Sweet Cherry Output Rising

WASHINGTON - Jun 22/06 - SNS -- Sweet cherry production in the United States is expected to be up 7% over last year at a forecast 268,400 tons, according to the USDA. If achieved, output would be 4% below 2004.

The Washington crop forecast of 150,000 tons is unchanged from the June Crop Production report. The crop is 9% above 2005 and 12% above the production of 2004. If realized, this will be a record high production for Washington surpassing the previous record high set last year.

Eastern Washington producing areas experienced a relatively mild winter. This increased crop size is due to favorable spring growing conditions combined with increasing production from new bearing trees.

Oregon production is forecast at 50,000 tons, also unchanged from the June Crop Production report. The crop is 79% above 2005 and 16% above the production of 2004. Spring conditions have been ideal for many sweet cherry producing areas throughout Oregon.

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