Santiago Gonzalez picks a Golden Bosc in Odell, Oregon, in mid-September. Weather damage cut the Northwest’s expected Bosc crop by over 60 percent, while the region estimates 10.6 million boxes — a decline of 31 percent — across all varieties. (TJ Mullinax/Good Fruit Grower)
Santiago Gonzalez picks a Golden Bosc in Odell, Oregon, in mid-September. Weather damage cut the Northwest’s expected Bosc crop by over 60 percent, while the region estimates 10.6 million boxes — a decline of 31 percent — across all varieties. (TJ Mullinax/Good Fruit Grower)

As the 2024 pear harvest continues around the Northwest, the industry expects to harvest 10.6 million 44-pound boxes. 

Pear Bureau Northwest announced on Sept. 17 its first official crop estimate for this season, which proved difficult to estimate following freeze damage in the northern growing regions. The crop is down 31 percent from the five-year average, according to the news release.

“Despite this year’s shorter crop and some regional differences in overall appearance,” said CarrieAnn Arias, president and CEO, “this year’s harvest will continue to deliver a great eating experience for the consumer.”

The Bosc crop suffered the worst damage and will be down over 60 percent from last year, while Green Anjou will be down 36 percent. 

The short crop will likely mean fewer exports, said Jeff Correa, director of international marketing. 

“The expectation, due to the size of the crop, is that Mexico and Canada will receive the bulk of the export volume this season,” he said in the release. Promotional efforts are poised to be deployed in other regions as needed, he said. 

The release also detailed the promotional efforts planned by Pear Bureau Northwest under the brand USA Pears. Those include educating consumers about different varieties and providing recipes to showcase them, plus partnerships with the company producing Tajín, dietitians and food-focused influencers on social media. 

—by Kate Prengaman