3% Increase in Pear Harvest Forecast

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/-9 - SNS -- Production of Bartlett Pears in California, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 423,000 tons, up 3% from last year but equal to the 2007 production, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Production in California is forecast at 190,000 tons, down 3% from last season and 5% below 2 years ago. Bartlett bloom began in March and was reported to be excellent. Growing conditions have been favorable with minimal frost damage reported.

Washington's Bartlett crop is forecast at 170,000 tons, up 8% from 2008 and 4% above 2 years ago. Despite a cold winter and cooler than normal spring, minimal damage was reported. Grower comments indicated good overall bloom densities and fruit set. However, many producers reported a large volume of small fruit.

Oregon growers expect to harvest 63,000 tons, up 11% from last year and 7% above the 2007 Bartlett crop.

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