Art and Laurie Rogers are typical of the people who have played an important role in the history of apple orchards in the Okanagan Valley. Art was asked, “What have you liked and disliked about growing apples?” He replied, “I have enjoyed everything. I have no regrets after 80 years in the apple industry.”

It is because of hardy people like the Rogers that the apple industry has endured in the southern interior for over 140 years. Art thinks the future of apple growing in the Okanagan depends on active support from the public. “People, especially residents of British Columbia, must make an effort to buy BC apples if the industry is to survive.” Small and large orchardists alike deserve support and applause from all Okanagan Valley residents. The orchardists’ majestic apple trees truly make the Okanagan Valley the Garden of Eden.