Oct 16, 2024

Growers nominated for WSTFA board elections

The Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA) has nominated growers and a packer to stand for election in upcoming WSTFA elections.

The following individuals were nominated to stand for election for three-year terms ending December 2027:

• North independent grower: Blaine Smith, Smith Orchard, Monitor
• South packer: Gilbert Plath, Washington Fruit, Yakima
• South independent grower: Martin Olsen, Olsen Brothers Ranches, Prosser
• At-large grower: Jeff Baldwin, Monson Fruit, Selah

Any additional candidates who would like to be on the ballot can add their names. The individuals should submit their names, the names of the member companies represented, and board positions sought along with the signatures of at least 25 representatives of WSTFA members supporting their nomination, according to a news release. Nominations should be submitted by Nov. 15 to the WSTFA office at 105 S. 18th Street, Suite 116, Yakima, WA 98901. For questions, potential nominees are encouraged to contact WSTFA president Jon DeVaney at 509-452-8555.

Based in Yakima with an office in Wenatchee, WSTFA was founded in 1914. Its mission is to add value to all segments of the tree fruit industry through educational programs and conferences, statistics to enable growers and packers to plan for market opportunities, as well as working with Washington state government affairs to help address market uncertainties driven by government policies.