WSU launches $4.2 million campaign for new tree fruit research facility

WENATCHEE - Washington State University is launching a fundraising campaign this fall for a new Plant Growth Facility at the Wenatchee Tree Fruit Research and Extension Center (TFREC).

The university will host a public campaign kick-off event on Tuesday, Oct. 29, from 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Wenatchee TFREC. The goal is to raise $4.2 million in private funds to replace a 70-year-old structure with a modern facility designed to support Washington's $10 billion tree fruit industry.

“This facility will make projects possible that we simply can’t do now,” said Lee Kalcsits, endowed chair in Environmental Tree Fruit Physiology and Management. “It’s a leveraging opportunity: it opens a whole set of doors for impact on industry.”

The proposed facility will double the existing greenhouse space and include advanced lighting, temperature, and humidity controls. These features will enable environmental stress experiments, year-round disease research, root health tests, and pest-free plant growth.

Kate Evans, WSU Pome Fruit Breeder, commented on the current limitations and the potential of the new facility. "We do a good job of maximizing the facilities we have, but there's a limit," Evans said. "With the greenhouses, we're way beyond it. The new growth facility will give our internationally renowned programs a way to expand into areas we've simply been stymied from entering."

Evans noted that the facility would support expanded screening of breeding material for diseases like fire blight and provide space for research on new rootstocks.

Wendy Powers, Cashup Davis Family Endowed Dean of WSU's College of Agricultural, Human, and Natural Resource Sciences, described the vision for the facility. "The vision for the new plant growth facility is a place where the top researchers, teachers, and Extension personnel come together to address the on-the-ground problems of today and the emerging threats of tomorrow," Powers said. "Located in the heart of tree fruit production for the world, this facility puts us out in front to ensure safe, abundant, healthy fruit for everyone."

The new Plant Growth Facility is intended to enhance WSU's ability to conduct research on environmental stresses, diseases, and pests affecting tree fruits. It is also expected to aid in attracting and retaining scientists and students in the field.

Washington State University has directed interested parties to the TFREC website for more information on the project and donation opportunities.