Sweet Corn Contracts Drop 4%

WASHINGTON - Sep 7/06 - SNS -- Contracted sweet corn production is forecast at 3.03 million tons in the United States this year, down 4% from last year, reports the USDA.

A decrease of 3% in contracted harvested area is accompanied by a decrease in yield of 0.13 ton per acre when comparing the 2006 season to 2005.

In Minnesota, cold, wet conditions slowed planting during the first half of May. Warm, drier conditions followed which helped to dry wet spots. Planting moved quickly once soils were workable. As of June 2nd, topsoil moisture supplies across the State were rated 72% adequate.

As of June 18th, the crop was 92% planted. Hot, dry conditions persisted during July with moisture supplies dipping as low as 15% adequate with temperatures in the 90's. Precipitation during the first half of August helped to improve moisture supplies. As of August 18th, topsoil moisture supplies were rated 47% adequate and harvest was 49% complete.

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