By Gerelyn Terzo, Global AgInvesting Media
Columbia Farm Services, based in Wenatchee, Washington, is a leading agricultural management company specializing in permanent and row crop investments. With over 5,500 acres under management, the company partners with private funds, asset managers, family offices and individual investors to drive profitability and long-term growth. Their approach is centered around timely execution of farming practices and an internal drive to be best in class.
Columbia Farm Services is a performance-based company rooted in financial transparency, standardization and operational excellence, creating economies of scale for their partners while ensuring sustainable success. Through expert management, strategic guidance and a commitment to excellence, Columbia Farm Services is committed to delivering exceptional fruit quality and maximizing the value of agricultural investments.
Situated in the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s thriving agricultural landscape, Columbia Farm Services benefits from Washington’s rich farming heritage and highly productive land. The state is home to over 35,000 farms producing more than 300 different crops and ranks among the top five U.S. producers for a variety of commodities. Washington leads the nation in apples, cherries, pears, hops and blueberries, while also ranking among the top producers of potatoes, grapes, carrots and other key crops.
This agricultural strength, combined with the region’s robust transportation infrastructure—including access to the Columbia River, an extensive rail system, and an international airport—further benefits from secure and abundant water rights, ensuring reliable irrigation for crop cultivation throughout the growing season. Together, these factors provide an ideal environment for large-scale farm management and investment.
Since its founding in 2015, Columbia Farm Services has focused on managing permanent crops such as apples, cherries and pears, employing both conventional and organic farming practices. Leveraging deep industry expertise and strong relationships, the company enhances productivity while prioritizing sustainability and long-term land stewardship. Committed to continuous improvement, Columbia Farm Services invests in technology and talent to develop systems that provide timely, accurate data, driving operational efficiencies and maximizing profitability.
Global AgInvesting had the opportunity to speak with Columbia Farm Services’ ownership and CEO to explore the company’s growth, the evolving industry landscape and why now is a strategic time for investing in permanent crops.
1.) GAI News: Can you tell us about the Pacific Northwest’s role in permanent cropland? What are some of the key permanent crops that Columbia Farm Services works with?
Columbia Farm Services: “The Pacific Northwest, particularly Eastern Washington, plays a significant role in permanent cropland, supporting a diverse range of high-value crops and offering abundant access to water. The region is a leading agricultural hub, ranking among the top five producers in the U.S. for many crops. Washington is the No. 1 producer of hops, cherries, apples, pears and blueberries, while also ranking No. 2 for potatoes, apricots, grapes, carrots, chickpeas, canola and raspberries. Additionally, the state is a major producer of wheat, mint, asparagus, lentils, sweet corn and peas.
“With over 35,000 farms growing more than 300 different crops, Washington’s agricultural landscape is both vast and varied. Columbia Farm Services primarily works with apples, cherries and pears, managing both conventional and organic farming operations. The Pacific Northwest’s strong infrastructure further supports agriculture, with key transportation advantages such as access to the Columbia River, barge transport, an extensive rail system, and an international airport, all of which facilitate the efficient movement of goods to markets worldwide.”
2.) GAI News: Your team were pioneers in farm management in the Pacific Northwest, and now you are helping to shape the next era of agriculture investment management. Tell us about your journey into farm management, specializing in apple orchards and how that early-mover advantage positions Columbia Farm Services in the current market landscape.
Columbia Farm Services: “With decades of combined experience in orchard management, Columbia Farm Services has been a pioneer in farm management and agricultural investment in the Pacific Northwest. Our journey began with hands-on experience in fruit production, starting in early childhood and evolving into professional roles in horticulture, orchard operations and large-scale farm management.
“Over 25 years in the fruit industry, our early focus was on improving fruit quality, optimizing production and executing critical tasks for maximum yield. This foundation led us to plant and manage our own orchards, gaining first-hand experience in budgeting, workforce management and long-term sustainability. Managing thousands of acres of apples, cherries and pears further honed our expertise in operational efficiencies, cost management and leadership.
“Today, Columbia Farm Services applies this deep-rooted experience, integrating cutting-edge technology and real-time reporting to optimize production costs and maximize returns for our partners. By leveraging data-driven decision-making and a commitment to timely execution, we help investors and growers navigate the complexities of modern agriculture, positioning them for long-term success.”
3.) GAI News: Why is regional expertise so important for permanent cropland management in the Pacific Northwest? Why is access to this expertise so critical for investors wanting to navigate the current market landscape?
Columbia Farm Services: “Regional expertise is essential for successful permanent cropland management in the Pacific Northwest, where factors like climate, water access, soil conditions and topography vary significantly across the region. Understanding these elements is critical for selecting the right locations—an essential first step in producing high-quality fruit and maximizing revenue.
“Beyond site selection, strong regional connections provide access to skilled labor, which is vital for efficient farm operations. A well-established network also plays a crucial role in post-harvest success, ensuring fruit is placed with the right packers and shippers to maximize market returns. For investors navigating today’s agricultural landscape, partnering with a team that combines deep regional knowledge, industry relationships, and data-driven decision-making is key to mitigating risk and achieving long-term profitability.”
4.) GAI News: Would you say Columbia Farm Services has taken an aggressive approach to growth over the past decade and if so, how does that play into increasing profitability and maximizing revenue growth today?
Columbia Farm Services: “Yes, Columbia Farm Services has taken an aggressive approach to growth over the past decade, and that expansion has been key to increasing profitability and maximizing revenue. By scaling strategically, we’ve built a top-performing team that tracks costs in real time, improves labor efficiency, and leverages data to drive informed decision-making with our partners.
“Our growth has also strengthened relationships across the Pacific Northwest agricultural industry, from growers and packers to suppliers and investors. These connections provide the flexibility and diversity needed to adapt to market conditions, optimize crop placement, and drive long-term revenue growth. By combining operational efficiencies with deep industry partnerships, Columbia Farm Services continues to create value for both investors and farm operations.”
5.) GAI News: What do the opportunities for permanent cropland in the Pacific Northwest look like over the next five years?
Columbia Farm Services: “The opportunities for permanent cropland in the Pacific Northwest over the next five years remain strong, particularly for orchards with high-yielding, market-preferred varieties and efficient layouts. The region’s exceptional climate, fertile soils, and reliable water resources make it one of the best places in the world for agricultural investment.
“As demand for high-quality fruit continues, orchards that prioritize optimal site selection, modern planting systems, and operational efficiency will be best positioned for success. Additionally, the stability of Pacific Northwest farmland offers investors both a secure real estate asset and the potential for strong returns through high-yield, premium crops. With the right strategy and management, permanent cropland in this region presents a compelling long-term opportunity.”
6.) GAI News: Let’s address some of the challenges. There’s no shortage of headwinds in the ag industry of late, and permanent cropland is no exception. Permanent cropland is facing a perfect storm of oversupply, pricing pressure and labor market constraints, not to mention the tariff effect. How is Columbia Farm Services navigating these headwinds and what can investors expect during this time of heightened uncertainty?
Columbia Farm Services: “Columbia Farm Services is navigating industry headwinds with a strategic focus on efficiency, quality and market adaptability. Our first priority is optimizing operations by reducing costs and ensuring our fruit reaches the most profitable markets through strong partnerships with packing warehouses and sales companies. Maintaining peak quality through timely harvesting is essential, as premium fruit consistently commands better returns.
“To address pricing pressures and rising labor costs, we are shifting to high-yielding, superior-quality crop varieties that align more closely with consumer demand, thereby enhancing market competitiveness and operational efficiency. While tariffs present short-term challenges, they help create a more balanced global trade environment in the long run. Labor remains a key focus for cost reduction, and through economies of scale, optimized scheduling, and improved internal communication systems, we continue to manage rising costs effectively. With disciplined cost management, strategic crop improvements, and a commitment to premium-quality production, we position our business and investors for sustained success.”
7.) GAI News: You have experienced changing market cycles in permanent cropland. Are there any constants that you have observed that give you confidence about future harvests and market conditions in this space?
Columbia Farm Services: “One constant in the permanent cropland industry is that high-quality fruit remains in demand, regardless of market cycles. Consumers consistently seek out superior products, and when we deliver what they want, demand often exceeds supply. This principle has held true throughout decades of industry experience and is evident even on a household level—great fruit is always eaten and desired, while lower-quality fruit is overlooked.
“Despite market fluctuations, businesses that prioritize quality—both in fruit production and in relationships with packaging, marketing, and retail partners—are positioned for resilience during challenging times and prosperity when conditions improve. By staying committed to excellence and aligning with strong industry partnerships, we remain confident in the future of our harvests and market stability.”
8.) GAI News: Columbia Farm Services oversees over 5,500 acres of tree fruit, vineyards, and row crops. Which innovations have you the most excited about where the industry is headed? We heard something about a new apple variety in the pipeline that could do a great deal for demand?
Columbia Farm Services: “At Columbia Farm Services, we are excited about the future of the industry, particularly in varietal development and advancements in technology. While not a new innovation, the health benefits of the fruit we grow continue to drive consumer demand. Cosmic Crisp, introduced just a few years ago, exemplifies how flavor consistency and quality can create a positive eating experience, increasing the likelihood of repeat customers.
“We are deeply invested in innovation, particularly in developing new apple varieties that offer grower-friendly traits, consistent yields, and exceptional eating quality. Our ongoing research and development efforts focus on identifying genetics that enhance both production efficiency and consumer appeal.
“Beyond varietal advancements, we are leveraging AI and other digital tools for data collection and operational insights. By developing an integrated operating system that delivers real-time, accurate information to our farming teams, we can make faster, data-driven decisions that improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall fruit quality. These innovations position us to meet evolving market demands while maintaining a competitive edge.”
9.) GAI News: What type of investor is permanent cropland ideal for and why is now a good time to consider this asset class?
Columbia Farm Services: “Permanent cropland is best suited for investors with a long-term vision for irrigated agricultural land. The fruit industry remains a stable and essential sector, and current market conditions are beginning to present value-buy opportunities.
“Like the stock market, it is difficult to pinpoint absolute market lows or highs, but historical data suggests that the next two years could be an optimal time for entry. Investors who understand market cycles and take a strategic approach can position themselves for strong returns as the industry stabilizes and grows.
“This asset class is also ideal for investors seeking a true partnership—one built on mutual trust, transparent communication, and shared goals of quality and profitability. With the right alignment, permanent cropland offers both resilience and long-term value in an evolving agricultural landscape.”
Closing Statement:
To learn more about Columbia Farm Services and the opportunities in Pacific Northwest agriculture, connect with the Columbia Farm Services team at Global AgInvesting 2025. If you’re unable to attend, visit columbiafarmservices.com to start the conversation—they look forward to connecting.
About Columbia Farm Services:
Columbia Farm Services is a leading agricultural management company specializing in permanent and row crop investments across Washington. With over 5,500 acres under management, we partner with funds, asset managers, private offices, and individual investors to drive profitability and long-term growth. Our approach is rooted in financial transparency, standardization, and operational excellence, creating economies of scale for our partners. Built on integrity and trust, we provide expert management, strategic guidance, and a commitment to delivering exceptional fruit quality. Columbia Farm Services is dedicated to maximizing value and ensuring sustainable success in agricultural investments.
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