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
06 Mar 2025
The researchers collected samples in 70 orchards in 2023 and another 16 in 2024 in cherry-growing regions in Oregon and Washington. They found the presence of cankers and decay in most locations.
20 May 2024
A 2023 consumer study that surveyed over 2,000 consumers found that the key factors continue to be quality and flavour. However, once the retail price reaches $4.50 per pound, sales begin to decline.
26 Nov 2025
The use of 730 nm NIR imaging combined with artificial intelligence enables accurate detection of Qfly oviposition marks on fresh cherries in Australia, improving quality control and phytosanitary safety throughout the fruit supply chain for international export markets.
26 Nov 2025
An Italian study tests kaolin, azadirachtin, pyriproxyfen, and cyromazine for sustainable control of Drosophila suzukii in cherry orchards. Promising results help reduce fruit damage while minimizing environmental impact from traditional pesticides.
