Flathead Lake Cherry Growers host annual meeting April 11

The Flathead Lake Cherry Growers gather April 11 at the Yellow Bay Community Clubhouse for the organization’s 88th annual Cherry Growers’ Meeting.

The clubhouse is located at 23429 MT Hwy 35 on the east shore of Flathead Lake. The meeting is open to anyone interested in growing quality Flathead cherries. Doors open at 8:30 a.m.; the meeting begins at 9 a.m.

Keynote speakers are Dr. Matthew Whiting, a Washington State University professor who specializes in tree fruit horticulture, and Bernardita Sallato, a tree fruit specialist with WSU Extension. These world-renowned cherry researchers will share their latest findings on cherry tree dormancy, cold hardiness, the impact of proper irrigation management on tree vigor, stress and fruit quality, nutrient management fundamentals, and the best spray practices with the plant-growth regulator gibberellin acid for cherry quality and balancing crop load.   

The day also includes a presentation by Steve Glutting on the use of Mason bees for orchard pollination. Agencies that connect with orchard growers will be available for information and assistance. 

Attendees will also be able to network with experienced Flathead cherry growers to learn how others have developed successful orchard practices unique to this area.  

This meeting is worth two course credits towards a private applicators’ spray license.      

General admission is $30 per person and includes morning refreshments and lunch. Advance registration is recommended. If space is still available, registrations will be accepted at the door for $35 per person.  

For more information or to preregister, call 406-982-3069 or email [email protected].   Information and the registration form are also available on the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers website: montanacherries.com in the calendar section under community events.