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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. …
State of the spuds: Potato harvest looking up
COLUMBIA BASIN — The state of the taters is, well, pretty darn good this year. “The potato harvest is definitely a lighter crop than what we’re historically used to,” said Dale Lathim, executive director of Potato…
B's Rubs: Othello teacher has spices for all occasions
OTHELLO, WASH. — When you step into the large garage space occupied by B’s Rubs at the Port of Othello’s business incubator, the first thing that hits you is t…
Eltopia auctioneer wins international championship
ELTOPIA — A Central Washington auctioneer took top honors recently at the 2022 National Auctioneers Association International Auctioneer Championship, according to a press release from the NAA. Chantal Kimball, of…
Lumber prices dropping, but still higher than normal
GRANT COUNTY — It’s the stuff that homes are made of. But lumber, like so many other things, has gotten harder to lay hands on the last few years, and costlier…
Green growth: Cannabis celebrates 10 years of legalization in Washington
WASHINGTON STATE — In 2012, Washington voters approved ballot Initiative 502, which allowed for the legal production, sale and consumption of recreational cann…
Grapes and timing: Slow but solid harvest, say wine growers
QUINCY, Wash. — The 2022 Washington wine grape harvest is just getting underway, but wine growers are optimistic it’s going to be a good year. Vicky Scharlau,…
Ag officials warn against rabbit virus
OLYMPIA — Officials with the Washington State Department of Agriculture have confirmed the presence in the state of yet another highly infectious animal disease with the discovery of two cases of rabbit hemorrhagic…
Burning issue: Mitigating wildfire risks and ensuring proper coverage
MOSES LAKE — A lot of things can damage a home, but according to insurance agent Steve Crapson, fire is different. “You can save a lot of stuff from water, bu…
New laws will boost REC Silicon bottom line
OSLO, Norway — Despite posting a loss for the second quarter of 2022, REC Silicon President and CEO James May said the restart of the company’s solar-grade pol…
Hay King: Grower Travis Herring excels despite bad season
MOSES LAKE — There’s always plenty of work to do on a farm. “You always have something to do,” said Travis Herring. “You open the door to your pickup or the h…