The results of a June 1 yield survey in Georgia show that the state's wheat yield is down from earlier forecasts, according to the Georgia Agricultural Statistics Service. Based on a sample of growers contacted on or about June 1, wheat averaged 50 bushels per acre, down 5 bushels from the May 1 forecast.

A cooler than normal spring slowed crop development, and harvesting was well behind normal. The wetter than normal spring also caused a decline in yields. If this yield is realized, it will be 5 bushels per acre more than in 2004.

Acreage harvested for grain is estimated at 230,000 acres, up 40,000 acres from 2004. Production now is expected to total 11.50 million bushels, 35 percent more than in 2004.

The initial forecast for Georgia's peach production is 45,000 tons, or 14 percent less than last year's 52,500 tons. Winter weather provided adequate chill hours for a good fruit set. Although maturity was delayed by a cool spring, recent warm weather has been nearly ideal for peach production. Quality is expected to be very good.

The decrease in production is mainly due to a decrease in acres. Harvest as of June 5 was 17 percent complete, slightly behind normal harvesting progress.

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