In the second forecast of the 2016/17 season, the National Agricultural Statistics Service of the US Department of Agriculture has projected a slight increase in Florida’s orange production.
The report predicts an almost 3 per cent increase in the state’s orange production, to 72m boxes, while grapefruit held steady at 9.6m boxes.
“This is great news,' said Shannon Shepp, executive director of the Florida Department of Citrus (FDOC). 'We are encouraged by today’s estimate as it reflects the continued hard work and dedication of our Florida Citrus growers in the face of ongoing challenges. We remain dedicated to promoting the premium nature and quality of Florida Citrus to consumers around the world.”
The FDOC, which is partially funded by box taxes paid by the state’s citrus growers, serves as the chief marketing and promotion arm for the industry.
