Record U.S. Cotton Yields in 2004

WASHINGTON - May 12/05 - SNS -- The 2004 all cotton crop is estimated at 23.3 million 480-pound bales, 27% above the 2003 production level, according to the latest USDA crop production estimate.

At the same time, cottonseed production reached a record 8.24 million tons, up 24% from 2003. Sales to oil mills accounted for 55% of the disposition. The remaining 45% will be used for seed, feed, exports, and various other uses.

The U.S. all cotton yield averaged 855 pounds per harvested acre, up 125 pounds per acre from a year ago. The 2004 yield and production are both record highs. Upland cotton production is estimated at 22.5 million 480-pound bales, 26% more than last year's production.

The USDA notes this is the largest production in history, surpassing the 2001 record of 19.6 million 480-pound bales. The U.S. yield for upland cotton is a record high 843 pounds per acre, up 120 pounds more than 2003. American-Pima production totaled 745,600 bales, up 72% from 2003 due to a 40% increase in harvested area and a 273 pound higher yield per acre. American-Pima yield and production are both record highs.

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