NFCS: Northwest Fruit Industry Looks Good Headed Into 2017

As we continue to preview the upcoming growing season with the Northwest Farmers Credit Services, today we look at the Tree Fruit Industry.  Last month, the Washington State Tree Fruit Association’s Storage Report revealed a Northwest fresh apple crop at 134 million boxes, the second largest crop on record.  Michael Stolp with NFCS said 2016-17 crop size continues to come down from the 137.9 million boxes estimated in December.

"Crop shrinkage is driven mainly by quality issues associated with early harvest heat and late-season rains. Apple sales are on pace with past years. Headwinds moving forward include sales of traditional varieties facing lower demand and fruit with larger profiles.”

Stolp added the 12-month outlook for profitability is positive for growers whose varietal mix meets consumer demand.

Switching to cherries, Stolp said there are a few positives from the cold Northwest winter, including fewer cherry pests and virus issues.

“Growing degree days to date are near historic averages, placing forecasts of harvest start dates near mid-June. This favors early-season cherry growers with a supply gap afforded by California, where growing degree days are ahead of normal and an early harvest is expected. A crop size similar to 2016 and expectations for a well-timed harvest support a profitable 12-month outlook.”

When discussing Northwest pears, Stolp said no significant damage was reported after several pear-growing areas in the Northwest experienced negative temperatures this winter.  Current pear prices parallel supplies, with d’Anjou prices up on a smaller crop and Bartlett and Bosc prices down on larger crops.  Despite slow shipments and weak export markets, Northwest FCS’ 12-month outlook is for stable pear-grower profits, supported by harvest yields, packouts and favorable prices.

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