Pacific Northwest
New COVID-19 requirements released for Washington agriculture
On May 28, Washington state Gov. Jay Inslee released Proclamation 20-57, “Concerning the Health of Agricultural Workers” which provides required protections that must be in place by June 4. Full details of requirements can be found... more »
Ranier Fruit Co. anticipating Bee Better certification for organic blueberries
As summer approaches, and the upcoming Washington blueberry season nears first pick, Selah, Washington-based Rainier Fruit Co. announced its 100% organic blueberry operation is on track to earn the title of Bee Better Certified in... more »
Cross-country journey kick started award-winning wine student’s career
When then-18-year-old Andrew Gerow packed his car to drive from his home in Michigan to start at Washington State University (WSU) Tri-Cities, he knew what he wanted from his education. "I’ve always loved anything to... more »
Scientists peg plant protein’s role in cellular architecture, drought survival
A team of Washington State University scientists discovered how a little-understood plant protein guides development of tiny cellular structures that regulate the flow of sap from roots to shoots, revealing a potential way to help... more »
Farmworker housing rules increase worker safety in Washington state
New emergency rules adopted May 13 regarding temporary farmworker housing will help increase worker safety and reduce the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). The rules detail specific steps required at farms where temporary workers live in... more »
Yakima Valley fruit company workers walk off the job, citing safety concerns
Protests by Yakima County, Washington, agricultural workers over what they consider unsafe working conditions during the COVID-19 outbreak continued Wednesday, May 13, with employees walking out of the Monson Fruit Co. in Selah. According to... more »
Report: Tree fruit industry left hanging during the COVID-19 pandemic
A few weeks ago, it seemed like grocery stores couldn’t keep products on their shelves and that business was great for the food industry. According to a story in the Wenatchee World, a lot of... more »
WSU scientists enlist citizens in hunt for giant, bee-killing hornet
More than two inches long, the world’s largest hornet carries a painful, sometimes lethal sting and an appetite for honeybees. It is also the newest insect invader of Washington state. The Asian giant hornet, Vespa mandarinia,... more »
