After 20 years as conventional pear growers, Omega Farm transitioned to Organic in 1999. Organic farming has taught the Kaseburgs to carefully watch and tenderly care for their orchard through continual applications of mild summer oils, pheromone disruption and mechanical removal of vegetation under the trees. They also conserve natural resources by using a wind generator to help power their house.

This is Omega Farm’s fifth season at the Portland Farmers Market. They credit the market with helping them spread the word about their pears, both through making direct sales and connecting with bulk buyers. The Kaseburgs love to educate market customers about selecting the best ripe pears, but say their favorite part about being at the market is handing out samples to people walking by who think they don’t really like pears, then watching them take a bite, smile and realize they might be mistaken. Look for Omega Farm on Saturdays at the PSU Portland Farmers Market location.