WRRC Executive Director-Willis

From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with today’s Fruit Grower Report. The Washington Red Raspberry Commission’s new Executive Director took over nearly five months ago following the retirement of long-time leader Henry Bierlink.

Gavin Willis says it was a very smooth transition …

WILLIS … “So, I came kind of in as an ‘associate’ roll, like learn under Henry, back in last December, and then officially took the reins on July 1.”

Willis brings several years of experience in agriculture and natural resource management to the position …

WILLIS … “I’ve been working in agriculture in Whatcom County since 2018 when I started working at Whatcom County Farmers. So, I was there for a number of years, been involved in water resources work as well. So, there’s a lot of kind of the same players on the boards of both organizations as there is on the Raspberry Commission so I’ve got a familiarity with the players and it’s just been a matter for me of getting up to speed on issues specific to the raspberry industry to make sure we can represent our growers the best we can.”

Willis says he’s looking forward to meeting up with many growers in early December at the Washington Small Fruit Conference in Lynden …

WILLIS … “I think that’s part of our mandate of representing the growers and making sure that they’re aware so, a big emphasis on like getting regular updates to growers so they know what’s going on. And yeah, I’m really forward to being able to meet more of the growers in person at that event next month.”

Willis oversees the Raspberry Commission's research portfolio, trade, and advocacy programs.

One of his top goals is to increase domestic consumption of Washington red raspberries.