Corn production is forecast at 14.4 billion bushels, up 3 % from both the August forecast and from 2013. Based on conditions as of Sept. 1, yields are expected to average 171.7 bushels per acre, up 4.3 bushels from the August forecast and 12.9 bushels above the 2013 average. If realized, this will be the highest yield and production on record for the United States. Area harvested for grain is forecast at 83.8 million acres, unchanged from the August forecast, but down 4% from 2013.
Soybean production is forecast at a record 3.91 billion bushels, up 3% from August and up 19% from last year. But California Navel orange crops for the 2014-2015 season are forecast at 1.62 million tons (40.5 million boxes), down 4% from last season. Producers cite the drought and December 2013 freeze as reasons for the decline.
Source: www.usda.gov, www.agweb.com
