Amid unprecedented challenges, the two women at the helm of the potato industry’s national organizations are demonstrating the strength of unity.
Long before the change in U.S. administration started creating economic chaos, Canada’s potato industry was already facing a year of challenges. While 2024 saw record production levels and the humble spud made a strong return to the consumer spotlight — great news overall — growers were also grappling with concerns.
Variable weather patterns, supply chain disruptions, shifting consumer preferences, regulatory demands, and the pinched labour force had growers thinking even harder about how to remain resilient while embracing change.
Amid a lot of unknowns, one thing became crystal clear: the industry can’t do it alone.
Advocacy, communication, support, unity. These aren’t buzzwords. This is what growers need to survive — and thrive.
At the forefront of this advocacy are two women whose proactive leadership exemplify the cooperative spirit essential for success. Though relatively new to their respective roles, Caleigh Hallink-Irwin, General Manager of the Canadian Potato Council (CPC), and Victoria Stamper, General Manager of the United Potato Growers of Canada (UPGC) have demonstrated they are ready — and able — to stand up for the nation’s potato industry, every day, and especially during tumultuous times.
The Art of Advocacy
Hallink-Irwin describes her role — and that of the CPC — as one of advocacy, working with government and government agency connections that have been nurtured over time.
“We need to make sure we’re getting across all the different perspectives,” she says. “Which is why communication is so crucial.”
While the on again, off again U.S. tariff threat looms over the industry right now, Hallink-Irwin says it’s only one of the issues top-of-mind for growers. A recent example is the revised National Potato Wart Response Plan, where advocates collaborated with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) to come up with a comprehensive, but fair, strategy for mitigating a serious industry threat.
“We wanted a very scientific, rational lens on that issue that wasn’t based on politics or frankly, emotion,” she says.
Getting there took time — and considerable dialogue. That’s what the job entails.
Through continuous consultations with growers and stakeholders, the CPC ensures that advocacy efforts are backed by an informed consensus, empowering growers throughout the process.
“Our members are the provincial associations,” Hallink-Irwin says. “That means we must ensure the voice of the growers reaches all levels.”
This approach builds a network that allows growers from different regions to share their insights and needs, creating a unified front when addressing national industry challenges.
Navigating Supply and Demand
The UPGC also plays a critical role in helping the industry navigate ups and downs in the marketplace: providing clarity and direction.
“We fit in providing the right information to the growers… understanding demand dynamics so they know how to manage their inventory, for example,” Stamper says. “By focussing on market supply and demand fundamentals we can help growers make informed decisions in a shifting landscape.”
This kind of information is more important than ever, especially when it comes to maintaining the valued relationships the industry has made with its international counterparts, regardless of a turbulent political climate across the border.
“At the same time, we need to operate on a business-as-usual basis, because there’s so much we can’t control,” Stamper says, reenforcing the message the UPGC has been delivering since the tariff threat reared in January.
Fostering Collaboration
Although each organization has a mandate, neither is as effective as it could be without each other.
“We are the Canadian industry,” Hallink-Irwin says. “And we must come together and figure out what’s best for the Canadian industry as a whole.”
This sentiment underscores a crucial truth: the collective power of the industry can help combat uncertainty. Hallink-Irwin and Stamper encourage dialogue and the sharing of ideas across the industry, leveraging their respective organizations to support growers during times when solidarity is paramount.
In practice, this means organizing joint meetings, seminars, and industry events where growers can interact directly with both the UPGC and the CPC, as well as other industry stakeholders. These gatherings not only foster a sense of community but also serve as platforms for disseminating critical information regarding market trends, policy changes, and emerging challenges.
“When we present a united front, we’re taken more seriously,” Hallink-Irwin says. “Policymakers respond better when they see that we are aligned and consolidated.”
Why It Matters
While external pressures such as tariffs, environmental concerns, and input costs weigh heavily on growers, Hallink-Irwin says there has been an increased focus on mental health — and that factors into her job too.
“In order to advocate effectively, I need to know how people are feeling,” Hallink-Irwin says. “It impacts everything, including how we shape our priorities and messaging.”
Both Hallink-Irwin and Stamper understand mental health is — and should be — part of their advocacy strategy, and again cite industry collaboration for being one of the keys to success. They aim to normalize conversations about mental well-being, breaking down the stigma often associated with discussing feelings of anxiety or stress, particularly in the agricultural community.
“In our industry, we’ve traditionally really valued toughness and resilience above all else. It’s time to shift that narrative,” Hallink-Irwin says. “Acknowledging mental health challenges does not diminish our strength — it enhances it.”
“When we create spaces for these conversations, it opens doors,” Stamper adds. “It shows growers that they’re not alone and that help is available.”
Hallink-Irwin and Stamper are proud to lend that support.
Looking to the Bright Side
As the industry navigates ongoing challenges, Hallink-Irwin and Stamper are quick to point out the bright spots — where their organizations also have a role to play. There is an emerging generation of farmers bringing new ideas, technologies, and passions to the industry, and that’s exciting.
“This new generation is not afraid to challenge the status quo and seek out creative solutions,” Stamper says. “They’re willing and able to make their mark.”
Stamper encourages these new growers to reach out to industry mentors and create relationships that promote collaboration and unity.
“Communities that support each other tend to prosper,” Stamper says. “By fostering a collaborative atmosphere, we enable growers to share experiences, resolve challenges, and celebrate successes collectively.”
At the same time, both leaders recognize the importance of local initiatives that promote community engagement. They highlight the role of provincial producer groups and alliances that can strengthen collective bargaining power and enable growers to tackle issues that may arise in their specific locales.
“When we leverage our collective strength, we become an undeniable force,” Stamper says.
Policy Advocacy: A Unified Voice for Change
Amid challenges and opportunities, both Hallink-Irwin and Stamper emphasize the importance of policy advocacy that aligns with the needs of growers. They understand that effective representation at the governmental level is essential for securing the resources and support necessary for the industry’s future.
Hallink-Irwin explains that part of her work involves building relationships with policymakers, ensuring that the voices of potato growers are represented in crucial discussions. “We actively engage in lobbying efforts and policy advocacy — working with government agencies and politicians to ensure their concerns are heard.”
And that goes beyond our Canadian borders.
“We have cultivated long-term relationships with U.S. counterparts, and it is critical to maintain that dialogue,” Stamper says. “When issues arise, we stand better prepared to address them together, rather than siloed by borders.”
By participating in trade missions, industry forums, and bilateral discussions, both leaders work to bridge gaps between growers and policymakers. They recognize that understanding each party’s concerns is key to crafting policies that benefit the agricultural sector as a whole.
This concerted effort to foster relationships ensures that the potato industry can navigate challenges effectively while continuing to innovate for the future.
Looking Ahead: Cultivating Resilience and Growth
As Hallink-Irwin and Stamper look toward the future, they remain steadfastly focused on their goals: fostering collaboration, advocating for growers, and ensuring that the Canadian potato industry not only endures but thrives.
“We want to empower our growers to embrace change, face challenges head-on, and navigate the complexities of today’s agricultural landscape,” Hallink-Irwin says. “In partnership lies strength — strength to advocate, innovate, and ensure a sustainable future.”
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