BOISE -- Federal farm officials say the number of Idaho acres devoted to potatoes this year is 8 percent higher than a year ago.
Figures compiled by the U.S. Department of Agriculture show spuds have been planted in 320,000 acres, compared to 295,000 acres in 2010.
The Idaho Business Review reports the increase is being driven by strong prices and a boost in acres contracted by potato processors.
The higher planting in Idaho mirrors an increase by spud growers nationally. The government reports potato plantings are up an estimated 6 percent overall.
Despite stronger prices for spuds, potato growers are dealing with higher production costs. Southern Idaho Potato Cooperative President Doug Gross says profits for growers this year will be reduced slightly by higher costs for fuel and fertilizer.
