Meet Diana and Norm Weddle

River Willow Ranch

Diana and Norm’s certified organic orchard and farm is located along the banks of the Okanogan River just upstream from Tonasket, Washington. The Weddles are very protective of the adjacent riverside habitat which Norm likens to a “virtual wildlife highway,” teeming with bird, mammal, and fish.

Growing Philosophy

“Our orchard is a wonderful place to walk through and listen to all the bugs buzzing. And if you just let nature take its course, you get to see balls of lady bugs taking care of those pesky aphids.”

 --Diana Weddle

Products

Apricots, cherries, nectarines, peaches, pluots, beets, beet greens, garlic, onions, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes

Soil and Nutrient Management

Healthy soil is the foundation for healthy agriculture. River Willow Ranch conducts routine soil tests to ensure that they are giving the soil what it needs. They till all plant-based nutrients back into the soil, use cover crops throughout the entire operation, and limit tillage in areas that might be impacted by erosion.

Pest Management

River Willow Ranch has been certified organic since 1999. They work to provide habitat that encourages beneficial predatory insects and use only certified organic materials for pest control when needed. 

The Riverside Habitat

The Okanogan River comprises the entire eastern boundary of River Willow Ranch’s 19 acres. Norm and Diana keep a 75’ to 150’ buffer between their orchard and the river, leaving natural grasses, shrubbery, and trees to provide habitat for local and migratory birds, as well as other animals. They have even seen cougars in their orchard!