Florida citrus growers, feeling the effects of plant disease and shrinking grove lands, are forecast to produce 16 percent less fruit during the 2009-10 season than they did a year ago, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Gary Russ, a citrus grower in Manatee County, said Friday there have been a lot of problems, and that a smaller crop could help strengthen prices.
“We certainly need a break,” Russ said.
Michael W. Sparks, executive vice president and chief executive officer of Florida Citrus Mutual, said the forecast represents a solid number for Florida growers.
“At 136 million boxes we suspect the prices growers get for their fruit will increase and that’s crucial to cover high production costs as they continue to battle serious diseases such as greening and canker,” Sparks said in a press release. “The good news is that our industry’s ample inventory of orange juice will allow consumers to continue to get a terrific tasting, nutritious product at a great value.”
Fran Becker of Bradenton, Mutual’s president, said, “Despite many challenges, Florida growers continue to be the best and most efficient citrus producers in the world. Once again Florida growers are expected to produce a quality crop.”
In addition to citrus greening and canker, Florida growers also face stiff competition from foreign growers.
Florida Citrus Mutual, the state’s largest citrus grower organization, estimates the industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, and employs nearly 76,000 people.
Peace River Valley Citrus Growers Association, which represents growers in Manatee and several other counties, also released a statement on the new federal forecast Friday.
“The reduction is not a surprise for Florida growers who are hoping the smaller crop will translate to higher prices they are paid for their fruit. In a recent USDA report, citrus acreage in Florida declined again, emulating a 10-year pattern of reduced citrus acreage. Disease and development are attributed with creation of this pattern,” according to Peace River.
“Reduced availability of oranges should translate to higher prices for growers, but this hasn’t been the trend in recent years. Lower grower prices also do not
translate to lower consumer prices,” Peace River said.
Most of the fruit grown in Manatee County goes toward juice production, for companies such as Tropicana.
Cecil Burnett, who one had 1,100 acres in citrus, now has only about three acres north of Ellenton.
Due to frost damage, he said he was pessimistic that his trees would match even the 16 percent decline that is forecast statewide.
For more information, visit www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Florida/Publications/Citrus/cpfp.htm for the complete USDA estimate.
James A. Jones Jr., East Manatee editor, can be contacted at 748-0411, ext. 7021.
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