I haven’t sent out a sentimental commentary in a while so you’re all stuck squirming in your seat for the rest of this.

First, recognizing those that have been recently recognized by the commissions for their life-long efforts. I love these recognitions so much that my coworkers watch my face during some of the presentations

Let’s talk about assessments. As most of you are aware, state/provincial assessment/levy’s are due or past due at this point. You should have received information from any berry crop organization for specific minimums and rates but feel free to click on any of our direct Small Fruit Update Sponsors to contact them directly if you need more information.

Over the past couple years, we have enhanced our approach in engaging with our audience. This includes raising awareness about NBF services and our commitment to efficiently serving our industry.

The meeting season has settled in as much as the rain has but we need the meetings like we need the rain. Over the next month I’ll be summarizing a few meetings that have already happened

I’m coordinating a PNW breeding program meeting on Nov. 18th, at 3pm MST/2pm PST. This meeting happens during the first session of the NCSFR conference which is in Boise, ID.

Let’s talk blueberry as there are many things to discuss. First up for discussion is the USHBC/Washington Blueberry Commission joint grower meetings happening in two locations in Washington over the coming weeks.

What a season! Generally speaking, I’d say there was an uptick in yield for all crops. Too bad there wasn’t an uptick in price per pound in those same crops until this past month.

Rose Stem Girdler hasn’t been its usual minor pest this season. More and more I’m seeing and hearing about raspberry and blackberry fields young and old having canes affected

This field season is winding down and there are many folks who view this but don’t realize the individuals and effort it takes to make the 24th year of the Small Fruit Update happen so I’d like to thank the following folks…

Hello Heat! The forecast is reminding us that much of September is still summer but I’m not sure why the reminder needs to be in the form of 100F (38C) temperatures!

I can tell the harvest is finishing up and growers are taking stock of what their fields look like post fruit load. I have been getting a few questions about weed management…

The last couple days have been incredibly nice weather-wise. This week will give the plants some time to bulk up the remaining berries and allow growers a chance to catch up on water needs.