Pear growers invited to research seminars

California pear growers may expand their knowledge on rootstalks, pest challenges, weed management and pear genomics at one of two in-person regional meetings sponsored by the University of California Cooperative Extension, the California Pear Advisory Board and the Pear Pest Management Research Fund.

The Sacramento River pear research meeting will be held on Feb. 7 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Walnut Grove Library meeting room at 14177 N. Market St. in Walnut Grove. A research meeting for the North Coast will be held Feb. 9 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Mendocino County Agricultural Center at 890 N. Bush St. in Ukiah.

At both meetings, UC researchers plan to discuss website support for the Pear Genomics Research Network, development of a transgene-free gene editing system in European pear, rootstalks and orchard systems for European pears. They will also provide an update on the brown marmorated stinkbug, discuss fungicides to control pear scab and evaluate new bactericides to control fire blight.

At the North Coast meeting, additional discussion will include presentations about common violations and an update on laws and regulations by Mendocino County Department of Agriculture staff. Other presentations by UC staff will cover ecosystem services and disservice from birds in agriculture, as well as weed management in pear orchards.

For more information about either meeting, contact the UCCE office in Lakeport at 707-263-6838.