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After some rough years, apple market may be improving in 2026
OTHELLO — It’s been a rough few years for apple and pear growers, but 2026 looks like it could bring better news. …
Rukke named acting pipeline safety director
LACEY, Wash. — The Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission has named Scott Rukke acting director of the commission’s pipeline safety division, according to a commission press release. Rukke, who…
Farmers should factor in cost, benefits of crop insurance
OKANOGAN — In a way, farming bears an uncomfortable resemblance to the casinos in Monte Carlo or Las Vegas, minus the glamor of the former and the glitz of the…
Agriculture bills being considered by Washington Legislature
OLYMPIA — Several agriculture-related bills have been introduced in the 2023 session of the Washington Legislature, which started last week. Topics include fur…
Dertings named GCCA Cattlemen of the Year
EPHRATA, Wash. – Will and Nicole Derting were recognized as the 2022 Grant County Cattlemen of the Year at the Grant County Cattlemen’s Association banquet in …
Food fight: Keeping America’s favorite vegetable a vegetable
KENNEWICK — What is a vegetable? It may sound like a silly question posed by philosophers with too much time on their hands pondering the nature of creation…
Field tech: New machinery makes farming more efficient and less labor-intensive
MOSES LAKE — The word to watch for in farm equipment these days is “efficiency.” “One of the biggest situations is labor,” said Tim Prickett, co-owner of Ra…
BPA chief gets presidential award
PORTLAND, Ore. — The Bonneville Power Administration announced in December that the agency’s chief administrator, Robin Furrer, is one of 18 Department of Ener…
USDA looks to beef up meat supply chain
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The federal government will invest $9.6 million to strengthen farmers, ranchers, processors and rural businesses and diversify the country’s…
Peeling the apple market
QUINCY — Washington apple growers, having survived a wild and crazy 2022, are making the turn into a new year with a market that’s looking pretty good domestic…
Tater talk: Potato conference equips growers
PORTLAND, Oregon — Howard Goldstein is on a mission on behalf of potatoes. “Unlike the consumer, who absolutely loves potatoes, and nothing’s going to stop …