Experienced Leader of the U.S. Potato Industry
At its annual summit in Washington, D.C., the National Potato Council (NPC) announced a new Executive Committee for 2025.
Ted Tschirky (Pasco, Wash.), a third-generation farmer with more than 20 years of active involvement in potato associations at the state and national level, has been elected President of the Council. Prior to his appointment, Tschirky served as vice president of trade and first vice president of the NPC, and was a member of the Washington State Potato Commission (WSPC).
Ted Tschirky’s Priorities at the NPC
Tschirky has been an active lobbyist for potato producers in Washington, recognizing the importance of building relationships with federal and state officials.
“This year, I want to encourage our executive committee and council members to engage more actively with government officials. This will help us build long-term relationships so that legislators themselves come to us for advice when developing new agricultural laws and regulations,” said the new NPC president.
A Long Journey in the Potato Industry
- The Tschirky family’s potato business began in the 1950s, when Ted’s father founded Tschirky Farms in the Columbia River Basin.
- At 18, Ted began his career growing potatoes for Lamb Weston as part of the Future Farmers of America program.
- Today, his farm primarily grows potatoes for processing and has large storage facilities.
- His wife Meredith and sons Tyler and Dylan are involved in running the business. In 2025, Ted and Meredith will celebrate 42 years of marriage.
NPC 2025 Executive Committee Members
The full membership of the governing body is:
✔ Ted Tschirky (WA) – NPC President
✔ Ben Sklarczyk (MI) – Senior Vice President, Vice President, Producer Relations and Industry Research
✔ Chris Olsen (WA) – Vice President, Environmental Affairs
✔ TJ Hall (ND) – Vice President, Finance
✔ Dean Gibson (ID) – Vice President, Legislative Affairs
✔ Brett Jensen (ID) – Vice President, Trade
✔ Bob Mattive (CO) – Past NPC President
✔ Cam Quarles – NPC CEO (non-voting member)
NPC – Washington Farmer Advocate
The National Potato Council (NPC) represents the interests of the U.S. potato industry before Congress and federal agencies. From February 24-28, 2025, the NPC Summit discussed key industry issues:
– Preserving potatoes in government nutrition programs
– Promoting free and fair trade
– Funding potato research
The future of the American potato industry
In 2025, the NPC faces a number of challenges, including trade restrictions, a changing regulatory environment, and environmental issues.
What do you think can help American potato farmers in a changing market? Share your thoughts in the comments!
