Jeff Cleveringa, head of research and development for Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers in Wenatchee, WA, has been named incoming president of the Washington State Horticultural Association. Mr. Cleveringa’s work with Oneonta takes him around the world to evaluate the latest in orchard and packinghouse technologies, new orchard systems and the latest in new apple and cherry varieties.

Marketing Director Scott Marboe said that Mr. Cleveringa was a well-chosen candidate who brings considerable experience to the table. “Jeff is one smart and knowledgeable guy in this industry,” Jeff Cleveringa, head of research for Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers, was named incoming president of the Washington State Horticultural Association. (Photo courtesy of Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers)Mr. Marboe told The Produce News.

“He has vast knowledge about some of the newest and best horticultural practices in the field today, is constantly learning about new varieties and growing practices, and pays close attention when it come to the future of the industry. Jeff is a huge asset to Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers and will be a great president for the industry,” he added.

Mr. Cleveringa joined the association’s board three years ago and was elected second vice president the following year. He is a member of the Washington Tree Fruit Research Commission Technology Committee and a board member of the International Fruit Tree Association.

The news of Mr. Cleveringa’s selection came on the heels of a very successful apple season for Oneonta. “The holiday season is a great time to build displays at retail,” he commented. “Fruit is used for gifts and parties. People seem to stay at home more, which means more in-home meals.”

Apple movement is strong, and all varieties are selling. “Honeycrisp continues to set record levels of demand and price,” Mr. Marboe noted. “Gala, Fuji and Goldens are seeing great movement in North America as well as export markets.” December is traditionally a good month for apple movement. “We see substantial movement in January and February, especially with Fuji and Pink Lady,” Mr. Marboe added.

He said the company’s flagship label is “Starr Ranch Growers.” “We also sell in other labels in various overseas markets,” he commented.

Oneonta works closely with its retail partners to build category sales. “We use category management tools to look at varieties that show increased sales [such as] point-of-sale materials and social media,” he said.

The company continues to upgrade its Washington facilities. “We expanded our controlled-atmosphere storage and packing capacity in our Quincy facility this year,” Mr. Marboe said. “Columbia Reach, one of our partner warehouses in Yakima, is building new controlled-atmosphere storage as well as an entire new packing facility for the coming season, which we are really excited about. As one of the larger Honeycrisp growers and packers in the state, we feel it will really help our production capabilities.”

The company’s organic volume is expected to continue to grow in the coming years. “We recently took over the sales and marketing for Columbia Valley Fruit, [which has] an excellent organic line with a great varietal mix,” Mr. Marboe stated. “Though our organic mix is a small percentage of our overall sales, it is a vital part of what we offer to our customers and the consumer.”