Cherries Looking Strong Despite Rain

Despite thunderstorms that hit in various areas of the Inland Northwest, Northwest Cherries B.J. Thurlby said rain hasn’t been as big a problem as the wind.

“All the growers reported real high winds which is a concern and that’s something we want to watch, but all the reports are saying there weren’t even any helicopter flying because that rain, and they got a lot of rain right in the Tri-Cities area, right in the downtown area, but that rain didn’t effect too many orchards.”

In fact, Thurlby said harvest has been along really well with great quality of fruit and the Chelan crop even looks like it will be 15 percent above their estimates while the Bing crop will be at right about their estimate.

Thurlby noted the market is also strong and many growers are feeling positive.

“The big challenge will be to see how we manage July once the July holidays are over, but if you’re an early grower you should be happy with how your fruit looks and how the market has held up.”

Thurlby said Bing and Chelan harvest is done in the Tri-Cities area but are just getting underway in the Yakima Valley area.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail krounce@cherrycreekradio.com.