Crop estimates for the main cereal crops and potatoes for the year 2007 have been issued by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).
The yield and production estimates for cereal yields were obtained from a post-harvest survey of 229 growers, whilst potato estimates were derived from a survey involving pre-harvest digs covering potato crops on over 180 farms.
Estimates for the areas of each crop were published on 20 November. The following estimates refer to crop yields and production:
- Barley: Production is up by 4% compared with 2006. This is due to a 4% increase in average yield. There was little change in the total area of barley planted.
- Wheat: Production is up by 3% despite a decrease of 2% in the average yield. The fall in yield was compensated by an increase of 5% in the area of wheat planted.
- Oats: Production of oats has decreased by 4%. Average yields per hectare are down 12% while the area planted has risen by 9%.
- Potatoes: The pre-harvest estimate of production of maincrop ware and seed potatoes is 5% lower in 2007 than that for 2006. This is due to a 7% decrease in yield. There was little change in the total area of potatoes planted.
Notes to Editors:
- Detailed tables of the figures can be accessed online at: Crop Yields and Production Estimates 2007.
- All media queries to DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
