Crop Production 

ISSN: 1936-3737

Released August 11, 2011, by the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS), Agricultural Statistics Board, United States Department of 

Agriculture (USDA).

Planted Acreage Update

Survey respondents who reported acreage as not yet planted in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, and 

South Dakota during the survey conducted in preparation for the Acreage report, released June 30, 2011 

were re-contacted in July to determine how many of those acres were planted or still intended to be 

planted. Acreage estimates in this report reflect this updated information. 

Corn Production Up 4 Percent from 2010

Soybean Production Down 8 Percent from 2010

Cotton Production Down 9 Percent from 2010

All Wheat Production Down 1 Percent from July Forecast

Corn production is forecast at 12.9 billion bushels, up 4 percent from 2010. If realized, this will be the third largest 

production total on record for the United States. Based on conditions as of August 1, yields are expected to average 

153.0 bushels per acre, up 0.2 bushel from 2010, and the fourth highest yield on record. Acreage planted for all purposes 

is estimated at 92.3 million acres, unchanged from the June estimate. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 84.4 million 

acres, down less than 1 percent from June but up 4 percent from 2010.

Soybean production is forecast at 3.06 billion bushels, down 8 percent from last year. Based on August 1 conditions, 

yields are expected to average 41.4 bushels per acre, down 2.1 bushels from last year. Area for harvest in the United 

States is forecast at 73.8 million acres, down less than 1 percent from June and down 4 percent from 2010. Planted area 

for the Nation is estimated at 75.0 million acres, down fractionally from June.

All cotton production is forecast at 16.6 million 480-pound bales, down 9 percent from last year’s 18.1 million bales. 

Yield is expected to average 822 pounds per harvested acre, up 10 pounds from last year. Upland cotton production is 

forecast at 15.8 million 480-pound bales, down 10 percent from 2010. American Pima production is forecast at 

737,200 bales, up 46 percent from last year. Producers expect to harvest 9.67 million acres of all cotton, down 10 percent 

from 2010. This harvested total includes 9.38 million acres of Upland cotton and 287,500 acres of Pima cotton.

All wheat production, at 2.08 billion bushels, is down 1 percent from the July forecast and down 6 percent from 2010. 

Based on August 1 conditions, the United States yield is forecast at 45.2 bushels per acre, up 0.6 bushel from last month 

but down 1.2 bushels from last year. 
2 Crop Production (August 2011)

Winter wheat production is forecast at 1.50 billion bushels, up slightly from last month and up 1 percent from 2010. The 

United States yield is forecast at 46.3 bushels per acre, up 0.1 bushel from last month but down 0.5 bushel from last year. 

The area expected to be harvested for grain totals 32.3 million acres, unchanged from last month but up 2 percent from 

last year. 

Hard Red Winter, at 794 million bushels, is up slightly from a month ago. Soft Red Winter, at 452 million bushels, is 

down 1 percent from the previous forecast. White Winter is up 3 percent from last month and now totals 251 million 

bushels. Of this total, 11.8 million bushels are Hard White and 239.3 million bushels are Soft White.

Durum wheat production is forecast at 57.1 million bushels, down 10 percent from July and down 47 percent from 2010. 

The United States yield is forecast at 42.4 bushels per acre, up 3.7 bushels from last month but unchanged from last year. 

Expected area to be harvested for grain totals 1.35 million acres, down 18 percent from last month and down 47 percent 

from last year.

Other spring wheat production is forecast at 522 million bushels, down 5 percent from last month and down 15 percent 

from last year. The expected area to be harvested for grain totals 12.3 million acres, down 7 percent from last month and 

down 8 percent from last year. The United States yield is forecast at 42.5 bushels per acre, up 0.8 bushel from last month 

but down 3.6 bushels from 2010. Of the total production, 475 million bushels are Hard Red Spring Wheat, down 6 percent 

from last month and down 17 percent from last year.

This report was approved on August 11, 2011.

Acting Secretary of

Agriculture

Kathleen A. Merrigan

Agricultural Statistics Board

Chairperson

Hubert Hamer
Crop Production (August 2011) 3

Contents

Selected Crops Area Planted – States and United States: 2011 .............................................................................................. 6

Corn for Grain Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011........................................................................................................................................................................ 8

Corn Production — United States Chart................................................................................................................................. 9

Sorghum for Grain Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011...................................................................................................................................................... 9

Oat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011................... 10

Barley Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011.............. 10

Winter Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011...................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Durum Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011...................................................................................................................................................................... 12

Other Spring Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011.................................................................................................................................................... 12

Wheat Production by Class – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011............................................................. 12

Winter Wheat Heads per Square Foot – Selected States: 2007-2011 ................................................................................... 13

Alfalfa and Alfalfa Mixtures for Hay Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 

and Forecasted August 1, 2011............................................................................................................................................. 14

All Other Hay Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011...................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Soybeans for Beans Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011.................................................................................................................................................... 16

Soybean Production — United States Chart ......................................................................................................................... 17

Peanut Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011 ............. 17

Rice Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011................. 18

Rice Production by Class – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011 ................................................................ 18
4 Crop Production (August 2011)

Cotton Area Harvested, Yield, and Production by Type – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011 ......................................................................................................................................................................20

Cottonseed Production – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011 ....................................................................20

Dry Edible Bean Area Planted and Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011....................................................................................................................................................21

Dry Edible Bean Area Planted by Commercial Class – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011 ......................................................................................................................................................................22

Sugarbeet Area Harvested, Yield, and Production — States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011 ......................................................................................................................................................................24

Sugarcane for Sugar and Seed Area Harvested, Yield, and Production — States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011....................................................................................................................................................24

Tobacco Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011 ......................................................................................................................................................................24

Tobacco Area Harvested, Yield, and Production by Class and Type – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011....................................................................................................................................................25

Peach Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011............................................................26

Commercial Apple Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011.......................................27

Prune and Plum Production – States and 4-State Total: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011 ............................................27

Pear Production by Crop – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011................................................28

Coffee Production – Hawaii and Puerto Rico: 2009-2010 and 2010-2011...........................................................................28

Grape Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011 ...........................................................29

Hop Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011..................29

Olive Production by Variety – California: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011.................................................................29

Crop Area Planted and Harvested – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units) .........................................................30

Crop Yield and Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units)....................................................................31

Crop Area Planted and Harvested – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units)..............................................................32

Crop Yield and Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units).........................................................................33

Fruits and Nuts Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units)....................................................................34

Fruits and Nuts Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units).........................................................................35

Percent of Normal Precipitation............................................................................................................................................36

Departure from Normal Temperature....................................................................................................................................36
Crop Production (August 2011) 5

July Weather Summary......................................................................................................................................................... 37

July Agricultural Summary................................................................................................................................................... 37

Crop Comments.................................................................................................................................................................... 39

Statistical Methodology ........................................................................................................................................................ 48

Reliability of August 1 Crop Production Forecasts .............................................................................................................. 49

Information Contacts ............................................................................................................................................................ 50
6 Crop Production (August 2011)

Selected Crops Area Planted – States and United States: 2011

Acreage
Crop Production (August 2011) 7

Selected Crops Area Planted – States and United States: 2011

Acreage
8 Crop Production (August 2011)

Corn for Grain Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Crop Production 2011 Summary.
Crop Production (August 2011) 9

Sorghum for Grain Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011

Crop Production 2011 Summary.

Corn Production – United States
10 Crop Production (August 2011)

Oat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted

August 1, 2011

Small Grains 2011 Summary.

Barley Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted

August 1, 2011

Small Grains 2011 Summary.
Crop Production (August 2011) 11

Winter Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Small Grains 2011 Summary.
12 Crop Production (August 2011)

Durum Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Small Grains 2011 Summary.

Other Spring Wheat Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011

Small Grains 2011 Summary.

Wheat Production by Class – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Winter

Spring

Total
Crop Production (August 2011) 13

Winter Wheat Head Population

The National Agricultural Statistics Service is conducting objective yield surveys in 10 winter wheat estimating States 

during 2011. Randomly selected plots in winter wheat fields are visited monthly from May through harvest to obtain 

specific counts and measurements. Data in this table are actual field counts from this survey. The final number of heads is 

determined when the plots are harvested.

Winter Wheat Heads per Square Foot – Selected States: 2007-2011

Colorado

Illinois

Kansas

Missouri

Montana

Nebraska

Ohio

Oklahoma

Texas

Washington

Small Grains 2011 Summary.
14 Crop Production (August 2011)

Alfalfa and Alfalfa Mixtures for Hay Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 

2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Crop Production 2011 Summary.
Crop Production (August 2011) 15

All Other Hay Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Crop Production 2011 Summary.
16 Crop Production (August 2011)

Soybeans for Beans Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011

Crop Production 2011 Summary.
Crop Production (August 2011) 17

Peanut Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Soybean Production – United States
18 Crop Production (August 2011)

Rice Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Rice Production by Class – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011
Crop Production (August 2011) 19

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20 Crop Production (August 2011)

Cotton Area Harvested, Yield, and Production by Type – States and United States: 2010 and 

Forecasted August 1, 2011

Upland

American Pima

All 

Cottonseed Production – United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011
Crop Production (August 2011) 21

Dry Edible Bean Area Planted and Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 

and Forecasted August 1, 2011
22 Crop Production (August 2011)

Dry Edible Bean Area Planted by Commercial Class – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Large lima

Baby lima

Navy

Great northern

Small white

Pinto

Light red kidney

Dark red kidney

Pink

Small red

Cranberry
Crop Production (August 2011) 23

Dry Edible Bean Area Planted by Commercial Class – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Black

Blackeye

Small chickpeas (Garbanzo, 

smaller than 20/64 inches)

Large chickpeas (Garbanzo, 

larger than 20/64 inches)

All chickpeas (Garbanzo) 

Other

All dry edible beans
24 Crop Production (August 2011)

Sugarbeet Area Harvested, Yield, and Production — States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Sugarcane for Sugar and Seed Area Harvested, Yield, and Production — States and United States: 

2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Tobacco Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011
Crop Production (August 2011) 25

Tobacco Area Harvested, Yield, and Production by Class and Type – States and United States: 2010 

and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Class 1, Flue-cured (11-14)

Class 2, Fire-cured (21-23)

Class 3A, Light air-cured

Total light air-cured (31-32)

Class 3B, Dark air-cured (35-37)

Class 4, Cigar filler

Class 5, Cigar binder

Class 6, Cigar wrapper

Total cigar types (41-61)

All tobacco
26 Crop Production (August 2011)

Peach Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011
Crop Production (August 2011) 27

Commercial Apple Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Prune and Plum Production – States and 4-State Total: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011
28 Crop Production (August 2011)

Pear Production by Crop – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Bartlett

Other

All 

Noncitrus Fruits and Nuts

Coffee Production – Hawaii and Puerto Rico: 2009-2010 and 2010-2011
Crop Production (August 2011) 29

Grape Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011

Hop Area Harvested, Yield, and Production – States and United States: 2010 and Forecasted 

August 1, 2011

Olive Production by Variety – California: 2010 and Forecasted August 1, 2011
30 Crop Production (August 2011)

Crop Area Planted and Harvested – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units)

Grains and hay

Oilseeds

Cotton, tobacco, and sugar crops

Dry beans, peas, and lentils

Potatoes and miscellaneous
Crop Production (August 2011) 31

Crop Yield and Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units)

Grains and hay

Oilseeds

Cotton, tobacco, and sugar crops

Dry beans, peas, and lentils

Potatoes and miscellaneous
32 Crop Production (August 2011)

Crop Area Planted and Harvested – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units)

Grains and hay

Oilseeds

Cotton, tobacco, and sugar crops

Dry beans, peas, and lentils

Potatoes and miscellaneous
Crop Production (August 2011) 33

Crop Yield and Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units)

Grains and hay

Oilseeds

Cotton, tobacco, and sugar crops

Dry beans, peas, and lentils

Potatoes and miscellaneous
34 Crop Production (August 2011)

Fruits and Nuts Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Domestic Units)

Citrus 1

Noncitrus

Nuts and miscellaneous
Crop Production (August 2011) 35

Fruits and Nuts Production – United States: 2010 and 2011 (Metric Units)

Citrus 1

Noncitrus

Nuts and miscellaneous
36 Crop Production (August 2011)
Crop Production (August 2011) 37

July Weather Summary

Untimely heat expanded across the Midwest and Northeast, halting pasture growth and stressing reproductive corn and 

soybeans. Patchy dryness accompanied the heat, further reducing summer crop yield potential in some areas. In the 

Midwest, some of the most extensive short-term dryness stretched from southern Iowa into central Indiana.

Farther south, historically hot, dry conditions persisted in the south-central United States. Texas experienced its hottest, 

second-driest July on record, sharply aggravating the effects of a 10-month drought. The previous hottest month in Texas 

had occurred in July 1998, while the only drier July had been noted in 2000. It was also the hottest month on record in 

Oklahoma, breaking a record set in July 1954. By early August, more than 90 percent of the rangeland and pastures in 

both Oklahoma and Texas were rated in very poor to poor condition.

Drought also persisted in much of the Southeast, although locally heavy showers provided some relief in the central Gulf 

Coast States and the southern Atlantic region. Nevertheless, hot weather and soil moisture shortages continued to stress 

some Southeastern pastures and rain-fed summer crops.

Similarly, monsoon showers provided some limited relief to drought-affected areas in the Four Corners States. Elsewhere, 

mild, drier weather on the northern Plains promoted winter wheat maturation and spring wheat development, while cool, 

occasionally showery conditions lingered across the Far West.

July Agricultural Summary

July brought with it warmer than normal temperatures and limited rainfall to much of the United States, promoting rapid 

crop maturation while at the same time negatively impacting crop conditions and soil moisture levels. Most notably, 

monthly temperatures reached as many as 10 degrees above average in portions of the southern Great Plains where the 

majority of summer row crops and many small grains were stressed by triple-digit heat and little to no rainfall. 

Conversely, temperatures along the Pacific Coast were near to below normal. While portions of the northern Great Plains, 

Great Lakes region, and areas along the Gulf Coast accumulated 6 or more inches of rainfall during the month, coastal 

regions in California, as well as much of Texas received less than 25 percent of their normal precipitation.

Despite favorable weather conditions across much of the major corn-producing area during July, development of the 

Nation’s crop remained behind both last year and normal due to a sluggish planting pace earlier in the season. Six percent 

of the corn crop was at or beyond the silking stage by July 3, with progress evident in a limited number of States. 

Near-normal temperatures throughout the Corn Belt promoted silking progress of 27 percentage points or more in Illinois, 

Indiana, Iowa, and Missouri during the week ending July 17. By July 24, nine percent of the corn crop was at or beyond 

the dough stage, 7 percentage points behind last year and 3 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Continued warm 

temperatures and adequate soil moisture levels provided nearly ideal growing conditions for reproductive corn toward 

month’s end. As the month ended, 83 percent of the crop was silking, 18 percent was at or beyond the dough stage, and 

denting was underway in seven of the 18 major estimating States. Overall, 62 percent of the corn crop was reported in 

good to excellent condition on July 31, compared with 69 percent on July 3 and 71 percent from the same time last year.

By July 3, sorghum producers had planted 97 percent of this year’s crop, slightly ahead of the 5-year average. Heading 

was underway in a limited number of States. Hot temperatures in the southern Great Plains promoted a rapid crop 

maturity pace. With activity limited to Arkansas, Louisiana, and Texas, 24 percent of the sorghum crop was at or beyond 

the coloring stage by July 10, ahead of both last year and the 5-year average. Triple-digit temperatures had many sorghum 

producers in Kansas irrigating their fields as much as water supplies allowed, while some fields in the Edwards Plateau 

region of Texas were abandoned due to prolonged drought stress. As July ended, 42 percent of the sorghum crop was 

headed, 7 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Head development in Kansas was a week behind normal as hot 

temperatures and dry soils negatively impacted crop growth. Nationwide, coloring had advanced to 28 percent complete 

by July 31, with 23 percent of this year’s crop at or beyond the maturity stage. In Texas, scorching temperatures helped to 

quickly mature portions of the sorghum crop, leaving progress well ahead of both last year and normal, while at the same 

time causing a decline in crop conditions. Overall, 24 percent of the Nation’s crop was reported in good to excellent 

condition on July 31, compared with 36 percent on July 3 and 69 percent from the same time last year.
38 Crop Production (August 2011)

As the month began, heading of the Nation’s oat crop was behind both last year and normal due to delayed seeding and 

slow growth earlier in the season. With the exception of Texas, where heading was complete and harvest was nearly 

complete, head development was behind normal in all major estimating States. By July 24, ninety-five percent of the crop 

was at or beyond the heading stage, 4 percentage points behind both last year and the 5-year average. As July ended, oat 

producers had harvested 30 percent of this year’s crop, 18 percentage points behind last year and 14 percentage points 

behind the 5-year average. Overall, 55 percent of the oat crop was reported in good to excellent condition on July 31, 

compared with 59 percent on July 3 and 76 percent from the same time last year.

While seeding was complete in Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, and Washington, barley producers in North Dakota were still 

seeding their crop as July began. Nationally, 93 percent of the crop was emerged by July 3, with the most significant delay 

evident in North Dakota, where unfavorable weather conditions not only limited seeding progress but slowed crop 

development as well. By July 17, fifty-three percent of the barley crop was at or beyond the heading stage in Montana, 

38 percentage points behind normal. The latter half of July brought warmer temperatures to much of the Northern Tier, 

promoting increased crop development and maturation in many areas. By July 24, harvest was underway in the southwest 

region of Idaho. As the month ended, 92 percent of the barley crop was at or beyond the heading stage, 5 percentage 

points behind the 5-year average. Overall, 72 percent of the barley crop was reported in good to excellent condition on 

July 31, compared with 76 percent on July 3 and 86 percent from the same time last year.

Ninety-seven percent of the winter wheat crop was at or beyond the heading stage by July 3, on par with the 5-year 

average. Despite warmer temperatures promoting double-digit head development in Idaho, Montana, and Washington 

during the week ending July 3, progress remained well behind normal. Mostly sunny skies and dry weather allowed 

producers in several States ample time to harvest their crop. The harvest pace remained quick in many areas as July 

progressed, evidenced by producers in Indiana and Ohio harvesting 41 percent or more of their crop during the week 

ending July 10. While harvest was complete or nearly complete throughout much of the major winter wheat-producing 

region by July 24, harvest across the Northern Tier was just beginning. By the end of July, 81 percent of this year’s winter 

wheat crop was harvested, with progress in Montana 20 days behind normal due to delayed seeding and slow crop 

development earlier in the season. Overall, 36 percent of the winter wheat crop was reported in good to excellent 

condition when harvest surpassed the halfway point during the week ending July 3, 27 percentage points below the same 

time last year.

Spring wheat emergence was 94 percent complete by July 3, over 3 weeks behind normal. With cool, wet weather 

dominating much of the Northern Tier throughout much of the growing season, heading of the spring wheat crop in 

Minnesota, Montana, and the Dakotas was 32 percentage points or more behind normal by July 3. Warmer temperatures 

promoted double-digit head development in most estimating States during mid-July; however, overall progress remained 

well behind both last year and normal. As the month ended, heading had advanced to 90 percent complete, 8 percentage 

points behind the 5-year average. The most significant delay was evident in Montana, where heading was 21 percentage 

points behind normal. Overall, 70 percent of the spring wheat crop was reported in good to excellent condition on July 31, 

unchanged from ratings on July 3 but 12 percentage points below the same time last year.

As July began, heading of this year’s rice crop was slightly ahead of normal, with producers in California treating fields 

with herbicide to control weeds. Producers along the Upper Coast in Texas were preparing to harvest their fields. In 

Arkansas, favorable weather boosted crop conditions mid-month, while disease and insect presence negatively impacted 

some fields in Louisiana. As the month progressed, head development slowed and progress fell behind the 5-year average 

during the week ending July 24. By month’s end, 47 percent of the Nation’s rice crop was at or beyond the heading stage, 

18 percentage points behind last year and 2 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Overall, 64 percent of the rice 

crop was reported in good to excellent condition on July 31, compared with 60 percent on July 3 and 72 percent from the 

same time last year.

Soybean emergence was 96 percent complete by July 3, on par with the 5-year average. Blooming was underway but 

behind both last year and normal due to late planting and adverse growing conditions in many areas throughout the spring 

and early summer. Warm, sunny weather promoted a rapid blooming pace as July progressed, with double-digit 

development evident in most States during each week throughout the month. By July 24, sixteen percent of the soybean 

crop was setting pods, 16 percentage points behind last year and 11 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Despite 

rapid phenological development, July ended with blooming and pod set behind both last year and normal. Overall, 
Crop Production (August 2011) 39

60 percent of the soybean crop was reported in good to excellent condition on July 31, compared with 66 percent on 

July 3 and 66 percent from the same time last year.

As spotty rainfall helped to improve soil conditions in portions of the Southeast as July began, pegging of the peanut crop 

was 26 percent complete, well behind last year and 5 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Peg development 

became easier and crop conditions improved in many of the major peanut-producing areas as additional rainfall helped to 

loosen hard-packed soils during mid-to late-July. Toward month’s end, producers in Georgia were busy treating fields 

with fungicide to combat white mold. By July 31, pegging was 80 percent complete, 5 percentage points behind last year 

and 3 percentage points behind the 5-year average. Overall, 43 percent of the peanut crop was reported in good to 

excellent condition on July 31, compared with 30 percent on July 3 and 57 percent from the same time last year.

Although some sunflower fields remained wet in North Dakota, improved weather conditions during early July allowed 

producers in the State time to complete some fieldwork, and by July 10, ninety-seven percent of the Nation’s crop was 

planted, over one week behind normal.

Despite warm temperatures across much of the South, squaring of this year’s cotton crop was behind both last year and 

normal as July began. In Texas, poor seed germination and emergence of dryland fields in areas of the Plains left crop 

development behind normal. Bolls were setting on 20 percent of the Nation’s crop by July 10, five percentage points 

behind last year and 3 percentage points behind the 5-year average. As drought conditions worsened in areas of Texas, 

some dryland cotton fields in the Low Plains of Texas were abandoned, while some producers switched irrigation from 

corn to cotton to prepare the crop for boll set. Harvest was in full swing in the Coastal Bend and Lower Valley during the 

latter half of the month. By July 31, ninety percent of the cotton crop was at or beyond the squaring stage, 2 percentage 

points behind the 5-year average. Bolls were setting on 62 percent of this year’s acreage, on par with the average. Overall, 

30 percent of the cotton crop was reported in good to excellent condition on July 31, compared with 28 percent on July 3 

and 66 percent from the same time last year.

Crop Comments

Corn: The 2011 corn planted area for all purposes is estimated at 92.3 million acres, unchanged from the June estimate 

but up 5 percent from 2010. This represents the second highest planted acreage in the United States since 1944, behind 

only the 93.5 million acres planted in 2007. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 84.4 million acres, down less than 

1 percent from June but up 4 percent from 2010.

As of July 31, sixty-two percent of the corn acreage was rated in good to excellent condition in the 18 major producing 

States, compared with 71 percent rated in these two categories last year at this time. Thirteen of the 18 States reported less 

acreage rated in good to excellent condition compared with the same time last year, with the largest declines reported in 

Kansas and Texas due to an extended drought and above normal temperatures. 

Planting got off to a slow start in 2011 due to unfavorable planting conditions across much of the major corn-producing 

region during April. Midwestern fieldwork remained at a virtual standstill during the middle of April due to heavy rains 

and lowland flooding in the central and eastern Corn Belt. During the final week of April, excessive rainfall continued to 

fall from eastern Oklahoma into the Mid-South and the lower Ohio Valley delaying planting in many locations, but some 

progress was made in the western Corn Belt. By May 1, only 13 percent of the acreage had been planted, compared with 

66 percent planted at the same time last year and 40 percent for the 5-year average.

Planting delays continued during early May throughout much of the Midwest, but mostly dry weather prompted fieldwork 

in the western Corn Belt States of Iowa and Nebraska. Planting conditions improved during May in most of the major 

corn-producing areas of the country, but delays continued in the eastern Corn Belt. By May 29, eighty-six percent of the 

intended corn acreage had been seeded, compared with 97 percent complete at the same time last year and 95 percent for 

the 5-year average. Planting was virtually complete by June 12.

Warm weather and adequate soil moisture levels in many of the major corn-producing States provided nearly ideal 

growing conditions for emerging plants during the first half of June. By June 19, virtually all of the nation’s corn acreage 

had emerged. Wet weather continued across most of the Midwest during the second half of June, maintaining abundant 
40 Crop Production (August 2011)

moisture reserves for corn. On the other hand, extremely dry conditions and above normal temperatures in the central and 

southern Plains caused severe stress to both irrigated and non-irrigated corn acreage.

During the first half of July, warm weather, scattered showers, and abundant soil moisture promoted rapid crop 

development across the northern Plains and Midwest, while relentlessly hot, dry weather persisted in the south-central 

United States. As of July 17, thirty-five percent of the corn acreage was at or beyond the silking stage. The latter part of 

the month saw above normal temperatures reported across much of the major corn-producing regions.

Sorghum: Production is forecast at 241 million bushels, down 30 percent from last year. If realized, this will be the 

smallest production since 1956. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 4.39 million acres, down 4 percent from the 

previous forecast and down 9 percent from 2010. If realized, this will be the lowest harvested acreage level since 1936. 

Based on August 1 conditions, yield is forecast at 54.8 bushels per acre, down 17 bushels from last year.

As of July 31, the sorghum crop was 42 percent headed, 9 points behind last year and 7 points behind average. Prolonged 

drought conditions and high temperatures in July have negatively impacted the crop throughout the Southern Plains. 

Forty-four percent of the crop was rated in very poor to poor condition compared with only 5 percent at this time last year.

Oats: Production is forecast at 57.5 million bushels, 2 percent above the July 1 forecast but down 29 percent from 2010. 

If realized, this will be the lowest production on record, surpassing the previous record low set last year. Based on 

conditions as of August 1, the average yield for the United States is forecast at 61.6 bushels per acre, up 1.1 bushels from 

last month’s forecast but down 2.7 bushels from 2010. Growers expect to harvest 934,000 acres for grain or seed, 

unchanged from the previous forecast but down 26 percent from last year. If realized, this will be the smallest harvested 

area on record, also surpassing the previous record low set last year. 

Compared with July 1, yield increases are expected in much of the Northern Great Plains as warm, drier weather aided the 

crop whose development had been running significantly behind normal due to late planting and prolonged wet conditions. 

However, yield decreases are expected in many of the Northeast States due to hot, dry weather. 

Overall, the oat crop has developed behind the normal pace in most of the nine major producing States, mainly due to 

excessively wet conditions throughout much of the growing season. As of July 31, thirty percent of the oat acreage was 

harvested, 18 points behind last year’s pace and 14 points behind the 5-year average. Harvest progress was running 

considerably behind the 5-year average in all States except Texas, where harvest was completed slightly ahead of normal. 

On July 31, fifty-five percent of the oat crop in the nine major producing States was rated as good to excellent, compared 

with 76 percent last year.

Barley: Production for 2011 is forecast at 168 million bushels, down 3 percent from the July forecast and 7 percent from 

2010. Based on conditions as of August 1, the average yield for the United States is forecast at 70.4 bushels per acre, up 

0.8 bushel from July but 2.7 bushels below last year’s record high. Area harvested for grain or seed, at 2.39 million acres, 

is down 4 percent from the previous forecast and down 3 percent from 2010. If realized, this will be the smallest harvested 

area since 1881.

While seeding was complete in Idaho, Minnesota, Montana, and Washington, barley producers in North Dakota were still 

seeding their crop as July began. Consequently, the most significant phenological delays were evident in North Dakota, 

where unfavorable weather conditions not only limited seeding progress but slowed crop development as well. The latter 

half of July brought warmer temperatures to much of the Northern Tier, promoting increased crop development and 

maturation in many areas. As the month ended, harvest was underway in portions of the major barley-producing region, 

but well behind the normal pace. Overall, 72 percent of the barley crop was reported in good to excellent condition on 

July 31, compared with 76 percent on July 3 and 86 percent at the same time last year.

Winter wheat: Production is forecast at 1.50 billion bushels, up slightly from the July 1 forecast and up 1 percent from 

2010. Based on August 1 conditions, the United States yield is forecast at 46.3 bushels per acre, up 0.1 bushel from last 

month but down 0.5 bushel from last year. Expected grain area totals 32.3 million acres, up 2 percent from last year but 

unchanged from last month. Harvest in the 18 major producing States was 81 percent complete by July 31, two points 

behind last year and 5 points behind the 5-year average.
Crop Production (August 2011) 41

Harvest was virtually complete by the end of July in all major Hard Red Winter (HRW) States except Montana and South 

Dakota, where harvest was 32 and 4 points behind normal, respectively. As the crop lagged behind normal crop 

development much of the growing season due to cool, wet spring conditions, harvest was just getting underway in 

Montana by July 31. Yield decreases from last month in the HRW growing areas are expected in the Northern Great 

Plains.

As of July 31, harvest in the Soft Red Winter (SRW) growing area was complete in all major States except Michigan 

where progress was 10 points behind the 5-year average. Excellent growing conditions during the month in the Pacific 

Northwest States led to yield increases from the July forecast. However, harvest progress is running significantly behind 

normal in these States, ranging from 14 to 38 points behind the 5-year average.

Record high yields are expected in Arkansas, Michigan, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Tennessee, 

and Virginia.

Durum wheat: Production is forecast at 57.1 million bushels, down 10 percent from July and down 47 percent from 

2010. The United States yield is forecast at 42.4 bushels per acre, up 3.7 bushels from last month but unchanged from last 

year. Area harvested for grain is expected to total 1.35 million acres, down 18 percent from last month and down 

47 percent from last year.

Due to flooding and excessively wet conditions earlier in the season, crop development lags significantly behind normal 

in Montana and North Dakota, the two largest Durum-producing States. By July 31, heading in these States was 31 and 

38 percentage points behind the 5-year average, respectively. Yield forecasts are unchanged from last month in all major 

producing States except North Dakota who experienced warm and mostly dry conditions during the month to help 

accelerate crop maturity.

Other spring wheat: Production is forecast at 522 million bushels, down 5 percent from last month and down 15 percent 

from last year. The United States yield is forecast at 42.5 bushels per acre, up 0.8 bushel from last month but down 

3.6 bushels from 2010. The expected area to be harvested for grain totals 12.3 million acres, down 7 percent from last 

month and down 8 percent from last year.

Flooding and prolonged wet weather during the spring and early summer months slowed crop development in most States. 

In the six major producing States, 90 percent of the crop was at or beyond the heading stage of development by July 31, 

seven percentage points behind last year and 8 points behind the 5-year average. By month’s end, harvest had begun in 

only South Dakota and Oregon. Yield increases are expected in the Pacific Northwest and North Dakota, as seasonal 

temperatures during July advanced crop maturity.

Peanuts: Production is forecast at 3.61 billion pounds, down 13 percent from last year. Area for harvest is expected to 

total 1.12 million acres, down slightly from June and 11 percent lower than 2010. Yields are expected to average 

3,234 pounds per acre, down 77 pounds from last year.

Many peanut-producing States continue to suffer from extreme drought conditions. In Oklahoma and Texas, where the 

drought is most extreme, the peanut crop is mostly irrigated and was faring relatively well compared with other crops. 

However, many growers in Texas were abandoning acreage due to high irrigation costs, and growers in Oklahoma were 

concerned over the availability of water. While drought conditions had improved in Alabama and Florida, crop 

development was behind normal in Georgia, the largest peanut-producing State, and growers were aggressively irrigating 

in an attempt to offset the high temperatures. Despite high temperatures in Virginia and North Carolina, timely showers 

have resulted in good crop development. 

As of July 31, forty-three percent of the crop was rated in good to excellent condition, compared with 57 percent the same 

time last year. Pegging was at 80 percent, 5 percentage points behind last year and 3 points behind the 5-year average.

Rice: Production is forecast at 188 million cwt, down 23 percent from last year. Area for harvest is expected to total 

2.64 million acres, down slightly from the June Acreage report and 27 percent lower than 2010. The average United States 
42 Crop Production (August 2011)

yield is forecast at 7,114 pounds per acre, up 389 pounds from last year. 

Harvest was underway by the end of July in Louisiana and Texas. While Louisiana growers welcomed the rain at the end 

of the month, it delayed harvest in some areas. In Texas, the rice crop showed no major damage from the excessive heat 

and drought conditions that have plagued the State the last several months.

If realized, production in Arkansas, the largest rice-producing State, will be the lowest since 1997. In California, cooler

than normal temperatures delayed crop development, but the majority of the crop was rated in excellent condition at the 

end of July.

As of July 31, forty-seven percent of the United States acreage was headed, 18 percentage points behind last year and 

2 points behind the 5-year average. Sixty-four percent of the United States acreage was rated in good to excellent 

condition as of July 31, compared with 72 percent rated in these two categories a year earlier.

Soybeans: Planted area for the Nation is estimated at 75.0 million acres, down fractionally from June and down 3 percent 

from last year. Area for harvest is forecast at 73.8 million acres, down less than 1 percent from June and down 4 percent 

from 2010.

Soybean planting got off to a less than ideal start as severe flooding during April contributed to planting delays this 

spring. Heavy snowmelt created flooding along the upper and middle Mississippi River, while heavy rains induced 

flooding across the Ohio Valley and Mid-South. During the last week of April, historic flooding occurred in southeastern 

Missouri and neighboring areas as the flood crest moved south. Meanwhile, cool temperatures and rain combined to slow 

down planting progress across the northern Corn Belt. As of May 8, only 7 percent of intended soybean acreage was 

planted, 21 points behind last year’s pace and 10 points behind the 5-year average. Wet weather during the latter half of 

May led to continued delays in planting. As of May 29, fifty-one percent of the intended soybean acreage was planted, 

20 points behind normal and last year’s pace. Ohio was only at 7 percent planted, nearly 70 percentage points less than the 

5-year average for that date, and Indiana lagged 37 points behind the normal pace. However, significant progress was 

made during June, and 97 percent of the intended crop was planted by June 26, one point ahead of last year and the 

5-year average.

Emergence of the soybean crop began behind normal and last year’s pace, and remained behind the normal pace 

throughout May and nearly all of June. Soybeans reached 96 percent emerged by July 3, equal to the 5-year average but 

1 point behind last year’s pace. Blooming progress for soybeans followed a very similar pattern to emergence progress, 

remaining several points behind the 5-year average and last year’s pace throughout July. As of July 31, seventy-seven 

percent of the Nation’s crop was blooming, 4 points behind normal and 7 points behind last year. Thirty-four percent of 

the acreage was setting pods by July 31, eleven points behind normal and 16 points behind last year.

As of July 31, sixty percent of the United States soybean crop was rated in good to excellent condition, 6 percentage 

points less than the same week in 2010. Good to excellent ratings decreased across much of the soybean growing region 

during July, with declines in condition ratings of 13 points or more in Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, and Missouri due to hot, 

dry weather. Extremely dry conditions have also hampered yield expectations in Texas, where the yield forecast of 

20 bushels per acre will be the lowest since 1993, if realized. 

Canola: Area planted to canola in 2011 is estimated at 1.09 million acres, down 4 percent from June and down 25 percent 

from last year. Area for harvest is forecast at 1.07 million acres, also down 4 percent from June. In North Dakota, planted 

area is estimated at 890,000 acres, down 5 percent from June and down 30 percent from 2010. Harvested area in North 

Dakota is forecast at 880,000 acres, also down 5 percent from June.

Sunflower: Area planted to sunflower in 2011 is estimated at 1.76 million acres and harvested area is forecast at 

1.67 million acres. Planted area of oil type varieties, at 1.45 million acres, is down 6 percent from June and down 

1 percent from last year. Harvested area of oil type varieties is forecast at 1.39 million acres, also down 6 percent from 

June. Planted area of non-oil type varieties, at 306,000 acres, is down 3 percent from June and down 37 percent from 

2010. Harvested area of non-oil type varieties is forecast at 283,500 acres, down 3 percent from June.
Crop Production (August 2011) 43

In North Dakota, planted area of oil type varieties is estimated at 600,000 acres, down 90,000 acres from June. The 

forecast for harvested area of oil type varieties is also down 90,000 acres from June to 580,000 acres. Planted area of 

non-oil type varieties is estimated at 90,000 acres, down 10,000 acres from June. Harvested area of non-oil type varieties 

is also down 10,000 acres from June to 85,000 acres.

Cotton: Area planted to Upland cotton is estimated at 13.4 million acres, unchanged from June but up 25 percent from 

last year. Harvested area is expected to total 9.38 million acres, down 11 percent from 2010. American Pima planted area 

is estimated at 289,000 acres, unchanged from June but up 42 percent from last year. Expected harvested area, at 

287,500 acres, is up 43 percent from the previous year.

Drought throughout much of the Cotton Belt has taken its toll on this year’s crop. As of July 31, forty percent of the 

cotton acreage was rated in very poor to poor condition compared with 9 percent this time last year. Sixty-two percent of 

the crop had set bolls by July 31, six points behind last year but on par with the 5-year average.

The Southeastern growing region received widely scattered showers in late-July which provided some relief to the crop. 

However, the crop continued to be stressed by hot, dry conditions in areas that missed the precipitation. The crop 

progressed quickly in the Delta region due to beneficial rain and warm temperatures while dry, hot conditions persisted in 

West Texas.

Drought has shortened the growing season in South Texas which allowed ginning to get off to a fast start. By August 1, 

running bales ginned in Texas totaled 202,750, the highest August 1 total since 2000.

Dry beans: United States dry edible bean production is forecast at 20.5 million cwt for 2011, down 36 percent from last 

year. Planted area is forecast at 1.27 million acres, down 34 percent from the previous year. Harvested area is forecast at 

1.19 million acres, down 35 percent from the previous year’s harvested acreage. The average United States yield is 

forecast at 1,718 pounds per acre, a decrease of 8 pounds from 2010. 

Production is forecast to be lower than 2010 in 17 of the 18 estimating States, with the five largest producing States, 

North Dakota, Michigan, Nebraska, Minnesota, and Idaho, forecasting lower production than a year ago. 

In North Dakota, a cool, wet spring delayed planting, which was not completed until late-June, behind last year and the 

5-year average. Warm, dry weather throughout most of July aided crop development, while condition was rated mostly 

good to excellent. Dry beans were planted in Michigan during the first two weeks of June. Very few areas experienced 

rain delays.

Several Montana growers reported planting delays because of too much moisture. Precipitation in the dry bean producing 

areas ranged from 1 inch to almost 7 inches above normal. In Idaho, spring planting was delayed by cool, wet conditions. 

Crop development was reported to be behind normal.

Alfalfa and alfalfa mixtures: Production is forecast at 65.0 million tons, down 4 percent from last year. Based on 

August 1 conditions, yields are expected to average 3.36 tons per acre, down 0.04 ton from last year. If realized, this will 

be the second highest yield since 2005. Harvested area is forecast at 19.3 million acres, unchanged from the June forecast 

but down 3 percent from the previous year’s acreage.

Adequate rainfall along the Pacific Coast, across much of the Northern Tier, and in portions of the eastern half of the 

country has led to greater yield expectations in several States. Most notably, record-tying yields are forecast for Idaho, 

North Dakota, and Virginia. Elsewhere, predominately hot, dry weather in the Four Corners region as well as the southern 

Great Plains adversely affected much of the alfalfa crop.

Other hay: Production is forecast at 67.0 million tons, down 14 percent from last year. If realized, this will be the lowest 

production level since 1993. Based on August 1 conditions, yields are expected to average 1.75 tons per acre, down 

0.20 ton from last year. If realized, this will be the lowest United States yield since 1988. Harvested area is forecast at 

38.3 million acres, unchanged from the June forecast but down 4 percent from last year.
44 Crop Production (August 2011)

Unusually warm temperatures coupled with little to no moisture across much of the southern half of the country have led 

to decreased yield expectations in many States. Severe to exceptional drought conditions centered over Oklahoma and 

Texas, but stretching from the Four Corners region through much of the Delta, have negatively affected pastures and 

many grass hay fields. Elsewhere, adequate rainfall and surplus snowpack across much of the Northern Tier provided 

favorable growing conditions for hay. Producers in North Dakota, Washington, and Wyoming are expecting record high 

yields, while forecasted yields in Louisiana and South Dakota are expected to be record tying.

Tobacco: United States all tobacco production for 2011 is forecast at 726 million pounds, up 1 percent from 2010. Area 

harvested is forecast at 336,580 acres, slightly below last year. Yields for 2011 are expected to average 2,158 pounds per 

acre, 28 pounds above 2010.

Flue-cured tobacco production is expected to total 465 million pounds, 5 percent below the previous forecast. Moderate 

drought conditions were reported in some of the top producing counties, but some spotty storms provided relief during the 

past few weeks.

Burley production is expected to total 178 million pounds, down 5 percent from last year. Kentucky growers reported that 

wet spring weather delayed setting in most areas. Also, dry weather and extreme heat in late-July slowed plant growth. 

Tennessee growers are expecting an average crop, recovering from adverse conditions last year.

Fire-cured tobacco production is expected to total 52.3 million pounds, up 8 percent from the 2010 crop. Most Tennessee 

growers expect an average crop following recent beneficial rains.

Southern Maryland Belt tobacco production in Pennsylvania is expected to total 6.45 million pounds, up 30 percent from 

2010. 

Dark air-cured tobacco is expected to total 15.4 million pounds, up 2 percent from 2010. Kentucky growers reported black 

shank was becoming a problem in local areas, however disease pressure was mostly light.

All Cigar type production is expected to total 8.61 million pounds, down 21 percent from last year. In Connecticut and 

Massachusetts, mostly damp conditions were reported by growers during the spring. As the summer progressed, 

conditions became more arid.

Sugarbeets: Production of sugarbeets for the 2011 crop year is forecast at 30.4 million tons, down 5 percent from last 

year. Planted area is estimated at 1.25 million acres, up 1 percent from the June Acreage report and up 7 percent from last 

year. Producers expect to harvest 1.22 million acres, up 2 percent from the previous estimate and up 5 percent from 2010. 

Expected yield is forecast at 25.0 tons per acre, a decrease of 2.6 tons from last year.

Much of the growing region experienced a cool and wet spring, forcing growers in many States to significantly delay 

planting this season. Minnesota, which accounts for 34 percent of the total United States production, is forecasting 

1.37 million tons less production than was realized last year.

Sugarcane: Production of sugarcane for sugar and seed is forecast at 28.7 million tons, up 5 percent from last year. 

Production increases are expected in all estimating States. Producers intend to harvest 889,000 acres for sugar and seed in 

the 2011 crop year, up 11,500 acres from the previous year. Expected yield is forecast at 32.3 tons per acre, up 1.1 tons 

per acre from 2010.

Louisiana and Florida producers recorded below average rainfall through mid-summer, while July brought more timely 

rain showers for these two regions. These timely rains sustained the crops in areas hit hard by drought conditions while 

less drought stricken areas have shown good crop growth.

Prunes and plums: Production in Idaho, Michigan, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at a collective 13,050 tons, up 

8 percent from last year. Oregon growers reported that the 2011 crop is better than last year. Weather has provided good 

pollination patterns throughout the State. Washington growers reported that prune production will increase from last 

year’s weather diminished crop.
Crop Production (August 2011) 45

Hops: Hop production in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 64.2 million pounds for 2011, down 2 percent

from last year. Area strung for harvest, at 30,016 acres, is down 4 percent from 2010. Yield is estimated at 2,140 pounds 

per acre for the Pacific Northwest, 47 pounds more than in 2010.

Despite cool, wet weather conditions this spring and early summer in Washington and Oregon, most varieties were 

expected to produce average yields. Disease pressure has been high. Harvest was expected to begin up to a week later than 

normal. In Idaho, excellent growing conditions were reported this summer.

Olives: California olive production is forecast at 65,000 tons. The Manzanillo and Sevillano varieties are expected to 

account for approximately 36 percent and 7 percent of total production, respectively. All other varieties account for the 

remainder. This year’s crop is significantly smaller than the previous year’s record crop primarily due to the alternate 

bearing cycle of olives coupled with adverse weather during the blooming period. 

Peaches: United States peach production is forecast at 1.13 million tons, down 2 percent from 2010.

South Carolina peach growers expect a smaller crop than last year. Hail damage coupled with little to no rainfall tempered 

expectations for this year’s crop. New Jersey producers continued to harvest ample-sized, high quality fruit. High 

temperatures and adequate soil moisture throughout July provided ideal growing conditions for later varieties. 

Crop condition reports have been mixed this season in Pennsylvania. Some counties were hit hard by the heavy spring 

rains, tornados, and storms which damaged trees and fruit. In other areas, producers reported a good set with a heavy crop. 

Pennsylvania growers anticipate harvesting more peaches in 2011 than were harvested last year. In Michigan, harvest of 

early season peaches was underway with yields reported as excellent.

Growers in the central area of Washington indicated the late fall 2010 freeze and cold, wet spring conditions have had 

some affect on this year's crop but overall, peaches have faired well. The slower growing season was reported to be good 

for fruit quality and sizing.

Apples: The United States apple forecast for the 2011 crop year is 9.51 billion pounds, up 2 percent from last year. 

Production in the Western States (Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Oregon, Utah, and Washington) is forecast at 

5.88 billion pounds, down 3 percent from last year. Washington experienced a cold and wet spring which is expected to 

keep production below full potential this year. Oregon’s production is expected to be below last year mostly due to a hard 

freeze during pollination.

Production in the Eastern States (Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, 

North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia) is forecast at 2.36 billion pounds, 

down 2 percent from last year. Excessive rain across New York early in the spring hampered pollination and disease 

control. Many growers were concerned with the summer drought-like conditions. In Pennsylvania, apple growers 

anticipate a smaller crop than last year. Hail storms, drought, and frost have all contributed to smaller sized fruit. 

North Carolina growers are not expecting a full crop this year due to hail damage. 

Production in the Central States (Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and 

Wisconsin) is forecast at 1.27 billion pounds, an increase of 49 percent from 2010. The Michigan apple crop was reported 

to be in excellent condition. There were no significant spring frost occurrences reported. Above normal temperatures 

prevailed in July, bringing apple maturity to average levels. Wisconsin’s apple season got off to a slow start due to a cool 

spring. However, ample rain and sunshine recently has helped the crop significantly.

Pears: United States pear production for 2011 is forecast at 888,300 tons, up 9 percent from last year. Bartlett pear 

production for California, Oregon, and Washington is forecast at 414,000 tons, 8 percent above a year ago. Other pear 

production in the Pacific Coast States is expected to total 457,000 tons, 10 percent above last year.
46 Crop Production (August 2011)

In California, a cooler than average spring set fruit development slightly behind normal and delayed the start of harvest by 

one to two weeks. The Bartlett harvest began in the Sacramento Valley in the latter half of July. Harvest was expected to 

start soon in the Lake and Mendocino regions. Harvest of other pears began in late-July as well.

Spring conditions in eastern Washington were cooler and wetter than normal. Yakima had its second-wettest May in more 

than 100 years. Most growers reported a good bloom and adequate pollination and fruit set this year. Fruit quality was 

reported to be excellent with no significant issues affecting the crop.

In Oregon, freezing temperatures in November 2010, a freeze in late-February, and a cool, wet spring all hindered this 

season’s crop. Extended cool, wet weather limited pear size and delayed harvest one to two weeks. However, favorable 

summer growing conditions have led to expectations of a crop larger than last season.

Across New York, early season rains were followed by hot weather in July. In the Lake Ontario fruit region, growers were 

expecting a good crop. In the Hudson Valley, growers indicated the crop will be better than a year ago.

Coffee: Hawaii coffee production is estimated at 8.80 million pounds (parchment basis) for the 2010-2011 season, up 

1 percent from the previous season. On the Big Island, dry weather, a late harvest season, and insect damage negatively 

impacted coffee yields, however plantings on remaining islands are mostly irrigated, which made up for this lost 

production. Overall, estimated Hawaii coffee production is up 100,000 pounds from last year. Puerto Rico coffee 

production for the 2010-2011 season is estimated at 9.00 million pounds (parchment basis), unchanged from last season’s 

production.

Grapes: United States grape production for 2011 is forecast at 7.19 million tons, down 3 percent from last year. 

California leads the United States in grape production with 90 percent of the total. Washington and New York are the next 

largest producing States, with 4 percent and 3 percent, respectively.

California’s wine type grape production is forecast at 3.40 million tons, and represents 53 percent of California’s total 

grape crop. It is down 6 percent from the 2010 crop. California’s raisin type grape production is forecast at 2.05 million 

tons, 32 percent of California’s total grape crop. The raisin type grape forecast is down 1 percent from last year. Weather 

has been mostly favorable this season, although cool, wet weather in the spring resulted in some mildew problems. 

California’s table type grape production is forecast at 1.00 million tons, down 1 percent from the previous forecast.

In Washington, reports of damage caused from an early freeze last fall were common. Cold, wet spring conditions slowed 

crop development through May, however warm, dry weather in June and July provided excellent growing conditions. 

New York grape producers experienced a mild winter followed by wet conditions in May and early June. However hot, 

dry conditions mid-June through July provided good conditions for vine growth.

Florida citrus: In the citrus growing areas, weather stations reported highs in the 90s and lows mostly in the 60s. Florida 

summer weather patterns brought thunderstorms and scattered showers to the complete citrus producing region throughout 

the month. Weekly rainfall totals in most areas ranged from less than one inch to more than five inches. Drought 

conditions improved in most areas except the northeastern shore of Lake Okeechobee. In well cared for groves, next 

year’s citrus crop was in good condition. Next season’s oranges were larger than golf balls, and next season’s grapefruit 

were between baseball and softball sized.

Production practices included marking and pushing unproductive trees, irrigation, herbicide spraying, mowing, some 

hedging and topping, and brush removal. Growers are now focusing on psyllid control using both aerial and ground 

spraying.

California citrus: The Valencia orange and grapefruit harvests continued as the late navel orange harvest was completed. 

Lemons were picked along the southern coast.

California noncitrus fruits and nuts: The blueberry harvest neared completion while strawberries and blackberries were 

picked in the San Joaquin Valley. Grape vineyards across the State continued to develop well, while spraying continued to 
Crop Production (August 2011) 47

treat mildew and European grapevine moth. The peach, nectarine, and plum harvests were ongoing, while harvest of 

apricots was completed. Apples, pears, kiwis, and pomegranates continued to develop.

Growers applied hull split sprays in almond orchards across the State. Harvest preparations started despite the crop being 

delayed by one to two weeks. Good developmental progress was reported in walnut, pistachio, and pecan orchards. 

Codling moth, weed control, and fungus treatments were ongoing in walnut orchards.
48 Crop Production (August 2011)

Statistical Methodology

Survey procedures: Objective yield and farm operator surveys were conducted between July 25 and August 5 to gather 

information on expected yields as of August 1. The objective yield surveys for corn, cotton, soybeans, and wheat were 

conducted in the major producing States that usually account for about 75 percent of the United States production. Farm 

operators were interviewed to update previously reported acreage data and seek permission to randomly locate two sample 

plots in selected fields for the objective yield survey. The counts made within each sample plot depend on the crop and the 

maturity of that crop. In all cases, the number of plants is recorded along with other measurements that provide 

information to forecast the number of ears, bolls, pods, or heads and their weight. The counts are used with similar data 

from previous years to develop a projected biological yield. The average harvesting loss is subtracted to obtain a net yield.

The plots are revisited each month until crop maturity when the fruit are harvested and weighed. After the farm operator 

has harvested the sample field, another plot is sampled to obtain current year harvesting loss.

The farm operator survey was conducted primarily by telephone with some use of mail, internet, and personal interviews. 

Approximately 27,000 producers were interviewed during the survey period and asked questions about probable yield. 

These growers will continue to be surveyed throughout the growing season to provide indications of average yields.

Estimating procedures: National and State level objective yield and grower reported data were reviewed for 

reasonableness and consistency with historical estimates. The survey data were also reviewed considering weather 

patterns and crop progress compared to previous months and previous years. Each Field Office submits their analysis of 

the current situation to the Agricultural Statistics Board (ASB). The ASB uses the survey data and the State analyses to 

prepare the published August 1 forecasts. 

Revision policy: The August 1 production forecast will not be revised; instead, a new forecast will be made each month 

throughout the growing season. End-of-season estimates are made after harvest. At the end of the marketing season, a 

balance sheet is calculated using carryover stocks, production, exports, millings, feeding, and ending stocks. Revisions are 

then made if the balance sheet relationships or other administrative data warrant changes. Estimates of planted acres for 

spring planted crops are subject to revision in the August Crop Production report if conditions altered the planting 

intentions since the mid-year survey. Planted acres may also be revised for cotton, peanuts, and rice in the September 

Crop Production report each year; spring wheat, Durum wheat, barley, and oats only in the Small Grains Annual report at 

the end of September; and all other spring planted crops in the October Crop Production report. Revisions to planted acres 

will only be made when either special survey data, administrative data, such as Farm Service Agency program ―sign up‖ 

data, or remote sensing data are available. Harvested acres may be revised any time a production forecast is made if there 

is strong evidence that the intended harvested area has changed since the last forecast.

Reliability: To assist users in evaluating the reliability of the August 1 production forecast, the ―Root Mean Square 

Error," a statistical measure based on past performance, is computed. The deviation between the August 1 production 

forecast and the final estimate is expressed as a percentage of the final estimate. The average of the squared percentage 

deviations for the latest 20-year period is computed. The square root of the average becomes statistically the ―Root Mean 

Square Error.‖ Probability statements can be made concerning expected differences in the current forecast relative to the 

final end-of-season estimate, assuming that factors affecting this year's forecast are not different from those influencing 

recent years. For example, the "Root Mean Square Error" for the August 1 corn for grain production forecast is 

6.2 percent. This means that chances are 2 out of 3 that the current production forecast will not be above or below the final 

estimate by more than 6.2 percent. Chances are 9 out of 10 (90 percent confidence level) that the difference will not 

exceed 10.7 percent.

Also, shown in the following table is a 20-year record for selected crops of the differences between the August 1 forecast 

and the final estimate. Using corn again as an example, changes between the August 1 forecast and the final estimate 

during the last 20 years have averaged 433 million bushels, ranging from 16 million bushels to 1.09 billion bushels. The 

August 1 forecast has been below the final estimate 11 times and above 9 times. This does not imply that the August 1 

corn forecast this year is likely to understate or overstate final production.
Crop Production (August 2011) 49

Reliability of August 1 Crop Production Forecasts
50 Crop Production (August 2011)

Information Contacts

Listed below are the commodity statisticians in the Crops Branch of the National Agricultural Statistics Service to contact 

for additional information. E-mail inquiries may be sent to nass@nass.usda.gov

Lance Honig, Chief, Crops Branch .......................................................................................................(202) 720-2127

Jacqueline Moore, Head, Field Crops Section ...................................................................................... (202) 720-2127

 Suzanne Avilla – Peanuts, Rice........................................................................................................ (202) 720-7688

 Bryan Durham – Oats, Rye, Wheat.................................................................................................. (202) 720-8068

 Steve Maliszewski – Cotton, Cotton Ginnings, Sorghum................................................................ (202) 720-5944

 Anthony Prillaman – Corn, Proso Millet, Flaxseed ......................................................................... (202) 720-9526

 Julie Schmidt – Crop Weather, Barley, Hay .................................................................................... (202) 720-7621

 Travis Thorson – Soybeans, Sunflower, Other Oilseeds..................................................................(202) 720-7369

Jorge Garcia-Pratts, Head, Fruits, Vegetables and Special Crops Section............................................(202) 720-2127

 Debbie Flippin – Fresh and Processing Vegetables, Onions, Strawberries......................................(202) 720-2157

 Fred Granja – Apples, Apricots, Cherries, Plums, Prunes, Tobacco ...............................................(202) 720-4288

 Chris Hawthorn – Citrus, Coffee, Grapes, Sugar Crops, Tropical Fruits.........................................(202) 720-5412

 Dan Norris – Austrian Winter Peas, Dry Edible Peas, Lentils, Mint,

 Mushrooms, Peaches, Pears, Wrinkled Seed Peas, Dry Beans ..................................................(202) 720-3250

 Kim Ritchie – Hops..........................................................................................................................(360) 709-2400

 Daphne Schauber – Berries, Cranberries, Potatoes, Sweet Potatoes ...............................................(202) 720-4285

 Erika White – Floriculture, Maple Syrup, Nursery, Tree Nuts .......................................................(202) 720-4215
Access to NASS Reports

For your convenience, you may access NASS reports and products the following ways:

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For more information on NASS surveys and reports, call the NASS Agricultural Statistics Hotline at (800) 727-9540, 

7:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. ET, or e-mail: nass@nass.usda.gov. 

 

The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the 

basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial status, parental 

status, religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, genetic information, reprisal, or because all or a part of an individual's 

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To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of the Assistant 

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USDA Data Users’ Meeting

Monday October 17, 2011

Crowne Plaza Chicago-Metro

Chicago, Illinois 60661

312-829-5000

The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service will be organizing an open forum for data 

users. The purpose will be to provide updates on pending changes in the various statistical and 

information programs and seek comments and input from data users. Other USDA agencies to 

be represented will include the Agricultural Marketing Service, the Economic Research Service, 

the Foreign Agricultural Service, and the World Agricultural Outlook Board. The Foreign Trade 

Division from the Census Bureau will also be included in the meeting.

For registration details or additional information for the Data Users’ Meeting, see the NASS 

homepage at http://www.nass.usda.gov/meeting/ or contact Marie Jordan (NASS) at 

202-690-8141 or at marie_jordan@nass.usda.gov.

This Data Users’ Meeting precedes an Industry Outlook Meeting that will be held at the same 

location on Tuesday October 18, 2011. The Outlook meeting brings together analysts from 

various commodity sectors to discuss the outlook situation. For registration details or additional 

information for the Industry Outlook Meeting, see the Livestock and Marketing Information 

Center (LMIC) homepage at http://www.lmic.info/ or contact Erica Rosa 303-236-0461 at 

rosa@lmic.info or Laura Lahr 303-236-0464 at lahr@lmic.info.