Derek Davenport, of Kennewick, Wash., has been elected as the newest commissioner for the Washington State Potato Commission. Davenport will fill an open at-large position on the commission and officially began serving his term July 1. Davenport is the general manager for Allied Potato Northwest, Inc. located in Pasco, Wash. There he oversees all of the farm operations including the growing, packaging and shipping of their potatoes.
While on the commission, Davenport will serve and help address various issues and projects impacting the Washington state potato industry.
"As a commissioner, I'm hoping to have the opportunity to help enhance export opportunities and engage in addressing trade issues that impact our industry," said Davenport. "Our location provides a close proximity to the ports of western Washington and access to ocean shipping routes that meet customer supply needs throughout Asia and Central America."
Davenport is a 2007 graduate from the University of Idaho where he earned his degree in Agriculture and a minor in Spanish.