Washington State University's Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC) has received a $600,000 pledge from the Northwest Nursery Improvement Institute (NNII) to support the construction of its new Plant Growth Facility (PGF). This major contribution will advance research that ensures long-term sustainability and competitiveness for the state's tree fruit industry.
The new $18.2 million PGF will replace a 70-year-old structure at TFREC, providing cutting-edge resources for year-round research. The facility will feature controlled environments to study plant growth, pest resistance, and environmental stress, directly supporting Washington's $10 billion tree fruit sector.
NNII's donation will specifically fund the development of a high-tech greenhouse within the PGF. This space will enable researchers to accelerate the breeding of new cultivars, enhance pest management, and refine production methods for apples, pears, and other tree fruit varieties.
Bill Howell, Manager of NNII, emphasized the center's value: "Scientists and staff at WSU-TFREC have made significant contributions in insect and pathogen control, plant physiology, fruit storage, and breeding. Modern facilities are essential for continuing that work, and NNII is proud to support this much-needed greenhouse complex."
Kate Evans, professor and director of the Pome Fruit Breeding and Genetics Program at WSU, said the greenhouse will significantly benefit breeding programs: "Breeding is a numbers game—the more seedlings, the better the chances of finding superior varieties. This greenhouse will provide a critical boost to pome fruit development in the Pacific Northwest."
Lee Kalcsits, research team lead and associate professor at WSU, highlighted the broader impact: "This facility addresses a key infrastructure gap at TFREC. It will allow us to pursue essential research supported by a mix of state, industry, and federal funding, and will benefit both producers and consumers."
The Plant Growth Facility will enhance collaboration between academia and industry, ensuring WSU remains a leader in tree fruit research. With $4.2 million still needed in philanthropic support, WSU continues to seek private contributions to fully fund the project and secure the future of Washington's fruit industry.
For more information:
James G. Smith
Washington State University
Tel: +1 509 335 2959
Email: [email protected]
www.news.cahnrs.wsu.edu
