Drazan Says More Needs To Be Done For Oregon Pear Growers

In response to a catastrophic pear season, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek recently asked for federal assistance.  However, her Republican challenger this November said the state needs to take action to preserve family pear orchards in the Columbia River Gorge.

"We can immediately delay the implementation of costly new agricultural housing rules. We can immediately pause the ag overtime rules that are going into place soon," said state Senator Christine Drazan.  She added the legislature’s emergency board could also provide zero-interest loans.

Lesley Tamura, Chair of Columbia Gorge Fruit Growers, said it’s been a season of unprecedented competition and pest pressure.

"This season demonstrated that growers can do everything right and still face losses beyond our control," Tamura said.  "Our packing houses have had to throw away truckloads of our fruit on a daily basis this year."

And, she said, those with fruit they can sell their fruit are forced to sell for less than it costs to produce.

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