NORTHERN PLAINS POTATO GROWERS ASSOCIATION QUICK FACTS The Northern Plains Potato Growers Assn. (formerly Red River Valley Potato Growers Assn.)is made up of over 300 growers and shippers across North Dakota and Northwestern Minnesota.  The charge of the association is promotion, research, education, legislation, and communication for the potato industry covering fresh, chip, process, and seed production. North Dakota ranks 4th in the nation in potato production at 2.74 billion pounds. Minnesota ranks 6 th in the nation in potato production at 2.23 billion pounds. North Dakota and Minnesota produce about 10% of the entire U.S. potato crop. North Dakota ranks 2nd in the nation in certified seed production. The Red River Valley region is the world's largest producer of red potatoes! The Red River Valley is the only major growing area that does not rely entirely on irrigation.  This along with the richest soil in the world, give Red River Valley potatoes their rich flavor and color. Red River Valley potato production breaks down by the following:  Processing 58%; Seed 13%; Chip 9% and Fresh 20%. Leading varieties are: Russet Burbank (processing), Norland (fresh), and Frito Lay (chip).