U.S. Lentil Numbers Trimmed

WASHINGTON - Jan 11/08 - SNS -- Lentil production is estimated at 3.41 million cwt (100 pound units) or 154,586 metric tons (MT) for 2007, down 2% from the November 1 forecast but 5% above 2006, according to the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) final crop report for 2007.

Planted area, at 303,000 acres, remains unchanged from the previous forecast but is 29% below the previous season. Harvested area, at 295,000 acres, is down 1,000 acres from the November 1 forecast and 28% below last year. Average yield per acre, at 1,155 pounds, is 24 pounds below November's forecast but 358 pounds above last year.

North Dakota's production is estimated at 1.34 million cwt, up 10% from 2006. Soil moisture supplies were rated adequate through June, then deteriorated to mostly short to adequate for the remainder of the growing season. Above normal temperatures throughout the growing season promoted crop development. Harvest of the crop started the third week of July and was complete by mid-September.

Montana's production, at 842 thousand cwt, is up 5% from a year ago. Above normal temperatures and heavy precipitation during most of April caused a short delay in planting. From the beginning of May until mid-June, the State continued to receive above normal precipitation with average temperatures. During July and August, the State had both above normal temperatures and limited precipitation.

In Washington, the State experienced normal growing temperatures with light precipitation in April. By early May, conditions were dry and rain was badly needed. Early June brought rain showers to the lentil growing areas. Harvest went well and ended in early September.

Subscribers can read the full text of the article by Clicking here