WSU Tree Fruit Expert Team Is Growing

A growing team of Washington State University Extension tree fruit experts is gearing up to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the state’s orchards, thanks to new funding from the WSU Tree Fruit Endowment.

The expansion comes as longtime educator Karen Lewis retires, with Gwen Hoheisel stepping into a larger leadership role.  Hoheisel said the increased staffing opens the door to new possibilities for research and grower support.

“The possibilities are exciting,” said Hoheisel. “We haven’t had this many Extension faculty focused on tree fruit in my 20-plus years here.” 

The endowment, launched with a $32 million grower investment, is designed to strengthen Extension services and connect research directly to orchard needs.

New hires will focus on issues like pests, disease, technology, and fruit quality—key concerns in a state that leads the nation in apple, pear, and cherry production.

“Using applied research as a methodology to educate while understanding industry priorities is one of Extension’s superpowers,” said Lewis, who helped lead the team’s early development. “The endowment leverages our tree fruit expertise and industry connections while strengthening communication with the growers who need the information.” 

Based in Prosser, Wenatchee, and Yakima, WSU said the growing Extension team serves tree fruit producers across south-central Washington.  School leaders added this effort will help keep Washington���s tree fruit industry strong for years to come.

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