U.S. Canola Output Plunges

WASHINGTON - Oct 12/06 - SNS -- This year's canola harvest in the United States is expected to total 1.22 billion pounds, down 23% from 2005, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Area planted, at 1.05 million acres, is up 3% from the June estimate but down 10% from last year. Canola farmers expect to harvest 1.01 million acres, up 3% from June but down 10% from 2005.

The October yield forecast, at 1,212 pounds per acre, is 207 pounds below last year's yield. If realized, the U.S. yield will be the second lowest on record since estimates began in 1991.

North Dakota's yield, at 1,200 pounds per acre, is down 240 pounds from last year as hot, dry weather during the June and July decreased yields and led to an early harvest. If realized, this will be the second lowest yield on record for North Dakota since estimates began in 1991.

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