Fruits

Hard cider: New industry faces shortage of trees, labor

Despite being a very old practice, the making of hard cider is virtually a new industry in the United States. The recent growth in sales has been “staggering,” and the U.S. apple industry as a... more »

Precision agriculture poised for growth

An agricultural engineering professor, in the forefront of high-tech innovation, believes there are significant advantages for specialty crop operators who pursue and adapt precision agriculture technologies. The bottom line – impacted by such trends as... more »

Washington fruit unit hits the ground running

Jon DeVaney knows he is the go-to person, now that the merger of four Washington state fruit industry associations is officially in place. DeVaney, who has an extensive background in legislative affairs, is just fine... more »

BEI demise spurs race to fill blueberry harvester void

When BEI International, a South Haven, Michigan, agriculture equipment supplier, went defunct last April, it left several growers throughout the country without their promised harvesting equipment and parts, and with little hope of recouping their... more »

USDA seeks nominees for blueberry board

USDA is seeking nominations for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).USHBC is composed of 16 members and 16 alternates. Selected nominees would replace seven members and seven alternates whose terms will expire Dec. 31, 2015.... more »

Listeria outbreak linked to caramel apples

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials in several states and with FDA to investigate an outbreak of listeria monocytogenes infections (listeriosis).According to a news release, joint investigation efforts... more »

New variety available to more retailers

Honeybear Brands, the varietal developer, has announced the regions and markets selected for the rollout of its newest apple variety, Pazazz.The new variety will be available to select retailer partners in several major markets. Honeybear... more »

Stoll crowned 2015 Michigan Apple Queen

Mary Stoll of Kent City has been crowned the 2015 Michigan Apple Queen. Madison Rasch of Conklin is First Runner-Up, according to the Michigan Apple Committee (MAC).Contestants for Michigan Apple Queen must have a connection... more »