Latest WSU Extension guides help drive irrigation, tree fruit decisions

Leading WSU’s land-grant mission, scientists at Washington State University Extension share knowledge through online guides.

Aimed at Northwest agricultural producers, their latest publications include how-to guides on nutrient sprays for apples and cherries, a cost guide for pear growers, overviews on irrigation in several Washington counties as well as equipment to improve data-driven decisions, and more.

Overview of Irrigated Agriculture in Ferry County (TB78E)

Ferry County in northeastern Washington faces natural and socioeconomic challenges to agriculture and efficient irrigation. Data-driven irrigation management can improve irrigation efficiency and profit local agriculture. Intended for producers, agencies, and stakeholders, this overview is part of a series exploring irrigation system efficiency across five counties. Authors include Skagit County Extension faculty and scientists Don McMoran, Abdelmoneim Mohamed, Kate Seymour, and Sylvi Thorstenson; and Trevor Lane, Ferry County Extension Director.

Overview of Irrigated Agriculture in Lewis County (TB79E)

Part of a series exploring irrigation across several counties. Irrigation is an essential practice for profitable farm production in western Washington, given summer drought. Efficient irrigation system management can result in water and energy savings and increase profitability while minimizing environmental impacts. Authors are Don McMoran, Abdelmoneim Mohamed, Kate Seymour, Sylvi Thorstenson; and Gary Fredricks, director, Cowlitz County Extension.

Fall Nutrient Sprays in Tree Fruit (FS365E)

Carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen are the most important nutrients for tree fruit growth and development. Initial spring growth and early fruit development rely on reserves accumulated the previous season; fall nutrient management strategies help build those reserves in apples and cherries. This publication lays out considerations and how-to’s. Written by Bernardita Sallato, assistant professor and Tree Fruit Extension Specialist.

Using an Atmometer for Irrigation Scheduling in Eastern Washington (FS361E)

Good irrigation water management improves grower profitability and environmental water quality. Simple to use and relatively inexpensive, the atmometer captures local data and can help irrigators get the most out of their water. Written by R. Troy Peters, professor and Extension Irrigation Engineer, and Romulus Okwany, Soil and Water Engineering lecturer, Egerton University, Kenya.

Bacterial Canker in Washington Sweet Cherries (FS366E)

Bacterial canker in sweet cherries is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae, and is commonly associated with production areas that have wet, cold weather. Canker is a real problem for sweet cherry growers, who can learn to prevent and manage this disease by following these guidelines. Authors include Bernardita Sallato, assistant professor, Tree Fruit Extension, and Gary Grove, professor and Extension Plant Pathologist.

2020 Cost Estimates of Producing Bartlett Pears for Canning in Washington State (TB80E)

This general guide helps owners estimate costs of equipment, materials, supplies, and labor, as well as the ranges of price and yields at which canning pear production becomes a profitable enterprise. Authors include R. Karina Gallardo, professor and Extension Specialist, School of Economic Sciences, and Suzette Galinato, assistant director of the IMPACT Center.

See all recent WSU Extension Publications here.

– Seth Truscott, Washington State University