Wisconsin Potato Leaders Inducted into WPVGA Hall of Fame

By Blake Jackson

Tom Wild of Wild Seed Farms Inc. in Antigo, Wisconsin, along with Gary and Lynda Bula, owners of Gary Bula Farms Inc. in Oxford, were inducted into the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association (WPVGA) Hall of Fame during the industry’s Annual Awards Banquet on February 4, 2026, in Stevens Point. The Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose lifetime achievements have played a significant role in advancing Wisconsin’s potato industry.

Wild’s involvement in potato farming began after graduating from Antigo High School in 1968, continuing the legacy started in 1948 when his father, Leonard, co-founded Wild Seed Farms. What began as a small, diversified operation has grown into a multigenerational business producing 500 acres of certified Frito-Lay and Atlantic seed potatoes, along with oats and clover.

Over the decades, Wild became a strong advocate for collaboration within the industry, serving in leadership roles at both state and national levels, including as president of the Wisconsin Potato Industry Board and chairman of the U.S. Potato Board.

“I want to thank all my growers and customers for allowing me to work with them over the years," Wild said. "After my wife, Caroline, and family, the next most important thing in my life is the opportunity to be involved in farming.”

Gary and Lynda Bula have spent more than 50 years building a diversified farming operation that today includes thousands of acres across Wisconsin, Missouri, and Illinois.

Their farms produce potatoes, vegetables for processing, and a range of grain and forage crops, emphasizing crop rotation and environmental stewardship. In Wisconsin, their potato production serves frozen, chip, table-stock, and restaurant markets.

Gary and Lynda Bula have been deeply involved in industry leadership and community service. Lynda was the first woman to serve on the WPVGA Board of Directors, while Gary remains active on several WPVGA committees. As long-time volunteers and advocates, they continue to support agriculture through education, research, and community events.

“We want to provide our children and grandchildren with the opportunity to care for our farms the way we have, and to have the tools and resources to make better choices," Gary said. "That requires working with growers, researchers and partners, and using new technologies and practices to grow food better and safer with a smaller footprint.”

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