Tree Fruit Expected To Enjoy A Strong Season
As our look at Northwest Farm Credit Services’ 4th quarter snapshot rolls on, we turn to tree fruit. Karen Witt, Northwest Farm Credit Services Vice President, says they expect slight profits for pear growers during the 2018-19 growing season.
"After three years of small crops, this season’s tonnage is finally solid. However, shipments are down dramatically due to subdued consumer demand and difficulty with marketing a crop that is almost 20% larger than last season. Fire blight was severe this season and growers who had increased mitigation costs or reduced yields will have smaller returns.”
When it comes to apples, Witt says the 2018-19 crop is predicted to be profitable.
“This season’s crop is lighter than the last few years and fruit quality is favorable resulting in strong returns to growers. Although tariffs have decreased exports, the small crop is buffering the negative effects.”
We’ll continue our look at the 4th quarter snapshots Wednesday, when we look at cattle and dairy.
If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com
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