MONTGOMERY, AL - According to the USDA’s August Crop Production Report this year acres planted in peanuts are down 90,000 acres in comparison to 2012. Overall peanut production is projected to be down 55%. With record rainfall recorded throughout many areas of Alabama, several acres of peanuts will be lost as a result of standing water in the fields. Farmers are also facing an increase of weeds and disease because spraying was delayed by the excessive rainfall. Despite the complications brought on by significant rain totals farmers are cautiously optimistic and hoping for at least an average 2013 peanut crop on well drained fields.
Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries John McMillan stated, “This has been one of the wettest summer’s I can remember and because of that we were afraid the peanut crop could be a total loss. I’m encouraged by what I’ve seen in the fields and heard from several of our Alabama peanut growers.”
As you can see in the provided photo some peanuts are completely mature and there are several well on their way. Peanut harvest is expected to begin around September 15th in South Alabama.
Approximately half of the peanuts grown in the United States are grown within a 100-mile radius of Dothan, Alabama. The peanut Industry contributes over $211 million to our state’s economy and provides over 2,000 jobs.
Interesting Facts about Peanuts (Provided by the Alabama Peanut Producers Association)
Nearly half of the United States peanut crop is used to make peanut butter and Americans eat 3 pounds of peanut butter per person every year. That's about 700 million pounds, or enough to coat the floor of the Grand Canyon. Nutrition studies show peanuts and peanut butter are good for you! There are many health benefits from eating peanuts, peanut butter and using peanut oil. In fact, studies show that when eaten in small amounts daily, peanuts reduce the risk of a number of chronic diseases.
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Amy Belcher
Communications Director
Alabama Dept. of Agriculture & Industries
334/240-7126 office
334/799-5050 cell