Nov 9, 20212021 Washington apple harvest estimate updated
The Washington State Tree Fruit Association released its updated estimate of the 2021 Washington state fresh apple crop.
The August forecast estimated the Washington state apple harvest to be 124.85 million standard forty pound boxes of fresh apples. After receiving updated data from the Washington State Tree Fruit Association (WSTFA) members who have picked a majority of the crop, that estimate has decreased by 5.3%.
“Apple harvest is still wrapping-up for some Washington varieties, but based on volumes harvested so far our members are expecting a decrease to 118.255 million boxes,” Jon DeVaney, WSTFA president, said in a news release. “Our members are reporting smaller crops of some varieties including Honeycrisp, Galas and Red Delicious. High heat earlier in the season affected what was ultimately picked in some cases. The organic crop is still projected to be over 15 million boxes. In spite of the smaller harvest, we are seeing high-quality fruit and consumers can expect delicious Washington apples throughout 2022.”
The report is based on a survey of WSTFA members, and represents fruit picked so far through Oct. 31, and a best estimate of what is still to be harvested. It represents the harvested total volume of apples that will eventually be packed and sold on the fresh market (excluding product sent to processor).