2008 Pear Harvest Declines

WASHINGTON - Aug 12/08 - SNS -- U.S. pear production for 2008 is forecast at 821,750 tons, down 6% from last year and 2% below 2006, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates

Bartlett pear production for California, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 408,000 tons, 7% above the June forecast but 4% less than a year ago. Other pear production in the Pacific Coast States is expected to total 394,000 tons, 8% below last year but 2% above 2006.

Bartlett production for California is forecast at 200,000 tons, up 14% from the June forecast but virtually unchanged from 2007. The mid-April freeze caused less damage than originally assessed. Most damage was reported in the Mendocino-Lake regions. In Washington, Bartlett production is forecast at 150,000 tons, equal to the June forecast but 8% below the previous season. Bad weather during pollination and a long and difficult frost season hindered the crop. In April, nighttime temperatures dropped below freezing. Unfavorable weather conditions have delayed harvest by up to two weeks.

Other pear production in Washington is forecast at 205,000 tons, 14% below a year ago but 5% above 2006. Growers experienced an extended cold spring, a difficult frost season and poor pollination. In Oregon, other pear production is forecast at 145,000 tons, 1% below last year and 5% below 2006. Growers along the Washington border reported production decreases, while many producers near the California border are expecting increased production.

The pear crop in New York is forecast at 9,700 tons, down 12% from last year and 39% below the 2006 crop. Growers experienced below average conditions, with reported hail and early season frost. The Michigan pear crop is forecast at 3,750 tons, down 6% from last year. Multiple spring freezes were variable in the amount of sustained damage. Some growers experienced a complete loss, while others expressed expectations of a good crop. Colorado, Connecticut and Pennsylvania growers reported decreased production from a year ago.

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