Ecology: Fire Blight Outbreak Extensive In Washington

The state of Washington appears to be under attack by Fire Blight.  This year’s fire blight outbreak is extensive from Okanogan County all the way into Walla Walla County.

The state Department of Ecology said if your orchard has fire blight you can burn under the orchard pruning’s exemption for disease, if you have a moderate amount of fire blight.  However, if this year is not typical for your operation, and you have more fire blight than normal.  You may need to burn more than what would be considered “annual disease control”.  And if that’s the case, growers are reminded they need to get a pile burn permit.  Some orchards will be tearing out whole blocks of trees.

Ecology asks those growers to continue burning but to get a pile burn permit.  Pile burn permits expire at the end of June.  Those that need another permit after June 30^th, are asked to obtain a new permit.

Fire safety is an extremely important issue whether you are burning under the exemption or with a pile burn permit.  And growers must have fire safety approval from your local fire district before you start burning.

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