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(Richland, WA-AP) -- Growers in four Western states are predicting another record crop of cherries this year, in spite of a harsh winter or early blooms in some areas.
Growers figure a harvest of nearly 118-thousand tons of fresh cherries in Washington, Oregon, Idaho and Utah. Nearly three-quarters of that amount would be harvested in Washington state.
The president of Northwest Cherry Growers says there will be ample demand for this year's crop.
Earlier this spring, growers expressed concern that warm weather in some areas had caused cherry trees to bloom earlier than usual. That would force Northwest cherries to compete with California cherries going to market earlier.
But the president of Northwst Cherry Growers (B-J- Thurlby) says enough growers have planted newer varieties that ripen later in the season. He says the competition may not be a problem.
(Copyright 2004 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
