Washington state apple and pear growers have approved a $27 million special project assessment to support research at Washington State University (WSU).
The growers have effectively voted to tax themselves $1 a tonne over the next eight years in what is the largest donation ever received by the university.
“A gift of this magnitude is truly transformational,” said WSU president Elson Floyd. “We sincerely thank the industry for making such a dramatic investment, and for finding a way to make it happen that fits the industry’s culture and values. In partnership, WSU and growers will work to ensure the industry continues to be a leader in the global market.”
Washington State department of agriculture officials certified the election results earlier this month.
“Washington growers support research and extension because they know it’s important to invest in the future of the industry,” said Dan Newhouse, director of the Washington state department of agriculture. “We …need to be ready to respond to a changing marketplace, unknown pests and diseases and other uncertainties we can’t anticipate. This agricultural research at WSU will be a valuable tool as we seek to manage future risks.”
Specifically, $11m will create six endowed chairs to provide perpetual support for the tree-fruit research programme at the university. WSU will cover the salary and benefit costs for each faculty position.
$11m will create an endowment to establish new positions in tree-fruit production regions to accelerate the transfer of new information and technologies for Washington growers and shippers. A further $5m will create an endowment to support dedicated research orchards in Prosser and Wenatchee and enhance development and evaluation of technologies and practices.
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