Pear Output Sinks 22%

WASHINGTON - Aug 12/24 - SNS -- United States pear total production for 2024 is forecast at 520,000 tons, down 22% from last year, according to the USDA.

In Washington, the largest producing State, the pear crop was significantly impacted by cold weather in mid-January. Temperatures as low as -11 degrees in some areas damaged the buds and trees.

The damage varied by region, however, the Walla Walla Valley and Lake Chelan areas were reported to have been hit the hardest. There were also reports of another freeze during blooming stage in the spring. As a result, the crop is forecast to have the lowest production, dating back to 2007.

In Oregon, cold, wet weather also impacted the crop. Production is expected to be the lowest since 2010.

In California, harvest began in mid- July. Overall, the crop has good size, quality and flavor, however, during the blooming period, the crop was negatively impacted by late rains. Production is expected to be the second lowest since 2007.

Pear Production - States and United States: 2023 and Forecasted August 1, 2024
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    :                     Total production
        State       :-----------------------------------------------------------
                    :            2023             :            2024
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                    :                           tons
                    :
California .........:           162,500                       135,000
Oregon .............:           236,000                       200,000
Washington .........:           267,000                       185,000
                    :
United States ......:           665,500                       520,000
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------