Modest Hike in Grape Harvest

WASHINGTON - Aug 12/08 - SNS -- U.S. grape production is forecast at 7.20 million tons, up 3% from 2007 and 13% above 2006, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates

California leads the U.S. in grape production with 89% of the total. Washington and New York are the next largest producing States, with 5% and 2%, respectively. California's all grape forecast, at 6.40 million tons, is up 6% from the July forecast and 3% above 2007. Washington growers expect to harvest 375,000 tons, virtually unchanged from a year ago. New York's forecast, at 165,000 tons, is 8% below last year.

Washington's production is forecast at 375,000 tons, virtually unchanged from a year ago. Wine grape production is forecast at 135,000 tons, 6% above 2007. If realized, this will be Washington's largest wine grape crop on record, surpassing last year's record crop. The increase in production is mostly due to more acreage coming into full production. The juice type grape forecast, at 240,000 tons, is 4% below the 2007 crop. Colder than normal temperatures lingered late into the season with frosts occurring in April.

Grape production for New York is forecast at 165,000 tons, 8% below last year. Erie County, the Chautauqua Region and the Finger Lakes Region were negatively impacted by frost and hail this growing season. Many growers in Erie County reported a reduced crop while some are reporting a total loss. The majority of Long Island growers escaped much of the adverse weather and are expecting an above average crop.

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