27.2 Million Bag Dry Bean Harvest

WASHINGTON - Jan 12/06 - SNS -- Dry edible bean production in the United States is estimated at 27.2 million cwt (100 pound units) for 2005, up less than 1% from the December forecast and 53% above last year, according to the USDA's final crop production report for 2005.

Harvested acreage is estimated at 1.56 million acres, virtually unchanged from the last forecast but 28% above 2004. The average U.S. yield is estimated at 1,742 pounds per acre, an increase of 11 pounds from the December forecast and 283 pounds above a year ago.

Production is up from 2004 in 15 of the 17 major producing States. Most notable is a 111% increase from last year in Minnesota. Production is up from a year ago for large lima, baby lima, navy, great northern, pinto, light red kidney, dark red kidney, pink, small red, blackeye, and small and large chickpeas. Production decreased from last year for small white, cranberry, and black.

Production in North Dakota is estimated at 8.59 million cwt, 81% above 2004. The average yield, at 1,520 pounds per acre, is up 520 pounds from last year. Harvested acres, at 565,000, increased 19%. Harvest was essentially complete by mid-October, slightly ahead of average and over two weeks ahead of last year.

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