Flathead cherry growers earn coveted certification

Thirty growers from the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers (FLCG) association, a Montana agricultural cooperative since 1935, applied for Global GAP certification this year.  Growers from this group of 30 were randomly selected for audits.  All members passed and became GAP certified for the year 2013.

GAP means “Good Agricultural Practices” and involves extensive record keeping and compliance with predetermined practices for growing, in FLCG’s case, Flathead cherries.  The entire process culminates in an on-site audit of the selected members’ orchards, complete with physical and record keeping audits to make sure the growers are in compliance with all phases of the program.  Achieving GAP certification means these growers are dedicated to growing the best and safest fruit possible while providing a quality and safe work environment for everyone engaged in every phase of growing and harvesting the fruit.

Each year re-certification is necessary to make sure these good agricultural practices continue to be the goal and practice of the co-op’s growers. Achieving Global GAP certification is no easy accomplishment.  Congratulations to the 30 FLCG growers receiving Global GAP certification this year.

-Courtesy of Barbara Hammons, FLCG