More so than most SFU editorials, this one feels particularly heavy and I would ask you to read through it as the information is extremely important to the health and future of our industry.

I’m in the communication business so I know how tricky it can be to communicate about different levels of agriculture. I knew it would take all of 5 minutes of me being at the Lower Mainland Horticultural Conference in BC before I was asked about the tariff concerns.

Calling all blackberry and raspberry growers:

The ORBC is working to provide a USDA backed crop insurance program for caneberry growers in the PNW (Oregon and Washington).

With much appreciation from all participating nurseries, we present you the 2024 plant sale numbers! This is an annual effort which nurseries…

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