Protecting cherries protects the cherry industry

Published: 2022
By Jack Stivers

Montana’s cherry industry secured its place in world markets by establishing a Pest Management Area (PMA) to help ensure Montana cherries are free of fruit flies. Markets in the United States and worldwide prohibit the importation of fruit-containing pests, particularly the western cherry fruit fly. Lake and Flathead Counties instituted the PMA as a required step in holding to a zero-tolerance policy for all cherry shipments through grants and funds from Flathead Cherry Growers, Inc. Beginning in 2022, MSU Extension in Lake County was selected to conduct public education associated with the PMA. All lands within two miles of Flathead Lake are identified as comprising the PMA; anyone owning a cherry tree in this area needs to understand the importance of controlling fruit flies. Many methods were used to inform the public in the PMA, including direct mailing to homeowners, site visits for one-on-one discussions, and radio spots.