Preliminary Estimates of Principal Field Crop Areas, conducted during the period of May 27 to June 7 and released on June 29. May. The condition of special crops is generally good at the present time, however warm weather will be needed during the summer so that they can mature before the first frost in the fall. The risk of frost damage is higher than last year due to the later seeding. In eastern Canada, dry beans were seeded earlier than normal and are doing well. However rain will be needed throughout the growing season because of the lower than normal soil moisture reserves.
Total supply is forecast to increase marginally due to high carry-in stocks.
Export demand for feed peas to Europe is expected to remain strong due to lower European production. Export demand of food peas to Latin America and especially Asia, is also expected to remain strong due to lower world production. Domestic consumption, mainly for livestock feed, is forecast to increase as livestock producers become more accustomed to using peas in their rations, combined with good supply and competitive prices. The weighted average price of all types and markets is forecast to be similar to 1998-99. White pea bean harvested area is forecast to more than double.