Throughout 2023, cherry growers in the state of Washington faced significant challenges due to adverse weather conditions. However, a positive breakthrough came on March 19 when the US Department of Agriculture approved Governor Jay Inslee's request for a federal disaster declaration.
This decision allows growers from 22 counties in Washington and six counties in Oregon to access emergency loans of up to $500,000 each. The request was supported by a bipartisan letter sent by all 12 members of Washington's congressional delegation to Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack on February 1.
Senator Maria Cantwell emphasized the importance of this declaration in supporting cherry growers, highlighting significant losses suffered in the previous year due to extreme weather conditions. According to the USDA, emergency loans can be used for a variety of purposes, including production costs and debt refinancing, provided that counties experience at least a 30% reduction in yields or prices.
Representative Kim Schrier expressed solidarity with growers, stating that their challenges were immense and many suffered losses exceeding 50%. Representative Dan Newhouse, on the other hand, described the declaration as a step in the right direction to address the situation.
In the letter sent to Vilsack, legislators explained how the rapid transition from a cold spring to a hot April negatively impacted the sweet cherry crop on the West Coast, leading to the loss of approximately 35% of the crop in the northwest region.
Finally, Senator Patty Murray expressed gratitude to the Biden administration for their ongoing support of Washington growers. The primary counties affected by the disaster declaration include Adams, Benton, Chelan, Douglas, Franklin, Grant, Kittitas, Klickitat, Okanogan, Walla Walla, and Yakima, along with numerous other adjacent counties in Washington and Oregon.
Read the full article: The Spokesman
Image: The Spokesman
30 May 2025
Cherry pollination in Chile combines honey bees, bumblebees and innovations like electrostatic pollen spraying. Agronomic techniques, climate control and native pollinators enhance fruit set and yield. Learn how to optimize pollination in Chilean cherry orchards.
20 Feb 2025
Cherry leaf spot is a challenge for Michigan growers due to fungicide resistance and climatic conditions. MSU research has identified effective copper-based fungicides.
05 Feb 2026
A research study from the University of Chile investigates how controlled atmosphere storage improves the shelf life of ‘Bing’ and ‘Lapins’ sweet cherries. Results show significant postharvest quality improvements under cold storage and market simulation conditions.
05 Feb 2026
With precision farming, it's now possible to prevent fruit cracking by optimizing irrigation, monitoring and data collection. Sensors, drones and AI support European growers in improving yield and fruit quality in cherries, grapes, citrus and pomegranates.
