Kotek Requests Federal Disaster Designation For Pear Growers

Oregon Governor Tina Kotek is asking the USDA to declare a disaster for Hood River and Wasco counties following devastating losses to this year's pear crop.

Kotek said last week's request comes after the worst pear psylla infestation many Columbia Gorge growers have seen in nearly 50 years.  Combined with extreme summer heat, low snowpack, and limited irrigation, the damage is estimated at between $40-$45 million, cutting grower revenue by about half.

“Oregon’s pear growers are facing serious losses after an extremely difficult crop year,” Governor Kotek said. “I want growers to know that we have their back. I have directed state agencies to coordinate closely with growers and local partners and identify every available pathway to support affected producers and rural communities while we work with USDA to unlock federal relief as quickly as possible.”

Pear psylla damaged the 2025 crop by coating trees and fruit in honeydew, which led to black sooty mold and left many pears unmarketable

“A disaster designation will not solve every challenge facing growers, but it can put critical federal recovery tools within reach,” Governor Kotek said. “Oregon is ready to move quickly with USDA, growers, and local partners to support the families and communities affected by this crisis.” 

The 2025 crop was also hurt by weak market conditions following last year's large harvest and the closure of the Del Monte cannery in Yakima, which added more pears to an already oversupplied fresh market.

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