“I’m excited to have the chance to give back to the industry that has done so much for me,” Michael said. “I’m looking forward to getting the inaugural North American Potato Summit started in San Antonio, TX, January 7-9, 2009.”

In 2002, Michael served as President of the National Potato Council (NPC) and had worked on beginning an industry wide trade summit encompassing all potato production sectors. With the formation of the new USPB Frozen Process Growers Committee in 2007, the need to have one main industry meeting was clarified.

“Serving on the USPB Executive Committee is also an exciting opportunity to help unveil the new “Potatoes…Goodness Unearthed™” campaign,” Michael said. “I’m looking forward to helping the industry incorporate this valuable consumer messaging tool to stabilize and promote increased consumption.”

Michael farms with his two brothers, Scott and Kurt, on a 2,500 acre farm originally started by his father. During college, the brothers formed Michael Farms, Inc., a family farming corporation. Together, they grow White, Yukon Gold and Red potatoes. They also produce green beans, sweet corn and cabbage, all of which is grown for fresh market use and packed at the farm.