Major Drop in U.S. Lentil Area

WASHINGTON - Jul 12/07 - SNS -- U.S. lentil seedings ended up at 305,000 acres, down 10% from the March planting intentions and 29% below 2006, according to the latest USDA crop production estimates. Harvested area is estimated at 293,000 acres, down 28% from last year.

North Dakota's planted area is estimated at 110,000 acres, down 31% from 2006. Planting of the lentil crop started mid-April and was complete by the third week of May, ahead of last year's pace. Crop condition during June was rated mostly good to excellent with adequate soil moisture supplies reported.

Montana growers planted 85,000 acres this year, 40% less than last year. During April, the State experienced above normal precipitation and temperatures. From the beginning of May until mid-June, the State continued to receive above normal precipitation but temperatures moderated. Since mid-June, the State has received limited precipitation and above average temperatures.

Early in April, Washington experienced normal temperatures with light precipitation. The days grew warmer but some nights were near or below freezing. Planting progress was slightly ahead of last year's pace. Early June brought much needed showers to the lentil growing areas.

Planting in Idaho began in mid-April and progressed ahead of last year but close to normal the rest of the month and during May. Emergence slowed in mid-May as precipitation fell below normal levels in the primary lentil growing areas. Emergence was virtually complete by early June.

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