Chuck Gunnerson is retiring as president of the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association (NPPGA), based in East Grand Forks, N.D.

Gunnerson, who’s held the position for nearly nine years, says he wants to spend more time with his family. He will remain in the post until a replacement is found, according to a news release from the association.

Gunnerson announced his upcoming retirement at NPPGA Annual Meeting in East Grand Forks, MN. He farmed and operated the Ada Produce Company, a red potato packaging facility in Ada, MN until 2004 when he decided to pursue an early retirement. Gunnerson says, after 40 years in the potato industry he looks forward to retirement and spending time with his family.

Gunnerson is a past chairman of the Red River Valley Potato Growers Association (currently NPPGA). He also served as President of the National Potato Council in 2000 and as Chairman of the Minnesota Area One Potato Council for 20 years. He was Chairman of the Northern Crops Council in 1998-1999 and has served in various capacities on several agricultural commodity boards. Gunnerson has received numerous honors during his carrier.

NPPGA announced is embarking on their search for a new president for the organization. NPPGA is recruiting for this role to accommodate the upcoming retirement of its current president. The president position, based in East Grand Forks, MN, is primarily responsible for representing the interests of NPPGA’s members to provide industry leadership and manage association business to fulfill its mission.