Stable, firm onion outlook expected for Owyhee Produce

Despite challenging growing conditions, Owyhee Produce expects onion-harvested acreage and yields at similar levels to a year ago, says Bailey Myers, marketing director for the Parma, Idaho-based shipper.

Since beginning its onion operation in 2006, the third-generation family farm has grown from about 200 acres of onions to more than 1,200 acres, Myers said. 

This season’s crop has faced its challenges, she said, but overall acreage for the company is about the same.

“Even though we try to be optimistic, this year, we had some very tough growing conditions, from windy, dry, hot and extra-long spring, which set us back a few weeks,” she said. “We are still very hopeful and positive we can have a good yield with supply available by the start of September.”

Myers said market conditions for the upcoming season should be firm.

“The ratio of supply and demand looks as though it can be promising for farmers and producers," Meyers said. "As long as we can get the price to follow the suit, we should see promising results."

Owyhee Produce will have its Wicked Sweet Red onion again this year and will continue to grow and expand the company’s whole peel availability, she said. In addition, the company has expanded its professional staff.

“We are welcoming some additional family members back to the office in sales,” Myers said. Myers herself and Madison Richards, both granddaughters of founder Owen Froerer, have recently joined the company's sales and marketing efforts.

“We have a lot of fun, exciting and new things that we will be rolling out this year,” Myers said, adding that the company is planning for changes on its website, social media, events and more.