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2009-2010 Florida Citrus Crop Expected to Decrease

Contact: Andrew Meadows at (863) 682-1111 or (cell)(863) 944-4924
For Immediate Release:

LAKELAND, Fla. (October 9, 2009) –The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) released its initial citrus crop forecast for the 2009-2010 season, estimating Florida will produce 136 million boxes of oranges, a 16 percent decrease from last season.

“This is a solid number for Florida citrus growers,” said Michael W. Sparks, executive VP/CEO of Florida Citrus Mutual. “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.”

“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.”

Visit www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Florida/Publications/Citrus/cpfp.htm for the complete USDA estimate. The USDA makes its initial forecast in October and then revises it monthly until the end of the season in July.

“Once again Florida growers are expected to produce a quality crop,” said Fran Becker, Mutual’s president. “Despite many challenges, Florida growers continue to be the best and most efficient citrus producers in the world.”

The USDA predicts Florida will harvest 19.8 million boxes of grapefruit in ’09-‘10, down 9 percent from 21.7 million last season.

The forecast for early and midseason varieties in Florida is projected at 69 million boxes and Valencias are projected to total 67 million boxes this season. For Florida specialty fruit, the USDA predicts 1 million boxes of tangelos and 4.9 million boxes of tangerines. The yield for from concentrate orange juice (FCOJ) is expected to be 1.63 gallons per 90-pound box.

The Florida citrus industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 76,000 people, and covering more than 569,000 acres. Founded in 1948 and currently representing nearly 8,000 grower members, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state’s largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com.