More Bean Acreage in United States

WASHINGTON - Mar 31/06 - SNS -- Prospective 2006 planting of dry beans in the U.S. totals 1.71 million acres, up 3% from last year and 26% above 2 years ago, according to the USDA.

A return to average yields would see production slip from 1.24 million metric tons (MT) last year to 1.16 million this season.

The USDA said the increase in planted acres can be contributed in part to higher demand for chickpeas and lower prices for crops farmers could plant instead of dry beans. Six States expect to plant more dry bean acres than a year ago, 4 States expect planted acres to be unchanged, while acreage in 8 States is expected to be down from 2005.

North Dakota farmers expect a 16% increase in dry bean acreage this year. Washington's prospective acreage is up 43%. Kansas growers expect an 8% increase, while Oregon dry bean acreage is expected to go up 33%. New Mexico producers expect planted acres to be up 37%, while prospective dry bean acres in Utah rose 11%.

Acres in Idaho, Montana, New York, and Wisconsin are expected to be unchanged from 2005.

Michigan growers expect a 4% decrease if current plans are realized. Nebraska farmers expect a 6% drop in dry bean acreage this year. Minnesota's prospective acreage is down 21%. Colorado growers expect a 20% decrease, while California dry bean acreage is expected to go down 2%. Wyoming and Texas dry bean acreage is expected to decrease 12%, while South Dakota prospective acreage is down 3%.

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