Column: Creating opportunities for agriculture research

With over 300 different commodities, Washington state has one of the most diverse agriculture industries in the country, and we are recognized around the world as a top producer of specialty crops. From apples and tree fruit to hops and wine grapes, Washington has cultivated a unique community of growers and producers who are leading the country in agriculture research and innovation. Promoting specialty crop research should be a no brainer.

The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) supports critical research being done on everything from soil health to pest management in specialty crops....