Record U.S. Lentil Harvest

WASHINGTON - Nov 9/10 - SNS --Lentil production in the United Ststes 49% over last year to a record 8.75 million cwt (100 pound units), according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Area for harvest is forecast at 628,000 acres, up 54% from the previous year. Average yield is expected to be 1,393 pounds per acre, down 47 pounds per acre from 2009. If realized, these would be the largest planted, harvested, and production levels since records began in 1986.

North Dakota's production, at 3.89 million cwt, is up 52% from 2009. Harvested area, at 254,000 acres, is up 55% from last year, while average yield, at 1,530 pounds per acre, decreased by 30 pounds. Planting started in late April, about the same as last year and was essentially completed by the end of May. Soil moisture supplies were rated mostly adequate throughout the growing season with more favorable temperatures reported than in 2009. Harvest started in early August and was finished by the end of September, about a week behind the previous year.

Montana's production is forecast at 3.68 million cwt, up 130% from last year. Harvested area increased 111% from 2009, while average yield increased by 120 pounds per acre to 1,500. Lentils were 94% planted by May 31 and 99% emerged by June 20. Crop condition by mid-August was rated mostly in the good to excellent range. Lentil harvest was nearly completed by October 3.