Federal investment supports potato breeding research and facility upgrades
The potato industry in Idaho is set to benefit from a major federal investment aimed at strengthening research and innovation. A total of $5 million has been included in the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill to improve potato breeding facilities at the University of Idaho’s Aberdeen Research and Extension Center.
“Potatoes are one of Idaho’s most important crops, and our state leads the nation in production. The University of Idaho has conducted phenomenal research on various crops and provided valuable information to producers about these key agricultural products,” said Rep. Simpson.
He added, “As the University continues to expand its research to meet industry needs, it is crucial that funding keeps pace with the research efforts. I am proud to support this project, and as we continue to support the potato industry, we should strive for the goal that ten out of ten Americans associate potatoes with Idaho, rather than just nine out of ten!”
The funding will be used to modernize federally owned potato storage and greenhouse facilities that support research conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS). These improvements are expected to help researchers continue developing better potato varieties and address challenges facing growers.
“We are thankful for Congressman Simpson’s continued support and advocacy for Idaho agriculture. Funds secured by Congressman Simpson will allow us to make critical updates to potato storage and greenhouse facilities at our Aberdeen Research and Extension Center, advancing the essential research we conduct in partnership with USDA-ARS,” said Leslie D. Edgar, J.R. Simplot Endowed Dean of the University of Idaho College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.
She added, “These updates will allow us to better support Idaho’s $8.5 billion potato industry and ensure the U.S. has resilient potato varieties for the future.”
Potatoes remain one of Idaho’s most valuable agricultural products, and the state continues to lead the nation in potato production. Industry leaders said the investment will help ensure that research facilities keep pace with the needs of farmers and the changing agricultural landscape.
The Aberdeen Research and Extension Center is involved in a wide range of studies focused on potato diseases, pest management, weed control, cropping systems, and a new variety of developments. Researchers work to create potato varieties that deliver higher yields, improved disease resistance, and better processing and consumer qualities.
University and industry representatives welcomed the funding, noting that updated facilities will help strengthen research efforts and support one of Idaho’s most important agricultural sectors. The potato industry contributes billions of dollars to the state’s economy and plays a key role in supplying food products across the country.
Agricultural organizations also emphasized that continued investment in research is critical for increasing sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness in potato production. Improved research infrastructure can help growers respond to changing environmental conditions and market demands.
“On behalf of Idaho's potato industry, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Congressman Simpson and the House Appropriations Committee for advancing the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration Appropriations Bill that includes critical funding for the Aberdeen Research and Extension Center. This investment ensures Idaho will continue to lead the nation—and the world—in cutting-edge potato research, supporting our growers, strengthening our Nation’s food security, and driving innovation for years to come,” said Jamey Higham, Idaho Potato Commission President.
The funding measure has already been approved by the U.S. House of Representatives and remains part of the Fiscal Year 2027 agriculture spending package. Supporters believe the investment will help ensure that Idaho remains a leader in potato research and innovation for years to come.
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