Florida is expected to produce 81.1 million boxes of Oranges, 10.85 million boxes of Grapefruit
BARTOW, Fla. – This season’s Florida Orange and Grapefruit crops increased over last month’s estimate, according to projections released Tuesday by the National Agricultural Statistics Service of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
The Florida Orange crop is projected to produce 81.1 million boxes this season, an increase of 5.1 million boxes, according to the report, while the Florida Grapefruit crop increased by 150,000 boxes to 10.85 million boxes.
“Today’s forecast brings a little more sunshine to our sunshine state,” said Shannon Shepp, executive director of the Florida Department of Citrus. “We are glad to see the numbers go up for our growers who continue to produce high-quality, premium citrus in the face of one of the toughest challenges to hit our industry. We remain dedicated to supporting their hard work and educating consumers on the great taste, nutritional benefits and safety of Florida Citrus.”
About the Florida Department of Citrus
The Florida Department of Citrus is an executive agency of Florida government charged with the marketing, research and regulation of the Florida citrus industry. Its activities are funded by a tax paid by growers on each box of citrus that moves through commercial channels. The industry employs nearly 62,000 people, provides an annual economic impact of nearly $10.7 billion to the state, and contributes hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenues that help support Florida’s schools, roads and health care services. For more information about the Florida Department of Citrus, please visit FloridaCitrus.org.
