NOP Deputy Administrator Toured Washington Recently

National Organic Program (NOP) Deputy Administrator Miles McEvoy was in Washington recently touring many area organic tree fruit operations as well as an organic blueberry packing facility.

Among the topics discussed were the importance of micronutrients, the value of spiders for organic pest control, weed and pest challenges and management, fire blight and much more.

The NOP says they schedule these tours to gain key insight into organic production, processes and challenges so that they can develop better standards and certification procedures.

Washington accounts for more than 21 percent of organic acreage in the country, totaling more than $463 million in sales. More than 90 percent of the organic apples grown in the U.S., and 80 percent of the organic pears, are grown in Washington.

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