Edible Bean Estimate Up 1% in U.S.

WASHINGTON - Oct 12/05 - SNS -- U.S. dry edible bean production is forecast at 26.1 million cwt (100 pound units) for 2005, up 1% from the August forecast and 47% above last year, according to the latest USDA crop production estimates.

Harvested acreage is forecast at 1.52 million acres, 1% below the August forecast but up 25% from last year. The average U.S. yield is forecast at 1,715 pounds per acre, an increase of 28 pounds from the August forecast and 255 pounds above last year. Planted acres are estimated at 1.66 million acres, a decrease of 1% from earlier forecasts but a 23% increase from 2004.

Since August, production forecasts increased 23% in South Dakota, 7% in Nebraska, 6% in Washington, 5% in North Dakota, and 4% in Texas. Production forecasts decreased 20% in New York, 10% in California, 6% in Michigan, and 3% in Idaho.

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