Sharp Drop in U.S. Tart Cherry Crop

WASHINGTON - Jun 19/08 - SNS -- Sweet cherry production in the United States is forecast at 249,580 tons, down 23% from 2007 and 15% below 2006, according to the USDA's latest production estimates.

The Washington crop forecast of 100,000 tons is unchanged from the June forecast. The forecast is 41% below the 2007 production and 40% below the production in 2006. Cool temperatures during bloom inhibited bee activity and pollination, then a mid-April frost severely damaged a large portion of the sweet cherry crop.

Production in California is forecast at 86,000 tons, 1% higher than the 2007 production and 104% above 2006. The California forecast is carried forward from June. Cool temperatures and light rain were beneficial to fruit growth.

Oregon production is forecast at 35,000 tons, unchanged from the previous forecast and 2007 production but 36% below the production in 2006. Projected production levels varied considerably among growers in different regions.

The Michigan crop is forecast at 25,000 tons, 8% below the 2007 production but 25% higher than the 2006 crop. Multiple spring frosts damaged some cherry orchards, resulting in reduced yields.

Idaho is expecting a sweet cherry crop of 2,100 tons, up 40% from last year but 45% lower than 2006. Despite a mid-April frost, the sweet cherry crop is expected to be higher than last year.

New York production is forecast at 1,030 tons, 13% below the 2007 crop but 7% higher than 2006. A cold start to the season and dry conditions in some areas reduced yields.

Utah production is expected to total 450 tons, down 64% from 2007 and down 75% from 2006. Frosts and cold summer temperatures decimated flower buds.

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