Cherry Crop Estimate Remains Unchanged

The third projection of the 2021 cherry crop looks very similar to the second projection. According to Northwest Cherry Growers, the estimated 2021 crop remains effectively unchanged at 223,700 tons. If that figure holds, this season would be about 17.7% larger than last year’s crop, but 5.7% smaller from 2019’s crop. Even though the net result was a negligible change to the fresh market estimate, there were significant changes within different districts and growers.

Reports from Rainier/yellow cherry growers have been “very promising”.  In response to surges in demand from largely younger consumers, Rainier growers have reportedly committed a great amount of energy to gently increase the Northwest's overall yellow cherry yield.  The Round 3 estimate for 2021 actually increased a bit from the Round Two, and either way is on course to produce more promotable volume than last season.

Growers reported that frosts in April thinned the crop in several pockets, resulting in a few No Pick situations. Based on the best information available at this time:

• While volume may accumulate more slowly, as the end of June approaches we expect shipping volumes to exceed last year.
• Supplies for late June and the 4^th of July promotions look very promising.
• July will be a strong month all the way through.

August will have opportunity for at least one ad this season with projected volume trickling out through the end of the month.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com