Heatwave Roasts Pacific Northwest Berry Growers

By Johnny Eppich|June 29, 2021

Temperatures are now declining in the Pacific Northwest, which got blasted by a heatwave rarely seen in the region’s coastal areas. Since June 27, Washington and Oregon have seen temperatures soar well over the 100°F mark. Because of this unprecedented heat spike, there are concerns for growers in the area.

Berry crops, many of which are grown in cooler coastal areas, can suffer quality problems in the heat. Because the heatwave came early in the season when temperatures tend to be milder in the area, it was especially problematic, according to the Seattle Times. The temperature unpredictability has led to worry among growers who have been eagerly picking their crops early in the morning to avoid any damages.

Farther east, where tree fruit crops are generally produced, CBS News reports an estimated 500,000 boxes of cherries have been picked as they begin to ripen during the intense heatwave. To combat the heat for cherries not yet ready to be picked, growers in central Washington have employed sprinkler systems to keep the cherries from succumbing to the scorching temperatures.

According to Lisa DeVetter, Assistant Professor at Washington State University, some berry crops have been more damaged by the heatwave than others.

“All I can say is right now, we’re seeing significant damage in our raspberries,” DeVetter says. “Blueberries here in Washington look like they may have fared okay.”