This week, the Wisconsin Senate passed bipartisan legislation to help ensure the state remains a national leader in potato production.
Last year’s total acreage was valued at $320 million. Wisconsin is the third-largest potato producer in the country and a top-five state in generating seed potatoes.
Author Sen. Patrick Testin says a reason why Wisconsin’s potato industry has remained so strong over the decades is the use of clean, pathogen-free seed potatoes. These seeds are certified by the Wisconsin Seed Potato Certification Program.
“But, just like in any industry, there are always a few bad actors out there who do not follow the rules,” Testin says. “Such was the case recently when a couple of residents planted seed potatoes in violation of state statutes and endangered the viability of the entire crop across Wisconsin.”
He says that under the state’s existing framework, the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection did not successfully enforce seed potato laws.
“Instead of implementing new regulations on potato farmers, Senate Bill 164 takes a practical and proactive approach by increasing penalties and providing DATCP with clear enforcement mechanisms to investigate and contain potential threats to certified seed potato crops,” Testin says. “Ensuring their health, traceability, and integrity are vital to maintaining both the quality and reputation of Wisconsin-grown potatoes.”
Learn more: https://www.midwestfarmreport.com/2025/04/03/senator-testin-introduces-seed-potato-legislation/
