California cherry growers focus on COVID-19 precautions
Harvest of the California cherry crop, estimated at 7 million 18-pound boxes, is underway in southern growing regions near Bakersfield and Fresno.
Peak production is expected to be in mid-May, according to the California Cherry Board, Sacramento.
With the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting markets globally, California cherry growers will be relying more on domestic sales this year, according to a news release from the board. Typically, as much as 25% of the California crop is exported, Chris Zanobini, executive director of the board, said in the release.
The industry is focused on adjusting harvesting and packing practices to prevent spread of the virus among the workforce. More handwashing stations are in the orchards and equipment is sanitized, according to the release.
The California Cherry Board has created an online resource center to help growers implement appropriate measures, and has a webpage dedicated to educate consumers on those steps.
“All of us cherry packers are working to protect our employees using a variety of methods,” Erick Stonebarger, general manager of Chinchiolo Stemilt California, said in the release. “We’re having daily safety meetings, equipment is being sanitized frequently, additional handwashing is required, non-employees are not allowed in our facilities or offices, we’re regularly checking our workers for signs of illness.”
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