nass.usda.gov
The 2014 California walnut production is forecast at a record
545,000 tons, up 11 percent from 2013's production of 492,000
tons. This forecast is based on the 2014 Walnut Objective
Measurement (O.M.) Survey, officially conducted by the
National Agricultural Statistics Service August 1 through
August 22, 2014. There were a few samples completed before
August 1 for training and scheduling purposes.
Despite a lack of chilling hours and a drought that has hit
California, the 2014 walnut crop is forecast at a record level.
Growers used surface water where available and groundwater
when necessary to provide adequate water supply to the trees.
Weather conditions during the growing season were mild thus
benefitting the crop. Crop quality is excellent with low disease
and insect pressures. Overall, the 2014 crop is developing
faster than last year and harvest is expected to start early.
The 2014 Walnut O.M. Survey utilized a total of 746 blocks
with two sample trees per block. Survey data indicated an
average nut set of 1,372 per tree, up 11 percent from 2013's
record low average of 1,239. Percent of sound kernels in-shell
was 98.7 percent Statewide. In-shell weight per nut was 21.2
grams, and the average in-shell suture measurement was 32.5
millimeters. The in-shell cross-width measurement was 32.4
and the average length in-shell was 38.1 millimeters. All of the
sizing measurements were above average levels.
Estimated nut sets, sizing measurements, average number of
trees per acre, and estimated bearing acreage were used in
the statistical models.