C.L. "Butch" Otter: governor.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for taking time to read the Grocery Headquarters' special feature on Idaho food products. It is a privilege for me to articulate to the rest of the country what we in Idaho already know--superior and innovative food products come from Idaho.

In this special supplement you will see just a portion of what Idaho food production has to offer. Please see the following pages for information on Idaho products including potatoes, onions, beef, ham, farm-raised trout, salad dressings and dips, frozen appetizers and wine.

Agriculture and food production have been the bedrock of Idaho for generations. However, not everyone immediately sees all that Idaho has to offer. And indeed, some may ask, "Why Idaho?"

To find the answer one must dig a little deeper than just numbers.

I take great pride in the fact that Idaho's farmers and ranchers produce more than 162 different commodities and that our food processing industry is stronger than ever. But again, there is more to Idaho food than just statistics. Idaho often is out-produced by such larger agricultural states as California and Florida. Idaho, however, offers something different. Idaho is known for diversity and ingenuity in food production. You don't need to look beyond our land and people to see why Idaho is a cut above.

Idaho's climate and geography make for ideal growing conditions. Our state is diversified and the topography of the land includes everything from rolling hills to lush valley floors and from rich, flat crop land to vast rangeland. Idaho is fortunate to have warm days and cool nights, making it perfect for most food production. Our unique climate is providing for a wine industry that is taking root and gaining national recognition.

There is a different kind of climate that is equally pivotal--the cultural atmosphere. Idaho is one of the last areas of the country that still fosters a positive and supportive agricultural environment. I was involved in private agribusiness for more than 30 years and I know what it takes to get food from the farm to the table. The good folks here in Idaho also understand the industrious spirit behind food production. Idaho has more than 50 associations promoting either specific commodities or agriculture in general. That's pretty good for a state with a population just over 1.5 million people! It tells me that Idahoans are committed to supporting agriculture and to making sure that food meets rigorous standards.

Our famous potato is a prime example of what agricultural associations can do to promote and provide quality assurance for commodities. The Idaho Potato Commission has worked for over 70 years to create a branded commodity that showcases the work of farmers across the state. Many years ago, the Idaho-based J.R. Simplot Co. broke ground in frozen food technology. Today, companies, commissions and individuals across Idaho are still advancing the field of food science to provide the most innovative products to consumers.

Food production in Idaho is multifaceted. It includes farmers, ranchers, industry leaders, food technologists, company operators and, of course, consumers. I know you'll find that each of these types of contributors is someone with whom you would want to conduct business. Year after year, Idaho is ranked by national studies as one of the best places to do business. I like to think that the people here--the same people who grow and develop food products--are the reason.

The quality of Idaho's food products speaks more eloquently than words. You'll have to try Idaho's vast array of food products for yourself. When you do, I hope you find yourself asking, "Why not Idaho?"

As Always--Idaho, "Esto Perpetua"

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C.L "Butch" Otter

Governor of Idaho