Idaho's unique environment provides nearly perfect growing conditions for potatoes. The soil, clear clean water, clean air and climate in Idaho make potatoes superior to any potato grown anywhere else.

Idaho began growing potatoes in the 1830s, when missionaries moved west to teach the American Indians there to grow crops. However, the discovery of gold in Idaho in 1860 had a big impact on potato production: the potatoes were grown to feed miners in the gold and silver camps.

The potato isn't real, but if it was, it would definitely feed a crowd if you could wait long enough for it to grow. A four ton spud like the one on the giant truck would take 7,000 years to reach maturity. However, it would make 20,217 servings of mashed potatoes or 1,000,000 average size French fries.

Very hot, dry and smoky conditions during the 2021 growing season cut down 25%-30% of yields across Idaho, said Russo, who added that smoke from wildfires in California and Colorado created cloud cover in Idaho and prohibited plants from getting adequate sun.

Idaho

• Nickname: The Gem State.
• Statehood: 1890; 43rd state.
• Population (as of July 2016): 1,683,140.
• Capital: Boise.
• Biggest City: Boise.
• Abbreviation: ID.
• State bird: mountain bluebird.
• State flower: syringa.

Idaho is as well known for its potatoes, trout and precious stones as it is for its unspoiled, rugged landscapes.

The earliest recorded trace of the spud was found in the Peruvian Andes at around 6000BC. Research implies that communities of hunters initially came to the South American continent 7000 years before harvesting wild potato plants. The plants sprouted around Lake Titicaca situated high up in the mountains.

Crafted from steel, plaster, and concrete, the 28-foot long tater has been recycled from the Big Potato Tour, hosted by the Idaho Potato Commission (yes, there is such a place!)

How do you dispose of a 6-ton spud made of steel, plaster and concrete? You don't. You recycle it and turn it into the Big Idaho® Potato Hotel, the only potato hotel in the world!

History. It started as a classroom project by the students of teacher Tom Hughes at The International School of Brussels, Belgium in 1975. The museum was based in Washington, D.C., for several years and open by appointment only.

The state - especially the volcanic southern half - is home to hundreds of hot springs. Many of these, such as Banbury, Miracle, Thousand Springs, Durfee, and Nat-Soo-Pah, have been enjoyed by generations of enthusiasts. They're the perfect place to relax after a long day of exploring, or a destination unto themselves.

Idaho is known for:

• Potatoes.
• Gems.
• Scenic mountain landscapes.
• Miles of protected wilderness.
• Outdoor recreation areas.
• Huckleberries.
• Mining.
• Hot springs.