MONTE VISTA, Colo. (RFD News) — An 80-year-old family potato farm is finding new ways to adapt as drought continues to reshape farming across the region.
Farmer Tyler Mitchell says the operation has adjusted its crop rotation in recent years, replacing malt barley with less water-intensive crops like quinoa and winter rye while incorporating cattle grazing to improve soil health and reduce water use.
Mitchell says growers continue to face challenges from a drought that has persisted for more than two decades, along with weak potato prices following last year’s large national crop.
Despite those challenges, he remains optimistic about the future of potato farming and says organizations like the National Potato Council help represent growers on policy issues.
Supporters say AM radio remains critical for rural communities and emergency communications.
September 18, 2026 01:00 PM
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Arkansas Agronomist Jarrod Hardke discusses statewide harvest conditions, crop quality, and the outlook for grain producers as hot, dry weather continues.
September 17, 2026 04:30 PM
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Paul Neiffer says ranchers affected by drought-related livestock sales may have more time to reinvest proceeds if their county is on the IRS drought list.
September 17, 2026 03:07 PM
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USDA’s Brad Rippey says a similar stretch occurred in 2002.
September 17, 2026 02:31 PM
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USDA says planting delays are showing up in parts of the Great Plains and Northwest.
September 17, 2026 01:25 PM
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Lower yields and higher costs are adding pressure for producers across the state.
September 14, 2026 03:22 PM
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