The Long-term Investment Strategy: Orchard Managers Observing and Reacting to Change

Long-term (40+ years) cider apple orchard managers have been interviewed in Canada, U.S.A., Mexico, Argentina, South Africa, Ireland, U.K., Spain, France, Italy, Germany, and Austria. Their observations of changing climates and responses through pest/disease management, selection of tree varieties, fertilization/animal co-management, tree management, and attention to culture-specific details/values have been compiled to reveal resilient decision-making patterns. Evidence will be presented that points to likely future success of traditional orchard managers who continue to implement lessons learned across generations despite facing increased environmental challenges.