The daily sentinel., 1905-01-23
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE GRAND
JUNCTION FRUIT GROWERS ASSN.
% q

increases. we will be compelled to put larger
portion to eastern markets; therefore, it is
plain to our growers must pull out all
these Improbable varieties and replace with
varieties that be shipped to any market.
The past season We have had good many
cars of our best peaches sold or the auction
in Boston, New York and New Orleans, with
satisfactory results In fact, in all these
markets. when the sotck right, il brought
the very top prices Now, there are always
some good markets; but generally these good
markets want nothing but good stock and viii
markets. when the stock was right it brought
nection it is important that have COM
petent inspectors at each of our shipping
stations to see that our stock goes out proper
ly graded and properly packed.
Had not shipped the early cling-stoue
varieties and unwrapped stock This season.
our average would probably show soc. in
stead of age per box.
when a shipment goes out with some good
stock. but largely small stock and undesir-
able varieties, We are compelled to consign
such shipments to any market that will take
Referring TO pears. California and all east
fruit districts had unusually large
crop, and think everything considered, our
returns should be satisfactory. But, results
show should discontinue shipping Clapp's
Favorte and other varieties. also Choice
No. stock. The grower that fails TO dig
out such varieties il certainly no; acting for
his own best interests
Prunes.-Our statement shows poor aver
age returns for all varieties of Drunes and
piums 1t is my opinion YOU will make
mistake 10 pull out everything in the prune
plum line. also nectarines
Apples pleased with rur showing
on apples. 1t is certainly the most satisfuc-
tory have made. and we owe this
largely to our efficient Inspector. Previous
seasons have consigned large per cent
of apples; but through proper inspection
and grading we have established both Fan
cy and Choice grade that have made a
reputation. In fact. l know in n great many
markets dealers will give the preference.
Out of our entire shipments of sos cars.
estimate that sold fully 500, and every
that passed on by inspector
accepted without any concessions. New York
and all the New England states mad large
crop and fine stock which marketed at
very low prices; but for all that, we sold, at
satisfactory prices. number of of Ben
Davis that went direct to New York City.
California and New Orleans We're also good
markets for fancy Ben Davis and other
ieties Texas took largely of No. . stock.
These facts all 20 to show that we need not
worry ourselves in the future as 10 a market
for apples. But. let me advise you good
and strong to pun out your summer varieties.
are again able to show good dividend for
the stockholders. These earnings have not
been made by charging the growers large
commission. You have only paid per cent
the net returns and find there very
few associations but what charge more. Meth
have charged exorbtant prices for sup
plies: in fact, you have bought supplies at
very close figure.
When you stop to consider that bust
ness aggregated over s550.Oo0 earnings
less than . per cent the seasons busi-
ness.
Now to sum up the whole proposition,
fruit grower in Grand valley is a very lucky
individual. for | know he grows more fruit
to the acre, gets better prices and does it
with less work and worry than his brother
hortculturist in any fruit growing district
in the world. But to realize best results you
must keep up with the times by taking out
all undesirable varieties and replant with
good commercial stock, then prune and thin
You have then solved the entire problem
Along the line of recommendations for the
next season, in my opinion, the most i'm
portant is competent inspectors at all our
shipping stations to see that our fruit, of all
kinds, goes out properly graded and packed.
/ would also recommend thorough fertiliZ-
ing, and have no doubt but we could use it
to good advantage | would also recommend
that encourage the establishment of can
ming plant. hardly think it practical for
our association to build and operate as
part OF our equipment; but do believe we
should, as individuals. encourage financially
and otherwise, any Legitimate proposition of
that kind.
In conclusion, | would be ungrateful in my
duty if l failed TO say word in reference 10
our transportation facilities. Both express
companies in this territory are giving us what
consider very just rates TO all points within
the state Both the Rio Grande and Colo
RADIO Midland gave excellent service
regards time and suitable equipment, and they
also assisted very materially in getting
equitable rates both freight and refriger
alton to a great many outside markets that
it was impossible to reach otherwise. This
is especially gratifying when read in all
trade journals the trouble growers and ship
pers having in nearly all sections of the
country. JOHN +. MOORE