How Has Coronavirus Impacted Local Cherry Industry?

The impact the coronavirus has had on the Ag industry has varied from commodity to commodity. When looking at the Northwest cherry industry, B.J. Thurlby, President of Northwest Cherry Growers said the virus did not have an impact on labor availability to start the season. But, that does not mean growers and packing sheds did not feel the impact of COVID-19.

“There are numerous state required hoops that we’ve got to hop through to get our labor taken care of and make sure it’s taken care of in a safe and productive manner that matches up with our state’s rules and regulations.  So, yes, this as brought numerous new levels of safety into the packing sheds, and into the orchards, so it’s definitely there.”

Thurlby said labor in general was a challenge this season, like every year. He noted it has been difficult not only to find workers, but more importantly quality workers to pick in cherry groves across the Northwest.

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