Valent U.S.A. Presents 2017 Apple Grower of the Year Award

August 24, 2017

WALNUT CREEK, Calif. — Valent U.S.A. LLC today presented the Apple Grower of the Year award to Rod Farrow of Lamont Fruit Farms in Waterport, N.Y. He received the award at the U.S. Apple Association’s Apple Crop Outlook & Marketing Conference in Chicago.

Recognizing Leadership in the Apple Industry

The Apple Grower of the Year award honors an influential apple grower. Specifically, it recognizes individuals who go beyond the orchard to make a lasting impact through leadership and involvement. The award is presented by American Fruit Grower and Western Fruit Grower magazines and is sponsored by Valent.

“The Apple Grower of the Year celebrates the tenacious spirit of the American apple industry,” said Mark Mason, tree fruit crop manager with Valent. “Growers face many challenges every day. However, leaders like Rod Farrow take these challenges head-on, look for proactive solutions and inspire others to do the same.”

Farrow earned this recognition through nominations from fellow growers and researchers. Today, he is well known as a co-owner of Lamont Fruit Farms in Waterport, N.Y. In addition, he serves as president of the International Fruit Tree Association.

He received the 2017 Apple Grower of the Year award because of his strong business approach and innovative mindset. Not only does he focus on maximizing returns, but he also prioritizes educating the next generation of growers.

Farrow has been called the “Grady Auvil” of the East for his progressive approach. By focusing on long-term success, he and his team have built strong partnerships and adopted new growing practices. As a result, they continue to improve crop outcomes and long-term success.

“Most apple growers were born into it, but Rod chose this path,” said Jim Bair, president and CEO of the U.S. Apple Association. “Because he had influential mentors, he now gives back by sharing his knowledge. Therefore, the apple industry is stronger because of his generosity.”

Supporting Apple Growers with Proven Solutions

Valent remains committed to the apple and pome fruit industry. The company develops products that help increase fruit quality and marketability. In fact, Valent offers more than 20 products designed to optimize size, shape and overall crop quality.

To learn more about Valent apple solutions, visit valent.com/pomefruit or contact your local Valent sales representative.

About Valent U.S.A. LLC

Valent U.S.A. LLC, headquartered in Walnut Creek, Calif., develops and markets products in the United States and Canada. These products protect crops, enhance yields and improve food quality. In addition, they help beautify the environment and safeguard public health.

Valent offers a broad portfolio of herbicide, insecticide, fungicide and plant growth regulator products. The company is also a leader in both traditional chemical solutions and biorational products developed by Valent BioSciences LLC.

For more information, call 800-6-VALENT (682-5368) or visit valent.com.