Washington has initiated a state-wide drought emergency due to diminished snowpack levels. The President of the Washington State Tree Fruit Association highlighted the challenges faced by growers, given the permanence of their crops in the field.
Jon Devaney emphasized the importance of collaboration between fruit growers and irrigation districts to manage water rationing effectively. He detailed strategies like the establishment of on-farm ponds for frost control, which also serve as a reserve to sustain water supply during drought-induced early shutdowns of systems, ensuring the vitality of trees throughout the season. The necessity for ongoing dialogue between farmers and irrigation districts was underscored as critical for the current growing season.
Source: rfdtv.com