Valley notes

I was talking to a USDA market news reporter in Fresno late this morning and she said that temps were only in the 100-104 range this week. That's much more bearable than the 110-112 degree temps of last week, she observed. Of course, that's easy for us to say, sitting in air conditioned comfort - but I'm sure she has a point.

She mentioned the USDA hopes to begin an f.o.b. for organic grapes from California in about two weeks. I asked what the premium for organic grapes has been running of late, and she said that organic grapes have in recent trading notched a $3 per lug premium over conventional grapes. Overall grape prices have been lower than last year with Mexico's volume stronger longer, and California grape prices are very promotable. Flames with medium berry sizes are approaching the $10 per carton level. By rights, that should translate into some 99 cents per pound retail ads for seedless grapes in the not-too-distant future.

Meanwhile, a tree fruit shipper in Kingsburg reports that white flesh peaches and nectarines are trading to good demand; ample supply was anticipated through August. Sizes were peaking on 48s and larger, and the price range of $13-17 per carton was expected to persist.