USDA Boost Edible Bean Estimates

WASHINGTON - Jan 12/10 - SNS -- U.S. dry edible bean production is estimated at 25.4 million cwt (100 pound units) for 2009, up 1% from the December 1 forecast but 1% below 2008, according to the USDA's final crop report for 2009.

Planted area is estimated at 1.54 million acres, up slightly from the December 1 forecast and 3% above 2008. Harvested area totaled 1.46 million acres, 1% above the December 1 forecast and the previous year's acreage. Average U.S. yield, at 1,733 pounds per acre, decreased 4 pounds from December's forecast and 35 pounds from 2008.

Production is higher than last year in 10 of the 17 States in the dry bean estimating program in 2009; however, in the top 4 producing States, production is below last year. Production in North Dakota, the largest producing State, is down 15% from a year ago, while Michigan dropped 3% from 2008. Minnesota and Nebraska's production decreased 11% and 15%, respectively.

In North Dakota, planting was delayed due to saturated fields and cool temperatures. Harvest began in mid-September, about two weeks behind the 5- year average, and was essentially complete by mid-November. In Nebraska, hail and cool temperatures early in the growing season left the crop susceptible to disease pressure. As a result, some reduced yields and low quality beans were reported. Excessive moisture and cold weather slowed Minnesota's dry bean maturation and harvest. Several growers reported leaving acres in the fields or tilling them under.