A Year of Growth, Grit, and Record Harvests

As the year comes to a close, we like to pause and reflect — not just on what we produced, but on what we adapted, improved, and built. Farming is never static, and 2025 at Chelan Ranch was a year that required flexibility, collaboration, and long-term thinking.

We’re proud of what this season delivered.

Farming Without H-2A Workers: A New Model

For the first time in many years, Chelan Ranch operated without H-2A workers. Instead, we hired local workers and partnered with MANCO crews from Manson Growers Cooperative.

This approach required greater coordination and communication, but it worked, and it reinforced the importance of strong local partnerships in sustaining agriculture in the Lake Chelan Valley.

A Strong Growing Season With Excellent Conditions

Some growing seasons are filled with uncertainty. 2025 was not one of them.

We experienced excellent weather throughout the season, with no major weather-related events impacting the crop. The result was healthy fruit, strong yields, and a smooth harvest.

One standout achievement:

• 1,182 bins of Sweetango apples harvested
• 42 bins per acre — a Chelan Ranch record

This was one of those rare years where growing conditions and careful orchard management aligned perfectly.

Honeycrisp Apples Qualified for Controlled Atmosphere Storage

We harvested 1,600 bins of Honeycrisp apples that qualified for controlled atmosphere (CA) storage.

To qualify for CA storage, apples must be in exceptional condition from the orchard through harvest and handling. This milestone reflects both the quality of the fruit and the care taken at every step of the process.

A New Landmark: The Chelan Ranch Venue Sign

One of the most visible accomplishments of 2025 was the completion of our Chelan Ranch venue entry sign.

The large logs used for the sign were harvested from our family property near Echo Valley, then carefully transported and crafted into the striking structure that now welcomes guests. It’s more than a sign; it represents our land, our history, and our future.

Hosting More On-Farm Events

In 2025, we hosted three on-farm events, continuing our tradition of adding one new event each year.

We believe in intentionally and sustainably growing this side of the business. With each event, word of mouth spreads a little further, helping more people discover that Chelan Ranch is open for business and open to the community.

Record Farm Stays and a New RV Site

Our Chelan Ranch farm stays experienced a record year, and we added RV Site #3 to meet growing demand.

By partnering with Hipcamp and sharing photos of our privately located campsites—set within our orchards and offering sweeping views—we connected with guests seeking quiet, space, and an authentic farm experience in Washington State.

Record Production of Organic Freeze-Dried Fruit

We harvested and processed a record amount of fruit for our Chelan Ranch Organic Freeze-Dried Apples, Cherries, and Blueberries.

This growing part of our business reflects increasing demand for shelf-stable, nutrient-dense fruit with a clear origin story. Every pouch begins right here in our organic orchards.

Strategic Changes: Orchard Decisions and Distribution Growth

2025 also required thoughtful, long-term decisions. We removed most of our cherry acreage, allowing us to focus resources where they make the most sense for the farm’s future.

We also acquired a new distributor, Four Seasons, which expands our reach and creates new opportunities for our freeze-dried fruit products.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The story of Chelan Ranch in 2025 is one of steady progress, careful choices, and meaningful growth.

Thank you to our workers, partners, customers, and community for being part of this year. We’re heading into 2026 with clarity, gratitude, and optimism.