In late August 2020, ahead of the hazelnut harvest season, the USDA published their annual forecast for hazelnut production in Oregon based on a yield survey funded by the Oregon Hazelnut Marketing Board. They forecasted production to be 71,000 tons, a 61% increase from the year prior.
Hazelnut growers are excited to report that the forecasted numbers were correct. It was, in fact, a boom year for the crop in the Pacific Northwest. The substantial rise can be attributed to a 20% increase in mature acreage and healthy trees. Growers didn’t have to contend with blight as they have in years past.
In addition to it being a record output, growers also saw higher returns on their crop this year. George Packing Co., in partnership with the Hazelnut Growers Bargaining Association was able to negotiate higher field prices than in years past plus a bonus for growers that will be paid out by March 31, 2021.
Outlook for 2021 and Beyond
Total hazelnut acreage planted in Oregon is nearing 85,000 acres which means there are another 25,000 acres of hazelnut trees approaching maturity. That fact, combined with the advancements in nut harvesting equipment that continue to improve the harvesting process, we expect to see more record-breaking in the years ahead.
If you already own a Monchiero harvester, be sure to check out our Monchiero Optimization Clinic with Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf product specialist, Carl Laux, prior to next year’s harvest. He’ll help you set up your Monchiero for success.
Don’t already own a Monchiero and want to know more? Contact your nearest Papé Machinery Agriculture & Turf location today.
