Slight Drop in Peach Crop Forecast

WASHINGTON - Aug 12/08 - SNS -- The August 2008 forecast of U.S. peach production is 1.09 million tons, down less than 1% from the July 1 forecast and 3% below 2007, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

South Carolina's forecast, at 52,000 tons, is down 3,000 tons from the July 1 forecast but over four times above last season's frost damaged crop. Crop condition has decreased slightly since July 1 as producers have reported more cold injury from spring freezing temperatures and smaller sizing caused by recent year's drought-like conditions. New Jersey's production remained unchanged from the July 1 forecast but increased 6% from last season's estimate. Many growers reported heat-stressed trees and accelerated maturity of peaches, however early varieties were generally reported as good in spite of high temperatures. Pennsylvania growers reported adequate rain, good fruit size and overall favorable conditions. Forecasted production is up 7% from July 1 and 27% above 2007.

In Washington, many growers reported frost damage and pollination problems due to cold, windy weather. Forecasted production remains unchanged from July 1 but is down 8% from a year ago. Michigan's crop weathered multiple freeze events during the spring, a hail storm during the summer, and poor pollination throughout the development stages. Forecasted production has declined 12% from a month ago and 32% from last season.

The U.S. Freestone crop, as of August 1, is forecast at 713,850 tons, down less than 1% from last month but 14% above last year. The California Freestone forecast, which is carried forward from July 1, at 430,000 tons, is down 4% from 2007 but 22% above the 2006 crop.

California's Clingstone forecast, also carried forward from July 1, is 380,000 tons, down 24% from last season but 6% above 2006.

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