North Dakota Faces 20–25% Potato Volume Loss as Weather Extremes Hit Red River Valley

The Red River Valley in North Dakota is bracing for a sharp decline in red and yellow potato production, with volumes expected to drop by 20–25% this season. June floods in the northern part of the valley destroyed approximately 15% of planted acreage, while the southern half endured persistent drought throughout the growing cycle. Acreage shifts reflect changing preferences: red potato plantings fell by 1,700 acres, while yellow varieties saw a modest increase of 300 acres. A rain event on September 1 arrived too late to improve tuber sizing for early-maturing varieties, though it will ease digging operations, which are set to commence around September 10.

Despite the projected supply crunch, market optimism remains muted. “Demand for red potatoes has been weak for the past year and a half,” notes David Moquist of O.C. Schulz & Sons. Industry participants emphasize that pricing dynamics have become national rather than regional, meaning local shortfalls may not automatically translate into higher farmgate prices. With buyers looking at broader supply pools, North Dakota growers face an uncertain market even as they contend with weather-related losses. The combination of lower output, weak red potato demand, and integrated national pricing structures will define the commercial landscape for the remainder of the season.