Key Points
- The Diercks family has been growing potatoes in Wisconsin for nearly 100 years, with four generations leading the state potato association.
- Steve and his son Andy continue the family tradition, innovating in water management and collaborating with University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers.
- Wisconsin potato growers produced 28.8 million cwt of potatoes in 2025, ranking the state third in the U.S.
The Diercks Family's Potato Growing Legacy
The Diercks family has been growing potatoes in Wisconsin for nearly 100 years, with four generations leading the state potato association. Steve and his son Andy continue the family tradition, innovating in water management and collaborating with University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers.
Coloma Farms, the family-owned potato farm, is located in Waushara and Adams counties, Wisconsin. The farm operates on 2,700 contiguous acres, with about 850 acres planted in potatoes each year. The Diercks family has been a leader in the state's potato industry, with Steve serving as president of the Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association in 1989 and Andy serving as president in 2002.
The family's commitment to innovation and sustainability is evident in their water management practices. They have implemented irrigation systems that use water based on rainfall and recharge, and are actively collaborating with University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers to discover ways to use water more efficiently.
At a Glance
| Main Company | Coloma Farms Family-owned potato farm in Wisconsin |
| Main Executive | Steve Diercks Vice President of Coloma Farms |
| Organization | Wisconsin Potato and Vegetable Growers Association Industry association representing Wisconsin potato growers |
| Regulator | Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Regulatory agency overseeing Wisconsin's agricultural industry |
| Location | Waushara and Adams counties, Wisconsin Where Coloma Farms is located |
| Industry | Potatoes Primary crop grown by Coloma Farms |
| Key Product/Service | Fresh and seed potatoes Main products grown and sold by Coloma Farms |
Behind the Scenes of Wisconsin's Potato Industry
The Diercks Family's Water Management Innovations
The Diercks family's water management practices are a key factor in their success. They use irrigation systems that are based on rainfall and recharge, which helps to conserve water and reduce waste.
The family is also actively collaborating with University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers to discover new ways to use water more efficiently. This partnership has allowed them to implement new technologies and techniques that have improved their water management practices.
The Importance of Water Management in Potato Production
Water management is critical in potato production. Potatoes require a well-drained soil to grow, and excess water can cause problems with the crop. The Diercks family's commitment to water management has helped them to maintain a consistent and high-quality crop.
What Wisconsin Potato Growers Can Learn from the Diercks Family
What Wisconsin Potato Growers Can Learn from the Diercks Family
- Invest in water management practices that conserve water and reduce waste.
- Collaborate with researchers and industry experts to stay up-to-date on the latest technologies and techniques.
- Implement sustainable practices that benefit the environment and the community.
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