Improved Lentil Harvest Estimate

WASHINGTON - Jan 12/06 - SNS -- Lentil crops in Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, and Washington are estimated at 5.16 million cwt (100 pound units) for 2005, up 1% from the November 1 forecast and 23% above 2004, according to the USDA's final crop production report for 2005.

Planted area, at 450,000 acres, remains unchanged from the previous forecast but is 30% above the previous season. Harvested area, at 439,000 acres, is 2% above the November 1 forecast and 33% above last year. Average yield per acre, at 1,176 pounds, is 5 pounds below November's forecast and 95 pounds below last year.

Montana's production, at 1.87 million cwt, is up 85% from a year ago. The State experienced warm temperatures with limited moisture from April to the middle of May. From July to August, Montana had above normal temperatures with limited precipitation compared to a year ago.

North Dakota's production is estimated at 1.97 million cwt, up 53% from 2004. Above normal daytime temperatures and dry conditions during most of April allowed producers to plant early. Above normal temperatures and mostly adequate soil moisture during most of the growing season promoted good growing conditions. Mostly dry conditions and below normal temperatures occurred during harvest, which was completed by early September.

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