WSU, Tree Fruit Commission Reaffirm Partnership

Research leaders from Washington State University and the Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission were in Pullman last week to reaffirm their “groundbreaking partnership”.  The August 7th event celebrated science, sustainability, and the shared future of the state’s $10 billion tree fruit industry. 

“Our partnership with the Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission is, in many ways, right at the heart of our land-grant mission,” WSU President Elizabeth Cantwell said. “It’s a nationally relevant example of how growers and universities can work together to benefit the future of food.”

Endowed Chairs Have Made A Big Difference

At the heart of the relationship, the $32 million Tree Fruit Endowment, launched in 2013, which currently funds five endowed chairs in focused on tree fruit physiology and management; postharvest systems; bacterial diseases; environmental physiology; and entomology and integrated pest management.  The university is currently searching for a sixth chair in soil and rhizosphere science.

“The establishment and, critically, the filling of these endowed chairs represent a monumental step forward for our industry,” said Sam Godwin, WTFRC Board Chair.

The endowment also supports modern test orchards and equipment, as well as outreach and technology education through the WSU Tree Fruit Research and Extension Program.

The Relationship Has Benefited Tree Fruit Growers In Multiple Ways

“They offer the stability required for sustained research, allowing our world-class scientists to delve deep into issues like pest management, disease resistance, climate adaptation, and fruit quality,” Godwin added. “These chairs are also a powerful magnet for attracting top talent, ensuring the cutting edge of tree fruit science remains right here in Washington.”

“Our partnership with WSU has always been the bedrock of our progress,” said Ines Hanrahan, WTFRC Executive Director. “We are immensely grateful for WSU’s critical support in establishing and filling these endowed chairs, and for their superb management of the Tree Fruit Endowment, which includes vital information and technology transfer positions and Extension efforts. This collaborative spirit translates directly into practical solutions for our growers, ensuring our industry remains innovative and globally competitive.”

History Behind the WTFRC

The Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission was established by the Washington Legislature in 1969 to promote and carry on research and administer specific industry service programs to benefit the planting, production, harvesting, handling, processing, or shipment of tree fruit in Washington. WTFRC is committed to advancing knowledge, improving practices, and addressing challenges facing the tree fruit industry.

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