The galvanized wire used for trellises might contribute significantly to the environmental footprint of an orchard because of the large amount of energy used in its manufacture. Washington State University researchers are assessing the environmental impact of the typical Washington apple orchard. Dr. Usama Zaher, biological systems engineer, is developing a life cycle assessment, which will look at every impact of producing apples in Washington, from the raw materials (including nursery trees) to removal of the trees. Apples and other tree fruit crops inherently have a minimal environmental footprint, says David Granatstein, WSU sustainable agriculture specialist.  To grow apples, you […]