USDA Predicts Decrease to 2012-2013 Orange Crop

LAKELAND, Fla. (February 8, 2013)-The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Friday said its estimate of the 2012-2013 Florida orange crop decreased less than one percent to 141 million boxes. The decrease occurred in the Valencia variety which declined 1 million boxes from the USDA's January estimate to 75 million boxes. Early-mid varieties held steady at 66 million boxes. The USDA makes its initial estimate in October of each year and revises it monthly as the crop takes shape until the end of the season in July. Visit www.nass.usda.gov/Statistics_by_State/Florida/Publications/Citrus/cpfp.htm for the complete USDA estimate. During the 2011-2012 season, Florida produced 146.6 million boxes of oranges. The Florida grapefruit estimate remained the same at 18 million boxes. Tangerines and tangelos each decreased 100,000 boxes to 3.7 million and 1 million respectively. The yield for from concentrate orange juice (FCOJ) increased to 1.62 gallons per 90-pound box. The Florida citrus industry creates a $9 billion annual economic impact, employing nearly 76,000 people, and covering about 550,000 acres. Founded in 1948, Florida Citrus Mutual is the state's largest citrus grower organization. For more information, visit www.flcitrusmutual.com. To receive winter weather updates follow FCM on Twitter.