Thompson Farm, located in Pritchard near Kamloops and operating over 275 acres, is experiencing a downturn in cherry production due to a January cold snap impacting the Thompson-Okanagan region. Despite the trees' good health, the yield is notably lower, with scattered fruit production prompting a reduction in workforce to lessen financial impacts.
Farm manager Theunis Bester remains optimistic for future seasons, highlighting the dedication of the smaller, primarily Mexican crews employed this year. In response to the challenges faced by cherry production, the farm, owned by Jealous Fruits, has diversified into apple cultivation, introducing 30 acres of apple trees in 2020, and expanding its orchard to include ambrosia and honey crisp varieties. The apple harvest, expected in late October, will be processed at the Jealous Fruits facility in Kelowna.
Agrologist Seradaye Lean and other industry professionals report varying degrees of damage to cherry crops across the region, with some farms experiencing as little as 10% of their typical yield.
Source: infotel.ca