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Secondly, Mr. Estes explains that one can “prune an orchard in 30 days.” Such a generalization is of no value since the variables of acreage, manpower, and thoroughness were not considered. That “You’re not going to prune an orchard from January to mid-March” is not so. Pruning and grafting are properly done in these winter months when trees and vines are fully dormant.
Thirdly, Mr. Estes asserts, “No new orchards are going to be successful in Rappahannock” because of deer damage. In reality, the progress of deer-fencing is influencing the planting of smaller, higher-producing acreages.
The final and perhaps the most disturbing statement of Mr. Estes must be addressed. His declaration that, by housing migrant laborers, farmers are saying “move in, bring your children, we are going to educate your kids, you’re a permanent resident” is inflammatory. Migrants, by definition, are a mobile workforce. The vast majority work and travel alone, sending money home to their families. They have absolutely no interest in settling in Rappahannock.
We hope commercial fruit growers and farmers dependent upon migratory labor respond to this challenge and talk to their supervisors. As commercial fruit growers, it is frightening that our future can be determined by the Board of Supervisors with sole input from one disgruntled couple and offhanded information supplied by one board member. ALEX & ROSE ANN SHARP,
GEORGE & SALLY SHARP
Washington
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