As reported by USDA-NASS (National Ag Statistics Survey):
RESULTS
The initial forecast for the 2010 California almond production is 1.53 billion pounds. This is 8.5 percent above last year's revised production of 1.41 billion pounds. Estimated bearing acreage for 2010 is 740 thousand. This forecast is based on a telephone survey conducted April 23 - May 4 from a sample of almond growers. Of the 485 growers sampled, 317 reported. Acreage from these reports accounted for 28 percent of the total bearing acreage. Despite a variable spring, weather in 2010 had few negative effects on the developing almond crop. Bee activity was reported to have been hampered some by the rain, but overlap of varieties was excellent. Nut sets looked good. Acreages in the San Joaquin Valley that experienced frost damage in 2009 show heavy sets this season. High winds resulted in some nut and tree losses, but damage was not significant. Wet weather increased concerns about fungal infections and rot, but additional sprays have kept the problem in check. A benefit of the cool weather has been low insect pressure; overall, the trees are growing well and the crop is developing in good condition.
PROCEDURES
Results of the subjective survey are based on opinions obtained from growers. The sample of growers changes from year to year and is grouped by size of operation, so all growers will be represented. Each selected grower is asked to indicate their almond yield per acre from last year and expected yield for the current year.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
A special thanks goes to the many almond farm operators and owners who provided information on their operations. The support was outstanding and we appreciate the time they spent completing telephone interviews.
The full report can be found here.
0 comments:
Post a Comment