Yakima's Historic Johnson's Orchards Has Closed
After 122 years of operation, the family-owned business is shuttering as the owners head into retirement.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Organic Food
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Johnson's Orchards in Yakima has announced its permanent closure following over a century of serving the local community. The multi-generational farm and market, known for its fresh produce and artisan goods, is ending operations as owners Eric and Jill Johnson retire.
Why it matters
The closure marks the end of a 122-year legacy that connected the Yakima community to locally sourced produce and artisan goods. As a long-standing fixture for residents seeking fresh, family-grown food, the departure leaves a gap in the local agricultural retail landscape.
The closure concludes 122 years of business activity under four generations of family leadership. While the announcement confirms the end of operations, details regarding the land's future use or potential sale are not currently public.
The players
Eric Johnson
Owner of the multi-generational family business that provided fresh produce and artisan goods to the Yakima community.
Jill Johnson
Co-owner of the longstanding orchard that operated in Yakima for 122 years before announcing its closure.
The details
The orchard was a cornerstone of the region, operating through four generations of family ownership. The business specialized in offering fresh, locally harvested produce alongside a variety of artisan goods and handmade pastries. Owners Eric and Jill Johnson officially announced their decision to step away to focus on rest and travel, effectively ending the legacy operation.
Timeline
October 13, 2026: Owners announced the closure of Johnson's Orchards.
Health Landscape
The closure of this orchard reflects a broader pattern observed in the USDA Census of Agriculture regarding the decline of small-scale multi-generational farms. This shift impacts local access to fresh, direct-to-consumer produce and alters the landscape of community-based food systems.
Residents who relied on this orchard for fresh, locally grown produce may need to seek out new farmers' markets or agricultural suppliers in the Yakima area. Consult with local agricultural extensions to identify new community-supported agriculture programs that meet your nutritional needs.
The takeaway
The closure of such a long-standing business emphasizes the importance of supporting local agricultural resources while they are active. Residents can ensure their access to fresh food remains consistent by tracking the opening dates and seasonal offerings of other regional providers.
Further reading
For more on finding local sources of seasonal produce, visit Organic Food.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 1280 NewsTalk KIT.
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