Dick and Rose Ann Berryman - Washington
Dick and Rose Ann have been farming since 1984 in Zillah, Washington. They started with 10 acres of Red and Golden Delicious apples grown conventionally. For the first 11 years Dick commuted from California while Rose Ann ran the farm, keeping in touch with Dick on a daily basis. Early on, they had the wisdom to hire a good foreman, Juan "The Boss" Gallegos, who is still with them today.
Although Dick assumed the family plumbing business, he also inherited Pop Anderson's farmer genes. In 1996, Dick turned the family plumbing business over to son, Bob, and turned his hobby, farming, into his livelihood.
The Berrymans have 3 acres of organic nectarines (Red Gold and Flavortop). They want to expand their organic nectarine acreage possibly adding new varieties. They would like to add earlier maturing varieties, however, they are not willing to sacrifice maturity and quality.
The Berrymans are a unique operation, they pack their own nectarines. Each season they convert a shed into a homemade packing line of overturned bins and plywood. They have a loyal crew that has been with them for years; friends, neighbors and family. Daughter Sandra runs the scales and stamps the boxes and grandchildren join in the harvest. The crew starts picking and packing the same day. The Berrymans strive to provide good quality fruit, picked at peak flavor yet firm enough to ship well. Rose Ann insists that the fruit smell good and inspects every box. Their name on the fruit boxes reflects the great pride and care taken in their produce.
The Berrymans are among the growing number of organic farmers who make a lasting contribution to the environment and bring wholesome, quality products to the marketplace. They are members of the Organic Trade Association and are proud to have WSDA Certified Organic stamp on their product.