Summer is ripe in the "Land of Oceana." Harvests are also ripe. The sweet and sour cherry harvest is finished here and across most of the state. Oceana growers had the best volume of tart cherries in the state this year. The normal high winds that occur just before harvest held off this year, and grades were better than previous years. Processors had most farmers on delivery quotas, which made for a longer harvest period. Prices were in the 60 cents per pound range, which was the best in several years. Apricot picking is complete. Early peaches are coming on, and the peach harvest will continue for several weeks.
The second and third hay cuttings are ongoing with a smaller volume due to the recent limited rainfall. Wheat combines are mostly finished, and yields are reported to be very good. Low market prices are making profitable returns limited at best. Nationally, the corn and soybean crops are predicted to hit almost record levels. Michigan's crops are well below the five-year average due to limited rainfall. Silking and corn pollination are at a critical stage, so adequate moisture is needed to produce good yields. Grain traders are not actively buying because of the large nationwide bean and corn predictions.
Michigan Farm Bureau's MACMA processing apple division is forecasting a 25-million-bushel crop, which is down from last year. The New York estimate is 30 million bushels, with Washington state looking at 130 to 150 million "packed units." The Oceana crop is variable, with some blocks showing limited fruit, and the trees in nearby orchards having a full crop. A heavy bloom, hot weather causing a short bloom time and limited bee activity may be causal agents. Many have noted a heavy "June drop: as well. Good processor demand is a positive note.
Oceana County Fair activities begin August 17, with most visitor interests running August 19-23. All those involved hope you can attend and support this important agricultural activity.
