Heritage Apple Bill

From the Ag Information Network, I’m Bob Larson with today’s Fruit Grower Report. Washington lawmakers are considering a new program aimed at at identifying, registering, and preserving rare and historic apple varieties still growing on small farms across the state.

Republican Representative Gloria Mendoza of Grandview has introduced House Bill 2525, which would create a Heritage Orchard Program in partnership with Washington State University.

Mendoza says thousands of apple varieties once existed, but many have disappeared over time, until recently …

MENDOZA … “And now they're finding out that there are some small family farms that still hold some of these apples that were known to be extinct."

Under the bill, WSU would maintain a registry of heritage orchards and provide resources to help preserve trees that meet age and rarity standards.

Mendoza says the program could also uncover apples most Washingtonians have never tasted …

MENDOZA … “Imagine, discovering an apple that we had not tasted, that we can now say, wow, this is a small farm in our state. And it gives us another reason to just be proud."

Supporters say the bill could protect agricultural history while expanding future opportunities for small farms.

HB 2525 has been referred to the House Postseconday Education and Workforce Committee and awaits a public hearing.