Large Decline in U.S. Lemon Harvest

WASHINGTON - Jul 12/04 - SNS -- Production of other types of citrus fruit in the United States will experience a net decline this year, led lower by smaller lemon and tangelo harvests, according to the latest USDA crop production report.

The 2003-04 U.S. lemon crop is 798,000 tons, down 19% from the previous forecast and 22% below last season's final utilization. California production is forecast at 18.0 million boxes (684,000 tons), down 22% from the previous forecast and 25% below the 2002-03 season.

Then USDA said a heat wave in April lowered earlier production expectations. Harvest continues in the South Coastal area. Prices are higher in response to strong demand for all sizes. Arizona's 2003-04 lemon forecast, at 3.00 million boxes (114,000 tons), is unchanged from the previous forecast and season.

Florida's 2003-04 tangelo production forecast is final at 1.00 million boxes (45,000 tons), unchanged from June but 57% less than last season's utilized production.

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