One Spud And 72 Cubs: The Big Idaho® Potato Truck Visits Bear World During Its First Harvest Tour

Big Idaho® Potato Truck Driver Ron takes a picture of a curious black bear ready to bite into the 4-ton tater.

Eagle, Idaho, October 23, 2019 – The Tater Team wrapped up its 2019 Harvest Tour throughout Southeast Idaho with a 'beary' special visit to Bear World in Rexburg, ID. The 4-ton spud was invited to drive through the park after hours and snap a few photos. It seems a few of the 72 curious free-roaming black bears were caught checking out what they hoped would be dinner. (The potato, not the people!)

“Wherever the Big Idaho® Potato Truck goes it attracts attention. Folks can’t help but stop and see if it’s real. Apparently this is true for bears, too!” said Frank Muir, President & CEO, Idaho Potato Commission (IPC). “We appreciate all fans of the Big Idaho® Potato Truck -- even those who weigh 500 pounds and can run 50 miles per hour!”

Bear World was one of 23 stops the Big Idaho® Potato Truck made during its 13-day tour during the annual potato harvest in Southeast Idaho. Despite an unfortunate and untimely freeze, the Tater Team rallied and visited farms and cellars of all sizes, processing plants and elementary schools. They met thousands of Idahoans who were seeing the Big Idaho® Potato Truck for the first time and experiencing the excitement it generates for America’s favorite vegetable.

MORE PHOTOS AND VIDEOS OF BEAR WORLD AND THE ENTIRE TOUR OF SOUTHEAST IDAHO ARE AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

About the Idaho Potato Commission
Established in 1937, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is a state agency that is responsible for promoting and protecting the famous “Grown in Idaho®” seal, a federally registered trademark that assures consumers they are purchasing genuine, top-quality Idaho® potatoes. Idaho’s growing season of warm days and cool nights, ample mountain-fed irrigation and rich volcanic soil, give Idaho® potatoes their unique texture, taste and dependable performance. These ideal growing conditions are what differentiate Idaho® potatoes from potatoes grown in other states. For more information, visit www.idahopotato.com.