From the Dean

Working together for a resilient industry

Over the past year, I’ve witnessed the resiliency of both our WSU research family and Washington’s tree fruit communities. Even in these times of uncertainty, our scientists, students, growers, and industry partners have continued to work together to overcome the challenges that face us.

That partnership is embodied by the WSU Tree Fruit Endowment which fuels research and sets priorities in tandem with producers and enterprise. Now in its seventh year, this fund allows WSU to bring the latest research and ideas directly to the orchard, the packinghouse, and the dinner table.

Over the last year, the Tree Fruit Endowment has allowed us to pursue many innovations in orchard management, storehouse practices, disease defense, improved genotypes, and fruit quality in apples, pears, and cherries.

Thanks to the Endowment, we have expanded the WSU Tree Fruit Extension Team’s efforts to build awareness and improve management of Little Cherry Disease, which devastated cherry orchards in decades past and has resurfaced in Washington.

With the impacts of the pandemic bringing unprecedented complexities to tree fruit and many other sectors of Washington state agriculture, WSU  Extension scientists are working alongside the tree fruit industry to answer questions and address best practices related to COVID-19.

The Cosmic Crisp® apple rolls ahead this year, with more than 15 million trees planted in Washington state, and major launch activities continuing into 2021.

Finally, in a welcome surprise, the endowment’s special assessment, which completed in 2019, drew in additional funds that we will use to enhance outreach and infrastructure at both of our Prosser and Wenatchee centers.

Our success would not be possible without your support, and I thank you for your ongoing involvement. On behalf of our college and its faculty, I’m humbled by your strength in challenging days, and proud to partner with you in innovation and discovery that keeps this industry strong.