Why Alberta Leads Canada in Potato Production
- agforlife
- 5 days ago
- 1 min read
Did you know that potatoes are Alberta’s largest vegetable crop? These humble tubers are more than just a dinner table staple—they’re an agricultural powerhouse for the province.
💡 In 2024, Alberta produced 30 million hundredweight (cwt) of potatoes, making up 23.7% of Canada’s total potato production. This achievement secured Alberta’s position as the largest potato-producing province in the country (1).
What is a Hundredweight (cwt)?
You may have noticed potato production is measured in hundredweight (cwt). This traditional unit is still widely used in commodities and shipping.
👉 1 cwt = 112 pounds (2).
Why Are Potatoes Thriving in Alberta?
Alberta’s success in potato production comes down to a mix of factors:
Rich, fertile soils perfect for growing high-quality crops.
Cool, consistent climate that reduces pests and disease, allowing for healthier plants.
Advanced irrigation systems in regions like southern Alberta that ensure steady growth.
Strong industry support for research, innovation, and processing facilities that keep Alberta potatoes competitive on the world stage (3).
Classroom Connection 📚
Ask your students:
Why did potatoes become such an important crop in Alberta?
How do climate, soil, and technology influence what crops can be grown successfully?
Encourage them to think about the relationship between natural resources, innovation, and agriculture’s role in feeding families both locally and globally.
Alberta potatoes don’t just feed our province—they travel far beyond our borders, showcasing how agriculture connects local communities to the world. 🌎
References
Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation. (2024). Potato Production Statistics.
Canadian Produce Marketing Association. (n.d.). Commodity Measurement Units Explained.
Potato Growers of Alberta. (n.d.). Why Alberta Potatoes Lead the Way.
