POLSON — The Flathead cherry crops have been significantly affected by the mild winter temperatures followed by a major cold snap in January.
Prior to the Flathead Cherry Festival later this month, MTN visited Polson to assess the situation at the stands. Driving around Flathead Lake, one can see cherries on the trees in many orchards.
Unfortunately, at Gateway Orchard on Highway 35, the fruit on hundreds of their trees was destroyed by the January freeze.
“Most of the cherries, right here at our orchard, were lost to the freeze, and the same goes for most of the valley,” said Jim Engelsberger, who runs Gateway Orchard with his mother.
Despite the cherry loss, their stand is still open as they also sell jewelry, huckleberries, and other fruits and vegetables. They are collaborating with other orchards to replenish their stock.
“Although we are currently open and selling other items, we are making select purchases from Washington for cherries. We also have a neighbor up the road who will be supplying us with some Flatheads, though the quantity is limited,” Engelsberger explained.
Despite the impact on business, Gateway Orchard remains hopeful about having Montana cherries available soon.
“We expect to have some cherries, including Flatheads, by the time of the festival. They are not ripe yet,” Engelsberger informed MTN.
