Exploring What the Farm of the Future Could Look Like
May 5, 2025 
Okanagan Specialty Fruits (OSF), noted developer of the ‘Arctic’ apple, recently hosted “Envisioning the Farm of the Future,” a full-day event for growers, technologists, educators, and industry leaders to explore the future of food production.
The day began with guided tours of OSF’s processing facility and orchard operations in Moses Lake, WA, where guests experienced firsthand the company’s innovative approach to sustainable agriculture. Attendees then gathered at Big Bend Community College for two dynamic symposium sessions.
Session 1, moderated by Vonnie Estes, VP of Innovation at the International Fresh Produce Association, featured a forward-looking discussion on how genetics, robotics, and AI are reshaping the agriculture industry.
Panelists included:
- Steve Mantle, CEO, Innov8.ag
- Karina Gallardo, Professor, Washington State University
- Neal Carter, CEO, OSF
- Dave Brown, Almanac Product Manager, Semios
Session 2, led by Walt Duflock, VP Innovation, Western Growers Association, addressed the labor challenges facing the tech-driven ag sector and showcased strategies to recruit and retain a high-tech workforce.
Speakers included:
- Sue Kane, CEO, NCW Tech Alliance
- Lisa Karsetter, Microsoft
- Sara Thompson Tweedy, President, Big Bend Community College
- John Riel, CEO, Burrows Tractor Inc.
- Freddy Valdovinos, Innov8.ag
Throughout the day, guests interacted with leading ag tech vendors, including Innov8.ag, Semios, Agtonomy, MyLand, Moleaer, SlimLine Manufacturing, and Vivid Machines, who demonstrated cutting-edge technologies advancing modern farming.
A highlight of the event was the debut of a new whitepaper by OSF CEO Neal Carter, titled “Traits and Tech: Designing the Orchard of the Future,” which explored how integrated technologies and advanced breeding strategies can drive orchard performance and industry sustainability.
“The future of farming will be defined by the choices we make today,” says Carter. “By integrating science, technology, and sustainable practices, we can build an agricultural system that is both resilient and regenerative. This event was about inspiring that vision—and taking steps to make it real.”
For more information, visit osfruits.com.
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