Collaborative approach: 2014 Growers of the Year
O’Brien brothers are known for their innovation and collaboration.
Change is guaranteed: 2014 Growers of the Year
O’Briens say innovation is the key to survival on a family farm.
Quiet innovators – 2014 Growers of the Year
Brothers Craig and Mike O’Brien have been testing the limits of tree density in an effort to maximize yields and stay competitive. Their innovative and inspiring approach has earned them the title of Good Fruit Growers of the Year.
Sweet Rosa Lynn
New apple variety named after wives of the two men who discovered it.
Latino Leadership Award 2014: José Ramirez
His philosophy has always been that you can’t wait for things to happen around you. You have to make them happen.
2014 Silver Apple Award goes to Jerry Haak
Jerry Haak had a passion for growing fruit and finding better ways to do it. He used cutting-edge techniques not only to increase his yields, but to produce higher quality fruit and use labor more efficiently.
New tree fruit association will expand services
The new Washington Tree Fruit Association plans to expand its services to the industry, says President Jon DeVaney, who will be busy working on legislative affairs in the state capital of Olympia in the coming session.
Growers’ advocate ends 42-year career
During his four decades working at the Washington Growers Clearing House Association, Kirk Mayer saw the Washington apple crop grow from 25 million boxes to 140 million and availability of labor become an increasing concern.
Night shift: Harvesting apples at night
A shift from ladders to illuminated platforms allows pickers to work day or night.
Mylar machine moves fast
Antonio Montoya invented a machine that takes most of the labor out of laying a reflective mulch.