Through the years Norm Nelson concentrated on quality and did not compromise in any way that would affect this main objective. The second generation, Jerry, Jim and Norm Jr. carried on that same philosophy and focused on getting top quality product to the markets.
In 1984 Norm Sr. passed away and at that time the three Nelson brothers operated the farm company. In June 2002 another change took place. Jim and Norm sold their interest in the company to Jerry. The new management structure has Jerry Nelson continuing as overall general manager and President. Myron Ayers will continue to be responsible for managing produce sales, fiscal operations and is the corporate Secretary. Ryan Nelson advanced to an extension of Jerry in farm operation management and is the corporate Treasurer. In December 2003 Mike D’Amico was added to the sales team to restructure the sales strategy to have more direct contacts with the ever changing mix of potato buyers.
It all starts with acquiring quality potato seed. All the seed is conventionally grown with no genetically altered seed used in the growing operation. The majority of seed comes from Whatcom County, Washington, which is within 50 miles of Nelson’s growing operation, allowing regular monitoring of the seed crop through the growing season. The Nelson operation grows and packs all they ship, keeping a watchful eye on the contents of every carton and bag that leaves their warehouse. This has resulted in the “Double N” label being the standard for red, white and yellow potatoes over the years!
In recent years a cattle enterprise has been added to compliment the potato growing operation. Nelsons are the only potato grower in the Skagit valley that has added a cattle program as we feel the grass (for pasture) is the best rotation crop for potatoes. We graze “short term” cattle on the grass, are in more control of our rotation acres and feel soil tilth is greatly improved. This takes our potato quality, consistency, and productivity to a higher level to meet our consumer’s higher standards.