Estimates of crop yields and production in 2009

Yield and production estimates for the main cereal crops and potatoes for the year 2009 were issued today by the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD).

The estimates for cereal yields were obtained from a post-harvest survey of 235 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 as part of the results of the June Agricultural Census on 19 November 2009. The following estimates refer to crop yields and production:

Barley

Production of barley is up by 6% (to 140,000 tonnes) compared with 2008 (131,000 tonnes). This is due to an increase in both the area grown and the average yield of spring barley in 2009. Conversely, winter barley yield and area grown has fallen in 2009 compared to 2008.

Wheat

Production has fallen by 24% (to 73,000 tonnes) due to a fall in 16% of area planted and 9% in yields compared to 2008.

Oats

Production of oats has increased marginally to 11,000 tonnes despite a decrease of 15% in the area of oats planted. The fall in area of oats planted was fully compensated by an increase of 20% in the average yield.

Potatoes

The pre-harvest estimate of production of maincrop ware and seed potatoes is 7% higher in 2009 than that for 2008. This is due primarily to an increase of 8% in the average yield. The total tonnage estimated for Northern Ireland was 174,000 tonnes.

Tables can be accessed on the DARD website.

Notes to editors:

1. All media enquiries should be directed to the DARD Press Office on 028 9052 4619. Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.