NWFCS: Apple Prices Up, Pear Shipments Down

Northwest Farm Credit Services, is out with its quarterly Market Snapshot, looking at major agricultural commodities in the region.  Taking a look at the tree-fruit industry.  Karen Witt, NWFCS Vice President said 2016 apple packouts are being affected by quality issues in storage.  However, prices in general are increasing slightly.

“Reds, Galas and other less domestically desirable varieties are finding relief in the export markets. The industry anticipates that the 2016 crop will clean up before the 2017 harvest. The apple industry is profitable due to favorable prices for new varieties and a strong export market.”

When looking at pears, Witt says the percent of the 2016 pear crop shipped to date is lower than the last five years due to weakened exports and lower domestic demand.

“The 2017 crop is estimated at 17.6 million 40-pound boxes, which is smaller than the 2016 crop. The Bosc pear crop in particular is expected to be very small due to bloom issues. This may positively impact demand for other varieties.”

Witt noted that overall good quality for the 2016 pear crop kept many producers profitable.

Join us Friday as we take a look at the 2017 outlook for potatoes and onions.

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