For the past 25 years Clearwest had provided frost forecasts for Central Washington fruit growers and decided to end this service after the 2020 season. In order for the spring frost program to continue, a collaboration between Clearwest and meteorologists within WSU AgWeatherNet took place during the final 2020 season to familiarize AgWeatherNet with Clearwest forecasting methods. AgWeatherNet has fully assumed basic frost forecasting duties for the 2021 season and intends to continue to carry out the goals of the frost program while also expanding its capabilities based on user feedback. To access forecasts, verification data, and submit frost reports, please navigate to the AgWeatherNet homepage, https://weather.wsu.edu, and select ‘Spring Frost Program’ from the menu to the left of the page. Cherry cold hardiness is also available under models. Any questions, concerns, or input about the frost program may be directed to Craig Oswald at craig.oswald@wsu.edu, or 509-786-9256.
