Crop

Production

National

Agricultural

Statistics

Service

USDA

Washington, D.C.

Released January 9, 1998, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, U.S. Department of Agriculture. For

information on “Crop Production” call at (202) 720-2127, office hours 7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET. Forecasts refer to January 1, 1998. Report features

are located at the end of this report.

Record Large Orange Production

All oranges: Production for the 1997-98 season is forecast at a record large

14.3 million tons, unchanged from the previous forecast in December and up 

12 percent from a year ago, the previous record production year. Florida’s all

orange, early-midseason, and Valencia forecasts remained unchanged from last

month and are each record large crops. The all orange production amounts to 

254 million boxes (11.4 million tons), 12 percent above last season. Early and

midseason varieties are expected to produce 146 million boxes (6.57 million

tons), 9 percent above last year. The Valencia forecast is 108 million boxes

(4.86 million tons), 17 percent above a year ago. The California all orange

production forecast, at 74.0 million boxes (2.78 million tons), remains

unchanged from the previous forecast in October and is 9 percent more than last

season. The Navel orange forecast is 44.0 million boxes (1.65 million tons),

the same as in October and up 10 percent from last year's production. The

California Valencia forecast is unchanged at 30.0 million boxes (1.13 million

tons), 7 percent more than last year.

All cotton production is forecast at 19.0 million bales, up 1 percent from

December, and 34,900 bales above 1996. This is the second largest crop on

record. Yield is expected to average 686 pounds per acre, down 21 pounds from

last year. Georgia’s production was lowered 80,000 bales from last month, as

heavy rainfall during the harvest season decreased yields from earlier

expectations. Production was increased 90,000 bales in Arkansas and 

80,000 bales in North Carolina, as the adverse weather early in the season

didn’t reduce yields as much as growers anticipated. Record yields are expected

in Arkansas, Kansas, Mississippi, and Oklahoma.

Cr Pr 2-2 (1-98)
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 2 NASS, USDA

Florida frozen concentrated orange juice (FCOJ) yield for the 1997-98 season is

forecast at 1.55 gallons per box at 42.0 degrees Brix, unchanged from December. 

Last season’s final yield, as reported by the Florida Citrus Processors

Association, was 1.57 gallons per box at 42.0 degrees Brix. Projected average

yield for early and midseason varieties is 1.48 gallons per box compared to last

season’s final of 1.52. Valencia yield is projected at 1.65 gallons per box

compared to 1.68 last season. 

This report was approved on January 9, 1998.

 _______________________________ _______________________________

 Acting Secretary of Agricultural Statistics Board

 Agriculture Chairperson

 Richard E. Rominger Rich Allen
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 3 NASS, USDA

 

 Crop Summary: Area Planted and Harvested, United States, 

 1996 and Forecasted January 1, 1998 

 (Domestic Units) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area Planted : Area Harvested 

 Crop :-----------------------------------------------------------

 : 1996 : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Acres 

 : 

All Cotton : 14,633.5 13,818.0 12,868.1 13,283.5 

 Upland : 14,375.5 13,566.0 12,612.2 13,032.5 

 Amer-Pima : 258.0 252.0 255.9 251.0 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 Crop Summary: Yield per Acre and Production, United States, 

 1996 and Forecasted January 1, 1998 

 (Domestic Units) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : : Yield per Acre : Production 

 : :-----------------------------------------------------------

 Crop :Unit : : : : Dec 1, : Jan 1, 

 : : 1996 : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : : -------------- 1,000 ------------- 

 : : 

All Cotton 1/ : Bale: 707 686 18,942.0 18,818.5 18,976.9 

 Upland 1/ : " : 701 679 18,413.5 18,285.5 18,439.9 

 Amer-Pima 1/: " : 991 1,027 528.5 533.0 537.0 

Cottonseed : Ton : 7,143.5 7,217.8 7,278.0 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1/ Yield in pounds. 
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 4 NASS, USDA

 Crop Summary: Area Planted and Harvested, United States, 

 1996 and Forecasted January 1, 1998 

 (Metric Units) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area Planted : Area Harvested 

 Crop :-----------------------------------------------------------

 : 1996 : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Hectares 

 : 

All Cotton : 5,922,030 5,592,010 5,207,590 5,375,700 

 Upland : 5,817,620 5,490,020 5,104,030 5,274,120 

 Amer-Pima : 104,410 101,980 103,560 101,580 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

 

 Crop Summary: Yield per Acre and Production, United States, 

 1996 and Forecasted January 1, 1998 

 (Metric Units) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Yield per Hectare : Production 

 :-----------------------------------------------------------

 Crop : : : : Dec 1, : Jan 1, 

 : 1996 : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Metric Tons 

 : 

All Cotton : 0.79 0.77 4,124,140 4,097,250 4,131,740 

 Upland : 0.79 0.76 4,009,070 3,981,200 4,014,820 

 Amer-Pima : 1.11 1.15 115,070 116,050 116,920 

Cottonseed : 6,480,470 6,547,880 6,602,490 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 5 NASS, USDA

 

 Crop Summary: Utilized Production, United States, 

 1996-97 and Forecasted 1997-98 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Utilized Production 

 :--------------------------------------------------------

 Crop : : December 1, : January 1, 

 : : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Crop Year 1/ : 1996-97 1997-98 1997-98 

 : 

 : 1,000 Tons 

 : 

Citrus Fruits : 

 Oranges : 12,827 14,309 14,309 

 Grapefruit : 2,888 2,739 2,739 

 Lemons : 859 935 935 

 Tangerines : 418 370 370 

 Temples (FL) : 108 104 104 

 Tangelos (FL) : 178 149 149 

 K-Early Citrus (FL) : 7 5 5 

 : 

 : Metric Tons 

 : 

 : 

 Oranges : 11,636,460 12,980,910 12,980,910 

 Grapefruit : 2,619,950 2,484,780 2,484,780 

 Lemons : 779,270 848,220 848,220 

 Tangerines : 379,200 335,660 335,660 

 Temples (FL) : 97,980 94,350 94,350 

 Tangelos (FL) : 161,480 135,170 135,170 

 K-Early Citrus (FL) : 6,350 4,540 4,540 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1/ The crop year begins with the bloom of the first year shown and ends with 

 the completion of harvest the following year. 
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 6 NASS, USDA

Crop Summary: Area Planted, Harvested, Yield,

and Production, United States, 1997-98

(Domestic Units)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area Planted : Area Harvested 

 Crop :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1997 : 1998 : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Acres 

 : 

Winter Potatoes : 15.6 16.0 15.4 15.5 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : Yield per Acre : Production 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1997 : 1998 : 1997 : 1998 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : ------- Cwt ------- ----- 1,000 Cwt ----- 

 : 

Winter Potatoes : 203 190 3,124 2,940 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

 

 

 Crop Summary: Area Planted, Harvested, Yield, 

 and Production, United States, 1997-98 

 (Metric Units) 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area Planted : Area Harvested 

 Crop :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1997 : 1998 : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Hectares 

 : 

Winter Potatoes : 6,310 6,480 6,230 6,270 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : Yield per Hectare : Production 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1997 : 1998 : 1997 : 1998 

 :---------------------------------------------------------------

 : Metric Tons 

 : 

Winter Potatoes : 22.74 21.27 141,700 133,360 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 

 

 Crop Summary: Hay Stocks on Farms, United States, 1995-97 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Date : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Tons 

 : 

May 1 : 20,775 20,739 17,372 

Dec 1 : 109,438 104,832 102,517 

 : 

 : Metric Tons 

 : 

May 1 : 18,846,760 18,814,100 15,759,610 

Dec 1 : 99,280,480 95,101,990 93,001,860 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 7 NASS, USDA

Cotton: Area Planted and Harvested by Type, State,

and United States, 1995-97

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Type : Area Planted : Area Harvested 

 and :-------------------------------------------------------------------

 State : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Acres 

 : 

Upland : 

 AL : 590.0 520.0 535.0 578.0 516.0 440.0 

 AZ : 365.0 315.0 320.0 364.0 314.0 319.0 

 AR : 1,170.0 1,000.0 950.0 1,110.0 990.0 940.0 

 CA : 1,170.0 1,000.0 880.0 1,165.0 995.0 875.0 

 FL : 110.0 99.0 100.0 109.0 98.2 99.0 

 GA : 1,500.0 1,340.0 1,440.0 1,490.0 1,336.0 1,430.0 

 KS : 3.8 4.5 15.0 2.6 4.0 13.5 

 LA : 1,085.0 890.0 630.0 1,075.0 885.0 625.0 

 MS : 1,460.0 1,120.0 985.0 1,420.0 1,100.0 970.0 

 MO : 462.0 390.0 380.0 453.0 385.0 375.0 

 NM : 61.0 59.0 70.0 56.0 55.0 66.0 

 NC : 805.0 721.0 670.0 800.0 710.0 665.0 

 OK : 380.0 290.0 200.0 315.0 210.0 190.0 

 SC : 348.0 284.0 290.0 342.0 282.0 285.0 

 TN : 700.0 540.0 500.0 660.0 530.0 490.0 

 TX : 6,400.0 5,700.0 5,500.0 5,750.0 4,100.0 5,150.0 

 VA : 107.0 103.0 101.0 106.0 102.0 100.0 

 :

 US : 16,716.8 14,375.5 13,566.0 15,795.6 12,612.2 13,032.5 

 :

Amer-Pima : 

 AZ : 48.6 42.0 22.0 48.1 41.9 22.0 

 CA : 115.0 165.0 185.0 115.0 164.0 184.0 

 NM : 15.0 14.0 13.0 15.0 14.0 13.0 

 TX : 36.0 37.0 32.0 33.0 36.0 32.0 

 :

 US : 214.6 258.0 252.0 211.1 255.9 251.0 

 :

All : 

 AL : 590.0 520.0 535.0 578.0 516.0 440.0 

 AZ : 413.6 357.0 342.0 412.1 355.9 341.0 

 AR : 1,170.0 1,000.0 950.0 1,110.0 990.0 940.0 

 CA : 1,285.0 1,165.0 1,065.0 1,280.0 1,159.0 1,059.0 

 FL : 110.0 99.0 100.0 109.0 98.2 99.0 

 GA : 1,500.0 1,340.0 1,440.0 1,490.0 1,336.0 1,430.0 

 KS : 3.8 4.5 15.0 2.6 4.0 13.5 

 LA : 1,085.0 890.0 630.0 1,075.0 885.0 625.0 

 MS : 1,460.0 1,120.0 985.0 1,420.0 1,100.0 970.0 

 MO : 462.0 390.0 380.0 453.0 385.0 375.0 

 NM : 76.0 73.0 83.0 71.0 69.0 79.0 

 NC : 805.0 721.0 670.0 800.0 710.0 665.0 

 OK : 380.0 290.0 200.0 315.0 210.0 190.0 

 SC : 348.0 284.0 290.0 342.0 282.0 285.0 

 TN : 700.0 540.0 500.0 660.0 530.0 490.0 

 TX : 6,436.0 5,737.0 5,532.0 5,783.0 4,136.0 5,182.0 

 VA : 107.0 103.0 101.0 106.0 102.0 100.0 

 :

 US : 16,931.4 14,633.5 13,818.0 16,006.7 12,868.1 13,283.5 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 8 NASS, USDA

 Cotton: Yield and Production by Type, State, 

 and United States, 1995-97 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 Type : Yield : Production 1/ 

 And :-------------------------------------------------------------------

 State : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : ------------ Pounds ------ ----- 1,000 Bales 2/ ----- 

 : 

Upland : 

 AL : 409 734 600 492.0 789.0 550.0 

 AZ : 1,046 1,189 1,234 793.0 778.0 820.0 

 AR : 635 793 883 1,468.0 1,636.0 1,730.0 

 CA : 953 1,153 1,207 2,312.0 2,390.0 2,200.0 

 FL : 472 637 655 107.2 130.4 135.0 

 GA : 625 747 638 1,941.0 2,079.0 1,900.0 

 KS : 185 492 601 1.0 4.1 16.9 

 LA : 614 697 756 1,375.0 1,286.0 985.0 

 MS : 622 819 896 1,841.0 1,876.0 1,810.0 

 MO : 544 737 742 513.0 591.0 580.0 

 NM : 609 733 640 71.0 84.0 88.0 

 NC : 479 677 671 798.0 1,002.0 930.0 

 OK : 187 306 505 123.0 134.0 200.0 

 SC : 528 774 674 376.0 455.0 400.0 

 TN : 527 611 643 724.0 675.0 656.0 

 TX : 372 509 494 4,460.0 4,345.0 5,300.0 

 VA : 620 748 667 137.0 159.0 139.0 

 :

 US : 533 701 679 17,532.2 18,413.5 18,439.9 

 :

Amer-Pima : 

 AZ : 720 852 982 72.2 74.4 45.0 

 CA : 937 1,098 1,096 224.5 375.0 420.0 

 NM : 605 651 628 18.9 19.0 17.0 

 TX : 756 801 825 52.0 60.1 55.0 

 :

 US : 836 991 1,027 367.6 528.5 537.0 

 :

All : 

 AL : 409 734 600 492.0 789.0 550.0 

 AZ : 1,008 1,150 1,218 865.2 852.4 865.0 

 AR : 635 793 883 1,468.0 1,636.0 1,730.0 

 CA : 951 1,145 1,188 2,536.5 2,765.0 2,620.0 

 FL : 472 637 655 107.2 130.4 135.0 

 GA : 625 747 638 1,941.0 2,079.0 1,900.0 

 KS : 185 492 601 1.0 4.1 16.9 

 LA : 614 697 756 1,375.0 1,286.0 985.0 

 MS : 622 819 896 1,841.0 1,876.0 1,810.0 

 MO : 544 737 742 513.0 591.0 580.0 

 NM : 608 717 638 89.9 103.0 105.0 

 NC : 479 677 671 798.0 1,002.0 930.0 

 OK : 187 306 505 123.0 134.0 200.0 

 SC : 528 774 674 376.0 455.0 400.0 

 TN : 527 611 643 724.0 675.0 656.0 

 TX : 375 511 496 4,512.0 4,405.1 5,355.0 

 VA : 620 748 667 137.0 159.0 139.0 

 :

 US : 537 707 686 17,899.8 18,942.0 18,976.9 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1/ Production ginned and to be ginned.

2/ 480-Lb. net weight bales.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 9 NASS, USDA

 Cottonseed: Production by State and United States, 1995-97

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Production

 State : --------------------------------------------------

 : 1995 : 1996 : 1997 1/

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Tons

 :

 AL : 162.0 273.0 192.0

 AZ : 334.0 324.0 329.0

 AR : 580.0 635.0 683.0

 CA : 940.0 1,020.0 967.0

 FL : 38.0 46.0 46.0

 GA : 674.0 681.0 640.0

 KS : 0.3 1.4 6.0

 LA : 499.0 499.0 365.0

 MS : 727.0 735.0 712.0

 MO : 221.0 234.0 234.0

 NM : 33.4 38.1 39.0

 NC : 282.0 343.0 325.0

 OK : 56.0 56.0 85.0

 SC : 132.0 155.0 138.0

 TN : 292.0 262.0 259.0

 TX : 1,828.0 1,784.0 2,208.0

 VA : 50.0 57.0 50.0

 :

 US : 6,848.7 7,143.5 7,278.0

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------

 1/ Estimates based on 3-year average lint-seed ratio.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 10 NASS, USDA

 

 Potatoes: Area Planted, Harvested, Yield, and Production 

 by Seasonal Group, State, and United States, 1996-98 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area : : 

 Seasonal :-------------------------------: Yield : Production 

 Group : Planted : Harvested : : 

 and :-------------------------------------------------------------------

 State : 1997 : 1998 : 1997 : 1998 :1997 :1998 : 1996 : 1997 : 1998 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : -------- 1,000 Acres ------- -- Cwt -- ------ 1,000 Cwt ----- 

 : 

Winter : 

 CA : 6.6 7.5 6.6 7.5 240 200 1,425 1,584 1,500 

 FL : 9.0 8.5 8.8 8.0 175 180 1,848 1,540 1,440 

 : 

 Total : 15.6 16.0 15.4 15.5 203 190 3,273 3,124 2,940 

 : 

Spring 1/ : 

 AL : 1.6 1.5 175 304 263 

 AZ : 6.2 6.2 275 2,475 1,705 

 CA : 20.7 20.7 400 7,538 8,280 

 FL : 34.5 33.3 199 7,765 6,641 

 Hastings: 25.5 24.5 210 6,325 5,145 

 Other FL: 9.0 8.8 170 1,440 1,496 

 NC : 17.0 16.5 200 3,230 3,300 

 TX : 8.3 8.0 195 1,105 1,560 

 : 

 Total : 88.3 86.2 252 22,417 21,749 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1/ Revised. 

 

 Papayas: Area and Fresh Production by Month, Hawaii, 1996-97 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Area : Fresh Production 

 :-------------------------------------------------------------------

 Month : Total in Crop : Harvested : : 

 :---------------------------------------------: 1996 : 1997 

 : 1996 : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 : : 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : ---------------- Acres ---------------- 1,000 Pounds 

 : 

Nov : 3,500 3,105 1,400 1,920 2,940 3,085 

Dec : 3,445 3,515 1,470 1,715 3,140 3,040 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 11 NASS, USDA

 

 Citrus Fruits: Utilized Production by Crop, State, and United States, 

 1995-96, 1996-97, and Forecasted January 1, 1998 1/ 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : Utilized Production : Utilized Production 

 : Boxes : Ton Equivalent 

 Crop and State :-----------------------------------------------------------

 : 1995-96 : 1996-97 : 1997-98 : 1995-96 : 1996-97 : 1997-98 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : ------ 1,000 Boxes 2/ ----- ------- 1,000 Tons ------- 

Oranges : 

 Early Mid & : 

 Navel 3/ : 

 AZ : 700 400 450 27 15 17 

 CA : 38,000 40,000 44,000 1,426 1,500 1,650 

 FL : 121,200 134,200 146,000 5,454 6,039 6,570 

 TX : 830 1,300 1,400 35 55 60 

 US : 160,730 175,900 191,850 6,942 7,609 8,297 

 Valencia : 

 AZ : 950 600 550 36 23 21 

 CA : 20,000 28,000 30,000 750 1,050 1,125 

 FL : 82,100 92,000 108,000 3,695 4,140 4,860 

 TX : 110 120 150 4 5 6 

 US : 103,160 120,720 138,700 4,485 5,218 6,012 

 All : 

 AZ : 1,650 1,000 1,000 63 38 38 

 CA : 58,000 68,000 74,000 2,176 2,550 2,775 

 FL : 203,300 226,200 254,000 9,149 10,179 11,430 

 TX : 940 1,420 1,550 39 60 66 

 US : 263,890 296,620 330,550 11,427 12,827 14,309 

Temples : 

 FL : 2,150 2,400 2,300 97 108 104 

Grapefruit : 

 White Seedless : 

 FL 4/ : 23,200 23,500 23,000 986 999 978 

 Colored Seedless : 

 FL 4/ : 28,100 31,400 28,500 1,194 1,334 1,211 

 Other : 

 FL : 1,050 900 500 45 38 21 

 All : 

 AZ : 1,200 900 800 40 30 27 

 CA : 8,100 8,200 9,000 271 275 302 

 FL 4/ : 52,350 55,800 52,000 2,225 2,371 2,210 

 TX : 4,550 5,300 5,000 182 212 200 

 US : 66,200 70,200 66,800 2,718 2,888 2,739 

Tangerines : 

 AZ : 1,000 550 500 38 21 19 

 CA : 2,600 2,600 2,400 98 98 90 

 FL : 4,500 6,300 5,500 213 299 261 

 US : 8,100 9,450 8,400 349 418 370 

Lemons : 

 AZ : 5,100 2,600 2,600 194 99 99 

 CA : 21,000 20,000 22,000 798 760 836 

 US : 26,100 22,600 24,600 992 859 935 

Tangelos : 

 FL : 2,450 3,950 3,300 110 178 149 

K-Early Citrus : 

 FL : 160 150 100 7 7 5 

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

See footnotes on next page. 
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 12 NASS, USDA

 

 Citrus Fruit Footnotes 

1/ The crop year begins with the bloom of the first year shown and ends with 

 the completion of harvest the following year. 

2/ Net lbs. per box: oranges-AZ & CA-75, FL-90, TX-85; grapefruit-AZ & CA-67,

 FL-85, TX-80; lemons-76; tangelos, K-Early Citrus & Temples-90; 

 tangerines-AZ & CA-75, FL-95. 

3/ Navel and miscellaneous varieties in AZ and CA. Early (including Navel) and

 midseason varieties in FL and TX. Small quantities of tangerines in TX. 

4/ Excludes economic abandonment in 1995-96 of 3,000,000 boxes of Colored 

 Seedless; in 1996-97 of 3,000,000 boxes of White Seedless and 3,000,000 

 boxes of Colored Seedless. 
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 13 NASS, USDA

Hay: Stocks on Farms, December 1 and May 1, by State

and United States, 1995-97

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : December 1 : May 1

 State :-----------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1995 : 1996 1/ : 1997 : 1996 : 1997 1/ : 1998

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 : 1,000 Tons

 :

AL : 1,270 1,489 1,489 106 193

AZ : 265 82 167 28 28

AR : 1,910 1,850 2,000 141 231

CA : 2,250 2,594 1,624 361 160

CO : 2,390 1,945 1,975 636 203

CT : 78 97 57 11 13

DE : 9 11 7 1 6

FL : 397 437 400 29 31

GA : 1,050 924 1,045 150 302

ID : 2,794 2,285 2,986 660 286

IL : 1,979 1,350 1,400 432 304

IN : 1,584 1,131 1,213 216 162

IA : 4,079 3,500 3,360 736 715

KS : 4,590 5,600 5,600 787 841

KY : 4,806 4,334 4,352 492 627

LA : 513 502 541 15 126

ME : 272 202 166 126 57

MD : 265 433 360 55 84

MA : 115 95 92 17 13

MI : 3,166 2,514 2,000 754 460

MN : 4,374 4,018 3,700 694 540

MS : 1,368 1,620 1,522 50 160

MO : 6,000 6,159 6,115 955 830

MT : 4,931 4,674 5,042 858 492

NE : 4,813 5,063 4,360 1,325 968

NV : 750 752 711 166 60

NH : 82 70 42 16 12

NJ : 131 92 138 48 27

NM : 600 590 540 40 80

NY : 2,069 2,254 1,956 552 555

NC : 900 970 990 116 115

ND : 5,044 4,777 3,841 1,019 675

OH : 2,421 2,074 2,400 323 173

OK : 3,600 4,500 4,400 500 800

OR : 2,310 2,108 1,653 264 97

PA : 2,513 2,613 2,100 617 600

RI : 6 7 8 1 1

SC : 468 308 390 72 101

SD : 8,960 8,530 8,180 3,077 1,570

TN : 3,136 3,049 3,184 235 419

TX : 7,322 6,252 8,632 570 1,400

UT : 1,481 1,327 1,630 349 302

VT : 391 330 267 100 86

VA : 2,185 2,698 1,567 257 630

WA : 1,410 1,162 1,373 426 283

WV : 855 895 813 53 117

WI : 4,900 4,600 4,000 1,569 1,150

WY : 2,636 1,965 2,129 734 287

 :

US : 109,438 104,832 102,517 20,739 17,372

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1/ Revised.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 14 NASS, USDA

December Weather Summary: The Nation's weather patterns locked into a classic

 El Niño signature, featuring a split jet stream and

an active storm track across the South. Monthly temperatures ranged from 5 to

15 degrees F above normal across the North Central States, but as much as 

3 degrees F below normal in the Southeast. Heavy snow helped to suppress

temperatures in the southern Rockies and southern Plains, where departures

ranged from -2 to -9 degrees F. December-record rainfall drenched central and

northeastern Florida, while near-record totals soaked parts of Texas. Snow

occasionally fell into the Deep South. Farther north, however, the northern

Plains' dry spell stretched to 3 months and the Northwest's drying trend

persisted for a second consecutive month. California escaped any serious

effects from El Niño-related storminess, although precipitation averaged above

normal across southern and central-coastal sections.

In Texas, Waco's rainfall totaled 7.98 inches on December 20, breaking their 

24-hour record of 7.18 inches set on May 11-12, 1953. On December 23-24, the

next storm to emerge from the Southwest dumped 11.6 inches of snow on Dodge

City, KS, eclipsing their 24-hour December record (11.4 inches) that had stood

since 1923. A few days later, Tampa, FL netted 4.76 inches of rain on December

26-27, shattering their 24-hour December record.

Tampa received 1 inch or more of rain on 7 days during December (normal for an

entire year is 13 days) en route to a record-setting monthly total of 15.57

inches (724% of normal). With 67.71 inches for the year, Tampa had their

third-wettest year behind 1959 (76.57 inches) and 1957 (70.43 inches). Miami

Beach's annual rainfall of 71.01 inches represented their highest total since

71.10 inches fell in 1959. Elsewhere in Florida, a few other December rainfall

records were demolished by mid-month, with few breaks from the wetness

thereafter:

Location Total (Inches) Normal Former Record/Year

Tampa 15.57 2.15 7.36 in 1907

Orlando 12.63 2.15 5.67 in 1940

Jacksonville 9.77 2.72 7.76 in 1885

December rainfall records were approached in the Texas cities of Waco 

(9.81 inches, second to an 11.76-inch total in 1913) and Dallas-Ft. Worth 

(6.93 inches, third behind 8.75 inches in 1991 and 6.99 inches in 1971). For

the third time this decade, annual rainfall placed among the ten highest values

on record in Dallas Ft. Worth (45.02 inches, 10th all-time) and Austin, TX

(47.06 inches, 8th). Victoria, TX (67.11 inches, 179% of normal) posted their

wettest year on record, smashing the 1919 record of 59.57 inches. Farther east,

Shreveport, LA measured 69.21 inches during 1997, second only to an 81.99-inch

total in 1991.

Some areas that did not receive excessive precipitation still had to endure a

lack of sunshine. St. Louis, MO recorded less than 80 hours of sunshine during

the month (27% of possible). In Iowa, Des Moines' 11-day cloudy streak

(December 1-11) was their longest since a 12-day stretch in December 1991 -

January 1992. Albuquerque, NM had no sunshine on 4 consecutive days from

December 20-23, their longest such stretch since December 1982.

The snow that fell in Albuquerque during that period boosted the monthly total

to 8.8 inches, their fourth-highest on record and greatest December amount since

1959. By December 25, snow depths stood at 3 to 4 feet across parts of the

Southwest. Hannagan Meadow, AZ reported 48 inches on the ground, while

Cloudcroft, NM had 33 inches. With a 5-inch cover, Amarillo, TX reported its

greatest December 25 snow depth since 1939. Earlier in the month, a rare Deep

South snowstorm dumped 4.8 inches of snow (on December 14) on Jackson, MS and

left up to 8 inches nearby.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 15 NASS, USDA

The procession of storms northeastward from the Southwest contributed to

above-normal snowfall across portions of the central Plains and Midwest. 

Monthly totals reached 14.9 inches in Dodge City, KS, 10.9 inches in Kansas

City, MO, and 15.2 inches in Moline, IL. The storm's also helped to draw

cold--but not Arctic--air deep into the South. On December 13-14 and again

during the last week of the month, temperatures dipped to near-freezing levels

as far south as Texas' Lower Rio Grande Valley. On December 26, Alamosa, CO

notched a daily-record low of -23 degrees F.

Snow returned to much of the East on December 29-31 as a major storm moved

southeastward into Tennessee before re-developing along the East Coast and

turning northward. More than 2 feet buried isolated locations in the central

and northern Appalachians, and 5.2 inches fell as far south as Greensboro, NC. 

In New York, the late-month storm and subsequent lake-effect precipitation

raised monthly snowfall to 34.3 inches in Binghamton and 47.8 inches in

Syracuse. Just a week earlier (December 22-23), another storm had dumped more

than 20 inches on parts on New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

Farther west, however, little precipitation accompanied the unusually mild

weather across the North Central States. Monthly precipitation of 0.34 inches

in Houghton Lake, MI and a trace in Helena, MT were the lowest on record during

December. When 0.01 inches fell in Glasgow, MT on December 27, a 34-day dry

spell ended, their longest such streak since 1973. For the first time on

record, Glasgow escaped December with no sub-zero temperatures, posting an

average monthly temperature that was 10.9 degrees F above normal. In North

Dakota, Grand Forks' average temperature of 23.7 degrees F tied their December

record set in 1959.

In southern California, early-month storminess yielded to only sporadic showers. 

The month's most impressive series of storms struck the region between December

4 and 9. The heaviest rain fell in Ventura County, northwest of Los Angeles,

where December 6 totals reached 9.09 inches at Matilija Canyon and 9.45 inches

on Old Man Mountain. Farther north, however, monthly rainfall in Eugene, OR was

only 2.23 inches, their second-lowest December value on record after a 1.24-inch

total in 1976.

General Crop Comments: A split jet stream, induced by El Nino, allowed farmers

 to finish fall crop harvest and tillage operations under

mostly dry conditions across the northern United States. However, the weather

pattern caused continued wetness during December across the Southern States and

delayed harvest and fall planting activities. At the end of the month, soil

moisture supplies in the major corn and soybean-producing States were mostly

adequate. There was concern, though, about the lack of snow cover on winter

grains and alfalfa fields. Grain movement in the Corn Belt was slowed by low

prices. Some elevators in Nebraska continued to pile grain outside in emergency

storage. Above-normal temperatures in the northern Plains benefited livestock

producers after the especially harsh winter last year. Farmers in the northern

and Middle Atlantic States were able to finish fall harvest, but hay supplies

were short in several areas.

Continued rainfall and below-normal temperatures from California to Florida

delayed fall crop harvest, and a few fields remained unharvested at month’s end. 

However, the majority of the soybean, cotton, and sorghum acreages were

harvested by the end of December. Snow in southeast Colorado further hindered

sorghum harvest that was initially delayed by a late October blizzard. A small

amount of Kansas sorghum acreage was not yet harvested at the end of December

due to above-normal precipitation. Tobacco curing in Kentucky and Ohio was

hampered by slow drying conditions later in the month. Record wetness in

Florida hampered citrus and vegetable harvests.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 16 NASS, USDA

The very mild weather across the northern United States promoted growth and

development of the 1998 winter wheat crop but also melted snow cover on emerged

fields. In Kansas, the crop was rated in mostly good to excellent condition at

the end of December with little wind and freeze damage occurring during the

month. Statewide, snowfall and rain combined with moderate temperatures

resulted in on again/off again snow cover. To the north of Kansas, dry weather

during the last 3 months in the High Plains has left fields with no snow cover

and subject to damage by wind and freezing temperatures. In the Northwest, snow

cover was absent in eastern Washington, while good snow cover in northern Idaho

and mild conditions in the southern part of the State benefited winter wheat. 

Mild temperatures accompanied by snow and rain benefited fields in the southern

Plains. In the Southeast, planting and crop growth were delayed by late fall

crop harvests and above-normal precipitation.

Cotton: Upland cotton planted acreage is estimated at 13.6 million acres, down

 6 percent from 1996 but harvested acreage at 13.0 million acres, is 

3 percent more than last year because of the large abandonment in Texas in 1996. 

Producers planted 252,000 acres of American-Pima cotton in 1997, down 2 percent

from 1996, and harvested acreage is also down 2 percent, at 251,000 acres.

Texas’ harvest lagged behind the 5-year average until early November, and by

late that month, harvest was 7 points ahead of the average pace of 77 percent. 

Texas’ irrigated fields showed good progress this season, and unusual high

amounts of rainfall in May caused the dryland acreage to develop ahead of the

average pace. In the Plains, heavy rain and hail during June damaged fields and

forced producers to replant, or plant alternative crops. In October, heavy

rains during the season slowed harvest in the Upper Coast and the later crop

showed quality damage. Objective yield survey data indicated the fourth highest

boll weights since 1988. Planted acres in Texas is estimated at 5.50 million,

down 4 percent from 1996, but harvested acreage is up 26 percent, at 

5.15 million acres.

The Delta States’ (Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, and Tennessee)

plantings lagged behind average due to wet soils and because other row crops

were being planted, but seedings were completed in early June. Precipitation

was above normal and cooler than normal temperatures prevailed during the early

season, slowing crop development. October’s beneficial temperatures and open

weather allowed the bolls to finish opening, and yields were higher than had

been expected earlier in the season. Harvest exceeded the 5-year average pace

in Louisiana and Mississippi, and in early November Louisiana had 98 percent of

the crop harvested, 6 points ahead of the 5-year average. Mississippi producers

were 85 percent complete, 1 point above average. Harvest in the other States in

this region was about three-fourths finished, slightly behind their normal pace. 

Boll weights ranked eighth in Arkansas, ninth in Louisiana, and seventh in

Mississippi compared to the previous 10 years. Planted and harvested acreage in

this region was down 13 percent from 1996, at 3.45 million acres and 

3.40 million acres respectively.

Arizona’s planted and harvested acres increased by 2 percent from 1996, but

California producers decreased planted and harvested acreage by 12 percent. 

Early planting approval was again granted in Arizona to lessen effects of

whitefly, and the crop also benefitted from good weather. California’s seeding

pace was well ahead of average most of the season as warm, dry weather

prevailed. Eighty-nine percent of Arizona's crop was in good to excellent

condition and 90 percent of bolls were opening in early September, which

equalled the 5-year average. Cotton development in California remained ahead of

average, with 80 percent of the crop showing open bolls compared to an average

of 59 percent, in early September. Harvest was slightly behind the 5-year

average in Arizona, but slightly ahead of the normal pace for California

producers. California’s boll weights were second highest since 1988.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 17 NASS, USDA

In the Southeastern States (Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South

Carolina), cotton planted acreage was 2 percent more than in 1996, at 2.94

million acres. The planting pace was behind average early in the season, but a

dry period in mid-May allowed producers to exceed the average pace. Early June

storms in Georgia and Alabama replenished soil moisture and improved crop

condition. Many fields in Georgia and Alabama were replanted due to seedling

disease, cool temperatures causing poor stands, and soil crusting from the heavy

rains. Alabama was subject to unusual heavy rainfall during the season, as well

as cool temperatures. In addition, Hurricane Danny entered into the

southwestern portion of the State in late July with torrential rains. All of

these States were behind the average harvest progress during the season.

American-Pima production is forecast at 537,000 bales, up 2 percent from 1996's

output, and up 4,000 bales from the December forecast. Yield is indicated at

1,027 pounds per harvested acre, up 36 pounds from last year. The California

crop experienced virtually ideal growing conditions in June and July, with

development nearly two weeks ahead of normal. However, lygus bug pressure

eventually caused significant square shedding on some of the acreage in the San

Joaquin Valley. The Texas crop also progressed well with irrigation and hot

temperatures. California producers increased their seedings 12 percent from the

previous year, to 185,000 acres, but Arizona’s acreage decreased 48 percent from

1996 to 22,000 acres. Texas and New Mexico producers also reduced their

plantings by 14 percent and 7 percent, respectively.

All cotton ginnings totaled 17,761,050 running bales prior to January 1,

compared with 17,680,900 running bales ginned to the same date last year and

17,011,400 running bales in 1995.

Winter Potatoes: Production of winter potatoes in 1998 is forecast at 

 2.94 million cwt. This is down 6 percent from 1997 and 

10 percent below 1996. Area for harvest is estimated at 15,500 acres, up 

1 percent from a year ago and 7 percent above two years ago. The average yield

is projected at 190 cwt per acre, 13 cwt lower than last year.

Florida potato planting is nearly completed. Some acreage was replanted because

of wet soils. Harvest is expected in late January or early February. 

California’s acreage is up, but yields are expected to be down from last year.

Spring Potatoes, 1997 Revised: Production of spring potatoes in 1997 totaled

 21.7 million cwt, down 3 percent from a year

earlier but 8 percent above 1995's output. Harvested area totaled 86,200 acres,

down 4 percent from 1996, but the average yield of 252 cwt per acre gained 3 cwt

from last year. Final 1997 estimates were higher than the May 1 forecast in

California and North Carolina but lower in the Hastings area of Florida.

Papayas: December fresh papaya production from Hawaii is estimated at 

 3.04 million pounds, 1 percent lower than November and 3 percent lower

than December 1996. Short days, cool temperatures, and cloudy skies

characterized December weather conditions. Papaya ringspot virus continued to

depress yields and shorten the life of infected fields.

Area devoted to papaya production is estimated at 3,515 acres, 13 percent higher

than November and 2 percent more than last December. Harvested area, at 

1,715 acres, was 11 percent lower than November but 17 percent higher than a

year ago.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 18 NASS, USDA

Grapefruit: The 1997-98 U.S. grapefruit crop is forecast at 2.74 million tons,

 the same as the December 1 forecast but down 5 percent from 1997. 

The January 1 Florida all grapefruit crop is forecast at 52.0 million boxes

(2.21 million tons), unchanged from the previous forecast but 7 percent less

than last season’s record utilization. Forecasted utilization for both the

white seedless varieties, at 23.0 million boxes, and the colored seedless

varieties, at 28.5 million boxes, are unchanged. These forecasts are 2 percent

and 9 percent lower, respectively, than the final recorded utilization last

season. The seedy grapefruit crop is expected to total 500,000 boxes 

(21,000 tons), unchanged from December and the smallest amount of this variety

ever recorded.

The forecasts are based on objective fruit count and measurement surveys in

relation to the harvest patterns and utilization of the past six seasons. All

citrus forecasts project certified utilization and include a preseason

allocation of less than two percent for unrecorded usage. Certifications include

only fruit actually shipped in fresh pack or recorded at a processing plant. 

California’s January 1 forecast of grapefruit production is unchanged at 

9.00 million boxes (302,000 tons) but 10 percent more than last year. Weather

conditions to date have been good. Picking has begun in the desert area with

good size and quality. Production in Texas is expected at 5.00 million boxes

(200,000 tons), unchanged from the previous forecast but down 6 percent from the

1996-97 season. Arizona’s 1997-98 production of grapefruit is forecast at

800,000 boxes (27,000 tons), unchanged from the initial forecast but 11 percent

fewer boxes than the 1996-97 crop.

Lemons: The 1997-98 U.S. lemon crop is forecast at 935,000 tons, unchanged from

 the October forecast and 9 percent more than last year. California

production remains unchanged at 22.0 million boxes (836,000 tons), 10 percent

more than last year. In the Central Valley area, export grades have been good

to excellent, while domestic grades have been fair to good. In the South Coast

area, grades remain fair to good. Defects include wind scar, tip injuries, and

flatsides. The Arizona lemon crop is forecast at 2.60 million boxes 

(99,000 tons), the same as the initial forecast in October and the same as last

year. Quality has been good for the most part, some fair. Defects include

sunburn and windscar.

Tangelos: The 1997-98 Florida tangelo forecast continues at 3.30 million boxes

 (149,000 tons), 16 percent less than last season’s crop, which was

the largest crop in nine seasons. Harvest is slightly behind last year at the

same time with 1.64 million boxes moved through the end of December.

Tangerines: The 1997-98 U.S. tangerine production forecast remains at 

 370,000 tons, down 11 percent from last year’s crop. Florida’s

tangerine forecast is 5.50 million boxes (261,000 tons), 13 percent less than

the previous season’s crop. Fruit size is larger on average than last year and

less droppage is expected. However, fewer trees and fewer fruit per tree have

caused the decline in total production. Through December, just over three

million boxes have been utilized.

California tangerine production is 2.40 million boxes (90,000 tons), the same

level as forecast in October, but 8 percent lower than the previous season. 

Quality, color, and flavor are good in the majority of lots. Grades are good to

fair. Grade defects include scar, sunburn, and coarse texture. Arizona’s

tangerine forecast, at 500,000 boxes (19,000 tons), remains unchanged from

October and is down 9 percent from the 1996-97 season.

Temples: Florida’s 1997-98 Temple production forecast remains at 2.30 million

 boxes (104,000 tons), down 4 percent from last year. Fruit sizes are

about average, but larger than they were a year ago. Fruit loss from drop is at

a seasonal low, but number of fruit is down, resulting in decreased overall

production. Harvesting is just underway.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 19 NASS, USDA

K-Early Citrus: Production of K-Early Citrus Fruit in Florida is expected to

 total 100,000 boxes (4,500 tons), unchanged from the December 1

forecast and 33 percent lower than last season. Fewer than 50,000 boxes have

been recorded. Utilization of the remainder of the crop depends on fruit

condition and processing use.

Florida Citrus: Last month was one of the wettest Decembers on record. Some

 counties recorded precipitation levels well above all-time

records for the month. Most of the growers and caretakers were able to handle

the excessive water with very few major problems. Extra ditching and plowing

were necessary to help move standing water. Most groves and trees are in very

good condition with very little new growth showing. Early and midseason fruit

is being harvested at a rapid pace, weather permitting. All fresh fruit packing

houses and processing plants were working long hours during December to move

this season's large crop. Caretakers have been dirt banking young trees and

placing heaters for cold protection. There was very little spraying or

fertilization done during the month. Harvest of early and midseason oranges

through December was almost 62 million boxes, over three million boxes more than 

last year at the same time. Utilization of Navel oranges was just more than

five million boxes, slightly ahead of last year’s pace.

Texas Citrus: Harvest activity moved ahead without much delay during December

 with good sizes and quality reported. Irrigation resumed in many

groves as minimal precipitation was recorded in the Rio Grande Valley last

month. Demand increased for both oranges and grapefruit.

California Citrus: Citrus crops suffered little damage from cold nighttime

 temperatures in the San Joaquin Valley. Picking of

grapefruit began in the desert area with size and quality good. Harvest of

lemons was active in the San Joaquin Valley and South Coast areas. Quality has

been good. Navel orange harvest continued with excellent quality and large

sizes. Approximately one-fourth of the crop had been picked by January 1. The

Valencia orange crop continues to mature, with picking to begin in the desert

area by mid-February. Tangerine harvest was active through December, with a

good quality crop reported.

California Fruits and Nuts: Pruning, preplant preparation, and field fumigation

 activities were conducted during December as

weather permitted. Kiwifruit and table grape harvests concluded, but avocado

picking continued. Growers were digging bare root nursery stock and strawberry

plants. Cold nighttime temperatures were beneficial to dormant tree and vine

crops.

Hay Stocks on Farm: Stocks of all hay on farms December 1, 1997 totaled 

 103 million tons, 2 percent below the stocks on farms

December 1, 1996. Stock decreases occurred in 26 of the 48 contiguous States,

mainly in the upper mid-west States, New England States, mid Atlantic States,

and California, Nevada, and Oregon in the west. The largest stock increases

occurred in the Mountain States, eastern cornbelt States, and most of the

Southern States.
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 20 NASS, USDA

Report Features

The next "Crop Production" report will be released at 8:30 a.m. ET on

February 11, 1998.

Listed below are the commodity specialists in the Crops Branch of the National

Agricultural Statistics Service to contact for additional information.

C. Ray Halley, Chief (202) 720-2127

 Field Crops Section

 Bill Dowdy, Head (202) 720-3843

 Kevin Barnes - Soybeans, Minor Oilseeds (202) 720-7369

 Rhonda Brandt- Corn (202) 720-7621

 Doug Hartwig - Hay (202) 720-8843

 Rhonda Brandt - Oats, Sugar Crops, Weekly Crop Weather (202) 720-7621

 Roger Latham - Cotton, Cotton Ginnings (202) 720-5944

 Jerry Ramirez - Barley, Sorghum (202) 690-3234

 Barbara Rater - Peanuts, Rice (202) 720-7688

 Vaughn Siegenthaler - Wheat, Rye (202) 720-8068

 

 Fruit, Vegetable & Special Crops Section

 Vince Matthews, Head (202) 720-3843

 Arvin Budge - Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes (202) 720-4285

 Dave DeWalt - Citrus, Tropical Fruits (202) 720-5412

 Howard Hill - Cherries, Berries, Prunes, Plums, 

 Cranberries, Grapes, Maple Syrup (202) 720-7235

 Dave Mueller - Fresh and Processing Vegetables, Onions (202) 720-2157

 Dave Ranek - Nuts, Floriculture (202) 720-4215

 Linda Simpson - Noncitrus Fruits, Mint, Dry Beans & Peas,

 Mushrooms, Hops (202) 690-0270

 Debbie Williams - Apples, Strawberries, Tobacco (202) 720-4288
Crop Production Agricultural Statistics Board

January 1998 21 NASS, USDA

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in its programs on the basis of race,

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disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (braille, large print, audiotape,

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To file a complaint, write the Secretary of Agriculture, USDA, Washington, D.C., 20250, or call 1-800-245-6340

 (voice) or 202-720-1127 (TDD). USDA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

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For your convenience, there are several ways to obtain NASS reports, data

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USDA Announces Agricultural Outlook Forum ‘98

February 23 and 24, 1998

Washington, D.C.

Presented by the U.S. Department of Agriculture

Survey the New Frontiers.

Survey the frontiers of agriculture at USDA’s seventy-fourth

outlook forum. Catch the latest commodity prospects for 1998

and beyond and receive new long-term projections to the year

2007. Hear noted experts and farm leaders tackle front line

issues: managing risk, selling bio-engineered products,

ensuring food safety, marketing organic foods, honing export

strategies, and more.

Act Now To Attend. For program and registration details check the Forum home page, call

(202) 720-3050, or dial (202) 694-5700 from your fax machine handset and retrieve document

66666. Call (202) 401-9421 to register.

Ag Forum home page: http://www.usda.gov/oce/waob/agforum.htm

e-mail: agforum@oce.usda.gov

Agricultural

Outlook

Forum 98