After a very difficult year in 2023, growers in New Brunswick are optimistic for the 2024 crop year.
Planting conditions were ideal this spring and weather has cooperated so far. The potato belt has received timely rains, and the crop is currently 7-10 days ahead of an average year.
Indications during planting were that processors in would need the same volume as 2023 and growers planted to the needed volume even though the contracts were not settled before planting ended. Processors are busy running the remaining 2023 crop in the province and have slowed down the importation of raw from the western provinces.
In the table sector, packers are slowly marketing the remaining crop in inventory. Demand has been slower than usual, but packers remain optimistic that demand will pick up soon.
Following a very difficult year crop year in 2023 due to wet conditions throughout the province, and reduced yield because of that drought, there is hope amongst the growers that this will shape up to be a “normal” year. Although there is still a lot of growing season left, the start is certainly a pleasant welcome.
By Matt Hemphill, executive director of Potatoes New Brunswick
