About WPVGA
The Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) was established in 1948. Although potatoes had been growing in Wisconsin for some time, it took a group of dedicated people with great foresight to organize and unify the growers of the state. In doing so, these pioneers made the industry stronger and economically viable for the generations that would follow.
The WPVGA is headquartered in Antigo, Wisconsin where it provides grower education, government support, and consumer education for the 147 grower members represented by the Association. The programs of the WPVGA are supported by a grower check-off, whereby every potato grower, by State law, contributes five cents per hundredweight (cwt) on the total of all potatoes sold. A ten-member board of directors, representing growers from all areas of Wisconsin, governs the fund distribution and oversees the programs implemented by the WPVGA staff.
Milestones in Wisconsin Potato History
- February 13, 1948 - Articles of Incorporation for Potato Growers of Wisconsin recognized by Secretary of State
- March 20, 1948 - First regular meeting of the Association held in Stevens Point, Wisconsin
- July 1948 - First issue of The Badger Common'Tater published in Antigo, Wisconsin
- December 10, 1952 - Association's name changed to Wisconsin Potato Growers Association, Inc.
- 1964 - Association's name changed to Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association, Inc.
- 1974 - Wisconsin Potato Industry Board legislation was established
- 1989 - Growers vote to make Wisconsin Potato Industry Board assessments mandatory with no refund clause
