Washington State University to launch campaign for new tree fruit research facility

Washington State University announced plans to launch a fundraising campaign this fall to create a state-of-the-art space for tree fruit research. According to a news release, WSU tree fruit scientists and college leaders will host a campaign kickoff from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 29, at the Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center, where the new Plant Growth Facility will be located. The event is open to the public.

According to the release, the new Plant Growth Facility will replace a 70-year-old structure and enhance WSU scientists’ ability to conduct research vital to Washington’s $10 billion tree fruit industry. The modern space will also help attract and retain top scientists and students.

“This facility will make projects possible that we simply can’t do now,” said Lee Kalcsits, endowed chair in environmental tree fruit physiology and management. 

The new facility will enable sophisticated environmental stress experiments, year-round disease research, root health tests and pest-free plant growth to ensure ongoing innovation in the Washington tree fruit industry. 

WSU pome fruit breeder Kate Evans said the new facility will support expanded research, including disease screening of breeding material, and provide room for broader research on new rootstocks.

“We do a good job of maximizing the facilities we have, but there’s a limit,” Evans said. “The new growth facility will give our internationally renowned programs a way to expand into areas we’ve simply been stymied from entering.”

To complete the project, the university aims to raise $4.2 million in private funds. Contributions will directly support research and solutions tailored to the needs of Northwest tree fruit.

“The vision for the new plant growth facility is a place where the top researchers, teachers and extension personnel come together to address the on-the-ground problems of today and the emerging threats of tomorrow,” said Wendy Powers, Cashup Davis Family endowed dean of WSU’s College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences. “Located in the heart of tree fruit production for the world, this facility puts us out in front to ensure safe, abundant, healthy fruit for everyone.”

For more information and to donate, visit the TFREC website at: tfrec.cahnrs.wsu.edu/plant-growth.

—by Jonelle Mejica