News
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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. …
Yakama Nation announces deal to buy Inaba Produce Farms
YAKAMA NATION — The Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation have reached an agreement to buy the 1,500-acre Inaba Produce Farms, which is wholly located within the Yakima Reservation.
McGregor Company acquires Pendleton Grain Growers
COLFAX — The McGregor Company announced it acquired seed retailer Pendleton Grain Growers in late July.
Washington apple harvest lower than anticipated
WENATCHEE — The Washington State Tree Fruit Association has lowered its estimate for the 2021 fresh apple crop.
Tracking a bacterial culprit in the case of the warty pumpkin
On a pumpkin, warts, and bumps have a certain charm. But some unwanted bacteria-caused blemishes open the door to infections that rot and ruin this bright, sea…
A problem of pollen: Essential critters facing uphill battle in Washington
OLYMPIA — There’s something most people can do quite easily and quickly to help out the state’s bees, butterflies and other pollinators.
Scientists seek better ways to keep organic fruit fresh
Increasingly popular with consumers, Washington-grown organic apples and pears thrive in the region’s dry, disease-discouraging climate.
Apple, peaches hold up through heat, other fruits suffer
ROYAL CITY — During the worst of the summer heat, Kole Tonnemaker said he had a hard time keeping his orchard watered.
Witherbee announces change after 20 years at helm
WENATCHEE — After leading the Washington Apple Education Foundation, or WAEF, as its executive director for 20 years, Jennifer Witherbee has announced she inte…
Wheat, barley harvests hit hard by drought
MOSES LAKE — The scorched and desiccated dryland wheat in parts of the Columbia Basin earlier this year were an indication of what a lot of farmers probably su…
Water use high as record-breaking summer bakes Basin
PASCO — When it hit 115 degrees on June 29, irrigators across the Columbia Basin had one option.