USDA Slashes 2004 Prune Numbers

WASHINGTON - Jun 10/04 - SNS -- Production of both prunes and apricots will be down this year in California, according to the USDA's latest crop production estimates.

California's 2004 prune production is forecast at a record low 70,000 dried tons, down 61% from last year's revised crop of 181,000 tons and 59% below 2002. If realized, this year's crop would be the smallest on record since official estimates began in 1920. The 2004 crop suffered significant damage from a mid-March hot spell. The heat occurred during full bloom, which caused blossoms to mature before the pollination process was completed.

California's 2004 production is forecast at 90,000 tons, down 3% from the 2003 crop but 6% greater than 2002. Weather was excellent during bloom, with warm temperatures throughout the apricot producing areas. Favorable weather contributed to a good fruit set. Harvest for fresh use began the end of April, while harvest for processing began during early June, approximately two weeks ahead of last year. Excellent fruit quality is reported.

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