Modest Drop in Spring Potato Output

WASHINGTON - May 9/08 - SNS -- Spring potato production for 2008 is forecast at 19.6 million cwt, down 2% from the April forecast and 1% below 2007, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Area for harvest is forecast at 67,700 acres, up 1% from the previous forecast but 4% lower than last year. The average yield is forecast at 289 cwt per acre, 8 cwt below the April 1 forecast but 7 cwt higher than 2007.

Florida's production is forecast at 8.04 million cwt, 1% lower than the previous forecast. Florida's winter potatoes were combined with spring potatoes in 2007. Light rainfall and low disease pressure kept crop development on schedule.

California spring potato production is forecast at 6.01 million cwt, up 9% from the April 1 forecast. Most growers reported a healthy crop and are expecting excellent yields.

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