Bartlett Pear Harvest Slips in U.S.

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/04 - SNS -- The 2004 sweet cherry production for California, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 243,000 tons, up 13% from 2003 and 40% above 2002, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

Washington's 2004 production is forecast at a record high 135,000 tons, up 16% from last year. Washington's cherry crop experienced unusually warm conditions during the spring, which contributed to a good bloom. Most growers are reporting crop sizes equal to or greater than a year ago. Some of the increase in production can be attributed to the increasing potential of young plantings.

The California crop, at 65,000 tons, is up 5% from 2003. Adequate chilling hours and ideal weather conditions during bloom and the growing season have contributed to this production increase. Harvest began in late April and will continue through the second week of June. Fruit quality is reported to be excellent.

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