Washington State University Extension announced a series of study circles for pear producers, beginning Oct. 19 and running through Feb. 22, 2022.

The series was created to provide learning opportunities for growers, consultants, researchers and industry professionals to learn from one another and to improve pear profitability and sustainability, according to a news release.

Scheduled on Tuesdays from 3–6 p.m. at the Mission Creek Community Club in Cashmere, each study circle includes a 30-minute presentation and two hours of facilitated discussion. A simultaneous virtual option will also be available on Zoom. Walk-ins are OK for in-person attendance. Registration is required for attending via Zoom.

Two Washington State Department of Agriculture pesticide credits are available for integrated pest management sessions.

2021–22 Pear IPM study circles

—Oct. 19 — Choosing products that work: A discussion of pesticide efficacy.

—Nov. 23 — Honeydew washing systems: Adding a cultural control to your toolbox.

—Dec. 14 — Using pear psylla phenology to better time applications.

—Jan. 11 — Assembling IPM programs that work.

—Feb. 8 — How can we integrate thresholds and scouting?

2021–22 Pear horticulture study circles

—Oct. 26 — Are you happy with your orchard productivity?

—Nov. 30 — Irrigation for fruit quality.

—Feb. 22 — Pear postharvest survey and superficial scald.

For more session details, contact information and registration links, visit the WSU Extension events page at: http://treefruit.wsu.edu/events.

—by Jonelle Mejica