The potato is being recognized as the Oregon’s official vegetable.
Senator Bill Hansell (R-Athena) is a co-chief sponsor of Senate Current Resolution 3 approved in the 2023 Oregon Legislature.
During an induction ceremony hosted by the Oregon Potato Commission in Salem on Sept. 23, Hansell made the following statement: “The hardworking farmers who cultivate this crop are the backbone of our agricultural sector, and today we acknowledge their contributions by elevating the potato to its rightful status. It was an honor to sponsor SCR 3 and see this resolution come to life. This is a day of celebration not just for potato growers, but for all Oregonians.”
The potato is one of Oregon’s most important agricultural products, according to Hansell, with the state ranking number four in potato production nationwide. The industry contributes more than $200 million to Oregon’s economy annually.
About 80 percent of the potatoes in Oregon are processed. This means they are used for foods like frozen French fries and dried mashed potatoes instead of being eaten fresh, according to Oregon Agriculture in the Classroom Foundation.