Bridging the Optimism Gap: Insights from the Spud Sector Survey

National Potato Council CEO Kam Quarles and Spudman Managing Editor Melinda Waldrop join the Eye on Potatoes Podcast to break down the inaugural 2026 Spud Sector Survey. This first-of-its-kind report moves past headlines to reveal the economic heartbeat of America’s potato growers. Discover how NPC uses this "hard data ammunition" to advocate for our family farms in Washington, D.C. The group discusses the striking "optimism gap," where growers feel confident in their own operations but fear for the broader industry’s future. From the 82.9% of growers facing inflationary disruptions to the "essential bridge" of federal emergency aid, this episode provides a strategic roadmap for the ongoing efforts to Stand Up for Potatoes on Capitol Hill.Download the Spud Sector Survey here: spudman.com/spudsector.