Record U.S. Field Pea Harvest

VANCOUVER - Nov 9/07 - SNS -- Pea and lentil production in the primary producing regions of the United States ended up at a record 950,637 metric tons (MT) this year, according to the latest USDA crop production estimates. But, markets do not see the numbers as bearish.

Combined output of peas, lentils and chickpeas is up 14.9% from last year's and just ahead of the previous record of 929,738 MT set in 2005. Field peas were behind the increase, with combined whole green and yellow pea production advancing from 598,884 to 708,745 MT this year; while lentil production was up 11,000 tons at 158,305; Austrian winter pea was little changed at 11,555 MT; and chickpeas should be up just over 2,000 tons at 72,032 MT.

Commenting on this year's estimates, the USDA said average field pea yields were up 438 pounds per harvested acre at 1,031 pounds per acre; more than offsetting the impact of a 8% drop in harvested are to 809,300 acres.

North Dakota retained its status as the largest field pea producing area in the United States, with this year's crop coming in at 10.4 million cwt (100 pound units) or 471,741 MT, up 12% from last season. Harvested acres, at 500,000, decreased 15% but yields are up 500 pounds per acre from last season.

Commenting on the situation in the state, the USDA said, "Planting started in mid-April and was complete by May 20, ahead of last year. Soil moisture supplies rated adequate through June, then deteriorated to mostly short to adequate the remainder of the growing season. Above normal temperatures during the growing season promoted crop development. Crop condition was rated mostly good throughout the season. Harvest started the third week of July and was complete by late August."

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