Pear growers will have an opportunity to hear from a panel of consumers during the Pear Bureau Northwest’s annual meeting in Portland, Oregon, on June 1.

Eight consumers from the Portland area will discuss their preferences in terms of pears. They’ll tell what they know about ripening pears and discuss barriers that prevent them from buying more pears. These are issues that the Pear Bureau is trying to address through its consumer education efforts.

“We think it’s a good idea for our industry to have a firsthand glimpse of what we’re working on with consumers,” said Laura Wieking, public relations manager.

At the end of the session, the audience will be invited to ask the panelists questions.

Kevin Moffitt, Pear Bureau president, will moderate the discussion, which will follow the Pear Bureau’s annual presentation to the industry. Staff will report on results from the 2005-2006 season and plans for the season ahead. It will tie in with the Pear Bureau’s 75th anniversary this year.

The meeting, which will be at the Portland Marriott Downtown on the Waterfront, is open to the industry and public. It will be followed by meetings of the Pear Bureau’s board of directors, the Fresh Pear Committee, the Processed Pear Committee, and the Pacific Northwest Canned Pear Service. For information, call (503) 652-9720.