Raspberry Industry Service Award or 2025

From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with today’s Fruit Grower Report. After decades of exceptional leadership at the Washington Red Raspberry Commission, Henry Bierlink stepped aside last summer, making his way into a well-deserved retirement.

But at the recent Lynden Ag Show, Bierlink was recognized for his service with the 2025 Raspberry Industry Service Award …

BIERLINK … “Overall, I've had, 25-plus good, really good years with the raspberry industry, and the things I care about, I'm passionate about, things of good community, creation, respect for creation, the environment that we have here, and I just find a vast, vast majority of our farmers are all in that same camp.”

And over the years, Bierlink says he’s seen plenty …

BIERLINK … “I started working with my dad's peers, then I got to work with my peers, and now I'm working with my kids' peers, and it's pretty clear that time is almost time to move on. So, it's been a delight. For me and my family, it's been a really privilege. I do think thank industry and all the farmers around here for giving me the opportunity to kind of do what I enjoy doing.”

But Bierlink says he’ll still be around …

BIERLINK … “I will not go away. I will be around and help out wherever I can, in any different ways, but I'm happy to pass on the baton of leadership to somebody else, so that's where I'm at right now.”

The Raspberry Industry Service Award honors individuals who’ve made contributions above and beyond the normal call of duty to advance the interests of Washington State raspberry growers.

Henry’s recent retirement marks the culmination of a remarkable career defined by unwavering dedication, thoughtful stewardship and a deep commitment to Washington’s agricultural community.