01/15/07 Expanding organic niche

When you hear the term organic, do you immediately think of the 60's & 70's hippie market or that aisle in your local grocery you seldom venture down? Zirkle Fruit's Rob Lynch remembers the beginning of the organic market. LYNCH: In the not too distant past, organic produce was marketed to a very exclusive customer base, through a very narrow range or retail markets. Quality was often less than conventional and supply was exceedingly short. The organic market matured, new tools were developed and growers became increasingly aware of the potential of sustainable organic farming. Lynch is confident the market will continue to grow. LYNCH: Most of us are expecting some substantial growth in the organic acreage and it's going to present some challenges, not only for the growers but also for the marketers. But if organic tree fruit can be grown anywhere, I maintain that it can be grown better in Washington State. We as growers and our marketing partners are well up to the challenge, I'm sure. According to Lynch organic farming is now a viable option for producers and education is playing an important role. LYNCH: Organic farms are every bit as viable as conventional farms. Top farmers are producing a product that is indistinguishable from its conventional counterpart. The consumer became more educated in regards to their food dollar. Many people who had not previously purchased organic were able to find organic fruits and vegetables in their neighborhood stores that may not have carried organic product previously. That's today's Fruit Grower Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.