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Northwest Cherry Crop: Great in 2008

Business Wire, April 24, 2008

Delicious and packed with nutrients, abundant Washington Cherries always come out "on top"

YAKIMA, Wash. -- Get those fruit bowls polished up! Northwest Cherries are so sweet and so good for you, shoppers just might jockey their shopping carts into bumper car position for that last bagful. The Northwest cherry season is on the way, with cherry trees now in full blossom and a great crop not far behind (June).

The first areas to harvest in the state are typically Benton City, followed by the Yakima Valley and the Wenatchee area. B.J. Thurlby, of the Washington State Fruit Commission, predicts a crop of excellent size and quality out of the Northwest. The cold nights that we have had this spring have provided a natural bud thinning so that the cherries on the trees, come harvest time, will be those large, sweet cherries for which the Northwest is famous.

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Cherry trees love the Northwest's rare microclimate and rich volcanic soil, with production that accounts for over 80 percent of the nation's crop. In addition, Northwest Cherries are shipped to more than 62 countries abroad and bring nearly $600 million into the Northwest during its two-and-a-half month season.

Whether cooked, grilled or served "naked," cherries are nutritious and shamelessly habit-forming. As a low-fat, low-carbohydrate, sodium-free, and high-fiber treat, they provide an important source of potassium, Vitamin C, antioxidants and micronutrients. As for calories: one cup of cherries totals only 90 calories.

The Northwest's main varieties include the Bing (created on an Oregon farm in 1873) and the Rainier. The Rainier was created by Dr. Harold Fogle of Washington State University Research Station at Prosser, who crossed the Bing with the Van and came up with ultra-sweet golden gem with a red blush. The season kicks off in early June and runs all the way through until the 3rd week of August. Take advantage of Northwest Cherries while they are here. Before you know it they will be gone for another year.

To learn more about Northwest Cherries, visit www.nwcherries.com. Art, recipes and further information are also available by contacting Lauren Fior at laurenf@tamarawilson.com.

Business Services Industry

Northwest Cherry Crop: Great in 2008

Business Wire, April 24, 2008

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