Northwest pears

Leading pear researchers, growers and marketers from around the world will converge on Wenatchee, Washington State, for the Interpera Congress.

The tenth edition of the congress, being held on 15 – 16 June, will feature presentations on emerging pear varieties, root stock development, harvest and packhouse mechanisation, integrated pest management, export trade flows and successful practices for building demand for pears in consumer markets.

A programme field day will include tours of orchards with high-density pear plantings and an opportunity to see a fresh cut apple slicing operation.

It will be the first time the conference is held in the US.

“It is an honor and an excellent opportunity to host the collaboration of world thought leaders in one of the premier pear growing areas in the world.” said Kevin Moffitt, co-host of the conference and president and chief executive of Pear Bureau Northwest.

“The attendees will learn about the latest innovations in new pear varieties, mechanisation and growing practices with tours of high density and traditional orchards set in the beautiful valleys of the region.”