Lessons from WSU Smart Orchard discussed at annual tree fruit meeting

YAKIMA — The orchard business is a bumpy ride at the best of times, and the last couple of years – well, it’s been tough. Jacob Hafer, sales director for Cameron Nursery, Eltopia, said labor and supply costs have increased. A lot. “The cost of inputs has gone through the roof,” Hafer said. Growers haven’t been so lucky. “Everything has increased except the return to the grower,” he said. In light of challenging times, industry consultant Craig Belfield said growers are going to have to take a hard look at their operations.