In its first forecast of the 2016/17 season, the National Agriculture Statistics Service of the US Department of Agriculture has projected a decline in the Florida Citrus crop.
The report predicts a 14 per cent drop in the state’s orange production to 70m boxes, while the Florida grapefruit crop is projected to produce 9.6m boxes, a decrease of 11.5 per cent.
“Today’s crop estimate, while a decline from last season, is a representation of the unrelenting dedication and hard work of Florida Citrus growers,' explained Shannon Shepp, executive director of the Florida Department of Citrus. 'In the face of significant challenges, they continue to push forward with new plantings and advanced agricultural techniques that allow them to maintain the viability of their groves. Citrus greening is a disease unlike any we have ever faced but the Florida Citrus industry will prevail.”
The forecast was revealed at an event held at Dark Hammock Legacy Ranch in Lake Placid, where many growers reportedly welcomed the forecast despite the reduced numbers.
“Growers are striving to do everything we can to keep Florida Citrus the best it can be,' said Ellis Hunt, chairman of the Florida Citrus Commission and a Lake Wales citrus grower. 'This forecast is higher than initial estimates and I’m looking forward to the day we can see this number start rising again.'
Attending the event, state representative Ben Albritton, chairman of the agriculture and natural resources appropriations committee, acknowledged that while the numbers are lower than last season’s crop, they keep Florida Citrus competitive.
“Seventy million boxes represents industry stability and now we have to have the fortitude to continue to reinvest and do so at unprecedented levels so we can again regain our rightful place as the world’s largest producer of the highest quality juice and citrus,' he noted.
Reacting to the forecast, Michael Sparks of Florida Citrus Mutual said there was 'cautious optimism' for the season ahead.
'The all-Florida orange forecast number of 70m boxes is about what we expected, and although it's low Florida growers will again use their trademark resilience to bring consumers the best citrus in the world,' he said. 'We expect upward pressure on grower returns.'
