U.S. potatoes—most notably contributing to efforts that helped open the Mexican market to U.S. fresh potatoes in 2022. He continues to support ongoing work to secure access to Japan.

In 2025, Balcom was appointed to the Agricultural Policy Advisory Committee by then-U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack and later reappointed by U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai, where he advises federal officials on agricultural trade policy.

Grounded in his experience as a fourth-generation grower, Balcom brings a “Farmer First” perspective to trade missions and policy discussions, emphasizing humility, honesty, and the importance of sharing real farm experiences with decision-makers. He notes that progress in trade policy often requires patience and long-term commitment, encouraging growers to stay engaged and recognize incremental wins.

Balcom also stresses that growers themselves are powerful policy advocates, as firsthand production experience carries significant credibility with lawmakers. Reflecting on more than two decades of involvement, he points to a more unified U.S. potato industry—one better positioned to influence policy and expand global opportunities.

Looking ahead, Balcom hopes to see the next generation of leaders build on this momentum to ensure continued success for the potato industry and the farm families who drive it forward.