Horticultural production in Latvia has always been subject to numerous and diverse risks similar to other branches of crop plant production in Latvia. On the other hand, the climate of Latvia is favourable for plant crop growing but the value of production depends on climatic condition as well as field management and competence of the farmers. The markets of inputs used in strawberry, raspberry, and cherry farming have a direct impact on risks through unexpected rise in prices. Similarly, returns from horticultural outputs are affected by high volatility of fresh farm produce markets. Besides that, growers face the inevitable yield risks induced by adverse weather conditions, pests, and diseases. There are a few systems used in production of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries - extensive and intensive growing both in open and covered areas. These methods vary by the level of risks and necessary investments. The production of berries and stone fruit in areas covered by polyethylene tunnels is expanding. The tunnel method of production provides better climatic conditions and reduces the damage by pests and diseases, thus, contributing to a longer and more predictable shelf life of the fruit. Production in tunnels extend the harvest season. High tunnels, in turn, can advance harvest dates earlier. Beyond the normal season, there is less competition and producer prices can be set higher. The aim of the study is the assessment of general risks in strawberry, raspberry, and cherry production, risks in production with various methods at farm level and evaluation of the tradeoffs among farming risks and expected returns
