Animal Enterprises
The gross farm value for all animal enterprises is an estimated $1.06 billion for 2001. Value added is $580 million. The total value of all animal enterprises to the Louisiana economy exceeds $1.6 billion.
Beef Cattle
The beef cattle industry continues to be the second largest animal production industry in the state. Continued high prices for calves resulted in a slight increase in cow numbers in 2001 to 651,126 head from 650,028 head in 2000. In addition, the number of producers increased slightly to 12,729 in 2001 from 12,386 in 2000.

Gross farm income from beef cattle was $283.0 million in 2001, up $11.3 million from $271.7 million in 2000, reflecting larger calf sales and continued good annual calf prices despite a price decline in the fall because of large fed beef supplies and the September 11 tragedy.

The number of steer calves in the 300 to 600 weight range sold was 255,032 head, up from 242,729 head in 2000. The number of heifer calves of the same weight range sold was 206,654, up from 195,232 head in 2000.

The gross farm value of the steer sales in 2001 was $109.7 million, up from $102.4 million. The value of the heifers sold in 2001 was $79.2 million, up from $73.9 million in 2000.

Slightly more cows coupled with good pasture conditions and continued high prices encouraged producers to increase production.

Sales of yearling cattle of both sexes were 62,268 head, down from 64,172 head in 2000. Increased calf prices in the fall of 2000 encouraged producers to sell their own calves rather than retain them for grazing. The increased calf prices also discouraged stocker operators by increasing their costs of production. The value of the yearling cattle sold was $33.5 million in 2001, up from $32.3 million in 2000. Higher feeder cattle prices in the spring overcame the lower numbers sold to increase gross farm value.

The number of cow-calf pairs sold decreased to 40,929 pairs from 47,148 pairs in 2000, indicating producers are increasing their herd sizes. The gross farm value of the pairs in 2001 was $29.9 million, down from $32.5 million the previous year.

The number of cull cows sold declined to 71,263 head in 2001, from 72,373 head in 2000, also suggesting an increase in herd size. The gross farm value of the cull cows in 2001 was $24.5 million, up from $22.6 million in 2000.

The number of cull bulls sold in 2001 was 7,650 head, down from 11,134 head in 2000. The gross farm value of cull bulls in 2001 was $6.1 million.

Good pasture conditions, continued good cattle prices and expectations of good prices for the next several years encouraged producers to reduce culling of pairs, older cows and bulls.

The gross farm value sales of the beef cattle industry in 2001 was $283,013,109 with value added of $31,131,442 for a total value of $314,144,551.
 
DAIRYING
Milk production was reported by 23 parishes in 2001. Three parishes in the southeastern part of the state and one parish in the northwest accounted for about 89% of the milk production, about 87% of the herds and 90% of the dairy cows in Louisiana. Dairy farms decreased from 434 in 2000 to 414 in 2001. The number of milking cows decreased from 54,640 in 2000 to 50,368 in 2001. Total milk production decreased from 699.5 million pounds in 2000 to 624.6 million pounds in 2001. The on-farm value of milk decreased slightly from $97.6 million in 2000 to $97.4 million in 2001. The small difference in the on-farm value of milk was caused mainly by the significantly higher average price received for milk during 2001, since there was a substantial decrease in total milk production in the state. The value of cull cows and calves was an estimated $8.75 million in 2001. Total income from milk and animal sales to Louisiana dairy producers was $106.2 million. The total economic contribution from dairying in Louisiana, including animal sales and added value, was $257.2 million.

Milk production from 151 dairy goats was 22,420 pounds of milk with a gross farm value of $4,932.

The total gross farm value of milk produced from dairy cows and dairy goats was $97,446,516.

HORSES
The horse industry is an important economic stimulus for Louisiana. About 200,000 horses are owned by an estimated 60,000 people. The average horse owner spends about $3,000 per year on feed, equipment, tack, veterinary supplies and medicines. This results in an estimated $600 million in economic activity.

About 3,556 producers derive an income from the horse business. They owned 21,995 mares that produced 12,475 foals that were sold in 2001 for $31.6 million. These producers own 1,066 stallions that were bred to 13,371 mares, generating income from stallion fees of $7.2 million for their owners. The total income generated directly from horse production in 2001 was $38,788,125.

The race horse industry generates a tremendous cash flow. An estimated 1,675 owners have 7,362 race horses that generate economic activity of $69 million. The tracks employ 3,000 people and generate expenditures in excess of a half a billion dollars. Related industries such as feed companies, healthcare sellers, farriers, etc. generate an additional $25 million to $35 million on products and services. The combined effects of breeding, racetrack operation and related industries generate more than $650 million in expenditures, employ thousands of people and require 30,000 to 50,000 acres of land.

Horse shows, rodeos, youth programs and other competitive activities also have an impact on the state economy. An estimated 3,692 owners of competitive horses own 8,868 horses. These horses generate an estimated $35 million in expenditures. There are about 500 horse shows, rodeos and youth activities each year that generate about $8.5 million in expenditures.

Many horse owners have horses purely for their pleasure and enjoyment. An estimated 13,710 people own 30,811 horses primarily for recreational riding. Expenditures on these horses generate $31 million in revenue. The total direct impact of the horse industry in Louisiana is more than $1 billion.

POULTRY
BROILERS AND EGGS
 Poultry production continues to be the largest animal agricultural industry in Louisiana and is second only to forestry in total income production for all agricultural commodities. Almost 1 billion pounds of broilers were produced in 2001. Their gross farm value was $395 million. Broiler producer numbers rose for the first time in four years from 553 in 2000 to 575 in 2001. Commercial broilers are produced in 12 parishes including Bienville, Claiborne, Jackson, Lincoln, Livingston, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Sabine, Union, Vernon, Webster and Winn.

The total number of table egg producers in Louisiana, 1,383, remained unchanged from 2000 to 2001. Table egg production fell from 35.7 million dozen in 2000 to 27.4 million dozen in 2001. Lower production resulted in a decrease in farm value for commercial egg production, from $23.2 million in 2000 to $11.7 million in 2001.

The gross farm value for all poultry production in Louisiana exceeded $493 million in 2001.

Ratite and Other Exotic Fowl
The sale of ratites and exotic fowl generated $15,050 in Louisiana in 2001. The decline in bird values continued. Total number of producers in Louisiana fell to 74. There were 370 birds produced in 2001, and they sold for a farm value of $15,050.
 
Quail and Pheasants
There were 30,390 birds produced in 2001, up from 24,630 in 2000. Quail and pheasants generated a gross farm value of $26,570 in 2001.

Rabbits
 The production of rabbits for meat and exhibition involved 369 producers in 2001, down from 398 in 2000. There were 248 fryer producers. This facet of the industry produced 422,158 pounds of meat. Louisiana rabbit producers generated $1,083,151 in gross income.

SHEEP & Goats
Fifty-five parishes reported production of sheep and goats. Sheep were produced by 667 producers and goats by 659 producers. Breeding ewes were estimated at 9,035 head and breeding does at 9,762.

Acadia (1,500), St. Landry (1,485), Vermilion (1,250), Calcasieu (750), Allen (500), Lafayette (500), Evangeline (444), Beaureguard (400) and Iberia (400) reported the largest number of breeding ewes.

Calcasieu (600), Livingston (600), Ouachita (600), Beaureguard (550), Rapides (500), Evangeline (375), Nachitoches (350), St. Landry (344), East Baton Rouge (300) and Allen (300) reported the largest number of breeding does.

Total number of lambs marketed (slaughter, feeder and club lambs) was estimated at 9,798 head. Stocker sheep sold numbered 960 head. Wool production was an estimated 58,120 pounds. Cull sheep sold were estimated at 1,836 head.

Total number of slaughter goats was estimated at 7,212 head. Stocker goats numbered 3,952 head. Cull goats numbered 2,436 head.

Gross farm value from sheep, wool and goats was estimated at $2,167,731. Value added amounted to $195,095. Total value of sheep, wool and goats was about $2,362,826.

SWINE
The number of Louisiana pork producers declined slightly to 509 producers in 2001 from 517 in 2000. Fifty-three parishes reported production of pigs. The size of the breeding herd remained essentially the same at 4,754 sows in 2001 compared to 4,765 sows in 2000.

Some 4,769 show pigs were sold in 2001, up from 4,414 show pigs sold in 2000. There were 17,494 feeder pigs and 41,950 market hogs produced and sold in 2001. The number of cull animals sold in 2001 was 2,816, down from 3,426 in 2000. Total pig production was 64,213 head, down from 72,920 head in 2000. Gross farm value to swine producers was slightly over $7 million, up slightly from 2000. Improved hog prices contributed to the increase in gross farm value of hogs in 2001.

Producers continue to retain gilts and use artificial insemination to produce high quality show pigs. The show pig industry continues to grow in Louisiana. The 4,769 show pigs sold averaged $275 per head, up slightly from 2000, for a total of $1,311,475. This premium income continues to help some producers to stay in business.

The total gross farm value for swine is an estimated $7,005,872 in 2001, up from $6,962,442 in 2000.

Exotic Animals
Twenty-three producers were engaged in deer or antelope production in 2001, with a herd of 1,522 animals that sold 1,213 animals for a gross farm value of $500,700. This is down slightly from 2000.

Llamas were produced on eight farms in 2001, down from 10 in 2000, with 57 breeding animals that produced 41 animals for sale. Gross farm value of llama sales was $69,700.

Total exotic animal gross farm value for 2001 was $570,400, down slightly from 2000.

FISHERIES AND WILDLIFE ENTERPRISES
The total gross farm income for all fisheries and wildlife enterprises is $478.3 million for 2001. Value added is $376.6 million. Total value for all fishery and wildlife enterprises is $854.9 million.

AQUACULTURE
The estimated gross farm value for Louisiana aquaculture crops in 2001 increased modestly over the previous year. Pond-bank prices for farm-raised catfish fell to their lowest levels in almost a decade in 2001, exhibiting a continuing 4- to 5-year price cycle that reflects, in part, the seasonal availability of fingerlings and average turnover time within production ponds. Louisiana's catfish industry accounted for 13,312 acres and 64,089,260 pounds in 2001, representing decreases of 7.5% and 4.5%, respectively, from the previous year. The gross farm value of farm-raised catfish was $39.8 million in 2001.

Louisiana crawfish acreage in the 2000-2001season was estimated at 84,635 acres, virtually unchanged from the previous season. Farm-raised crawfish production (almost 28 million pounds) almost doubled compared to the previous year. Improved production across the industry was attributed to cessation of drought conditions and moderate fall temperatures. Farm crawfish production had a gross farm value of $36.9 million.

The harvest of farm-raised alligators increased significantly again in 2001. Total value of farm-raised alligators was estimated at $16.4 million, up 43% from the previous year.

Oyster production continues to be an important component of aquaculture in Louisiana. An estimated 1,261,732 sacks of oysters were harvested from coastal sites, with a value of $20.7 million. Although farmed minnow and bait fish production and acreage were up slightly, estimated value was up 47% at $4.9 million.

FISHERIES
The harvest of freshwater and marine fish and shellfish in Louisiana continued to be a significant economic activity. Landings of the numerous species are recorded by two agencies. The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) receives monthly reports from the initial buyers (processors, dealers, etc.). Species, weight and dockside value of the landings are reported for all commercially harvested species. The National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) is responsible for estimating the landings of shrimp. This is achieved via local NMFS data collectors. NMFS is solely responsible for estimates of recreationally caught marine fish and shellfish. Because of extensive delays in the availability of recreational catch data from state and federal marine waters, only the previous year's catch can be reported here.

The freshwater fisheries and marine fisheries data should be considered estimates. Data are based on landings reported to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries through August. At press time, this is the most recent available. The remaining four months of landings are projected by extrapolating fisheries production from previous years. Landings from parishes with fewer than three initial buyers are excluded from the reported numbers so as to maintain confidentiality.
 
FRESHWATER FISHERIES
Freshwater finfish production is comprised primarily of catfish, buffalo, gar and freshwater drum. Catfish, typically the most valuable of the finfisheries, declined 23% in pounds landed and 19% in value from the year before; however, catfish landings in 2000 were 50% higher than in 1999 and above the long-term average. The high catfish landings in 2000 were attributed to the collapse in crawfish production and the resultant shift in fishing pressure to catfish. Crawfish landings increased by 275% in 2001 but were still below the long-term average. With the increased production, the price received per pound for crawfish declined by 53% from the record prices of 2000. Buffalo production in 2001 declined 21%, also probably because of increased crawfish availability. Buffalo landings tend to be highly erratic. Production of gar continued to decline, primarily because of the gill net ban in southern Louisiana. Total freshwater fisheries production increased by 18%, totally because of the increase in crawfish landings. Total value of the fishery declined by 6%, primarily because of the large decline in price per pound received for crawfish, but also because of decreased catfish, buffalo and gar landings.

FISHERIES (MARINE)
Marine commercial fisheries landings increased in volume by 18%, all of it because of a 22% increase in menhaden landings. Total value of the marine fishery declined by slightly over 1%, in spite of the increase in volume. The decline in price per pound in the high-value shrimp fishery and declines in finfish landings managed to offset the increase in landings in crabs and low-value menhaden. Shrimp, the most valuable marine fishery, remained at a harvest level of more than 100 million pounds, but price received per pound declined 8%. Blue crab landings increased 6% in weight and 27% in value. Prices received for blue crabs continue to escalate as supplies from the Atlantic Coast dwindle. Edible marine finfish declined by 49% in volume and 44% in value. Some of this decline is caused by increasingly stringent harvest regulations, and some was by market conditions.

Marine recreational anglers are a large group of more than 699,000. The latest data available from the National Marine Fisheries Service indicate that Louisiana saltwater anglers caught 39.2 million fish in 2000, of which they retained 17.1 million. Much of the release is attributed to regulations limiting the size and number of fish that may be retained. Both total catch and retention were up substantially from the previous year.

FUR PRODUCTION
The 2000 - 2001 harvest of fur animal pelts and meat had a gross farm value of $346,130. This represented a total statewide harvest of 57,493 animals. The average gross farm value for all pelts, regardless of species, was $5.89. Pelt prices varied with lows of 50 cents for opossum to highs of $33 for river otter. Value-added components for this commodity raised the total value to $425,048. Nutria account for 51% of the pelts sold in the state, with the other half comprised of muskrat, raccoon, mink, opossum, river otter, red fox, gray fox, bobcat, beaver and coyote. Production figures represented considerable gains over last year's data, indicating a slight upturn in the fur market in Louisiana. Prices are still very low, however, when considering the long-term fur market.

Meat produced as a by-product from harvested furs was derived primarily from nutria and raccoon. The total production was 15,000 pounds with a gross farm value of $7,500. Various incentives continue to be made available to individuals in an effort to promote the sale and consumption of nutria meat. The Louisiana Department of Natural Resources is the lead agency involved in a federal program that provides payments to processors and trappers to use nutria meat for human consumption. The program is part of the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Preparation and Restoration Act. Storage problems associated with using nutria as alligator feed continue to make dry commercial feed the major feed used by alligator farms.

Although showing a slight rebound over last year's dismal prices and production figures, a weak overseas market for United States furs continues to hold down prices. Low prices received by trappers fail to create a favorable atmosphere for expansion.

HONEY
Production in Louisiana in 2001 was down 25%. Although losses were attributed to the environment and mites, overall colony registration was down with only 29,079 colonies registered. Commercial production averaged 100 pounds per colony. Commercial queen and package production in Louisiana continues to fall, and more are brought in from various areas. Sales of bees and equipment in Louisiana returned $220,000 to beekeepers. Pollination still remains the greatest value to the state with more than $400,000,000 in service to the state's homeowners, farmers and wildlife.

The increase in feral colonies will be short lived and will crash in the next couple of years. These colonies are moving into mite-infested areas and, once infested, will die out. The next resurgence of feral colonies from the Russian lines will be in about three years and will help to maintain the feral populations. About 1,200 hives were leased for pollination, adding $36,000 to beekeepers' incomes.

Honey prices increased because of reduced production in China and Venezuela and the continuation of tariffs and quotas on imported honey. This year's price was $0.65 per pound. There is a strong potential for increasing prices in the coming year. Honey production was down because of environmental conditions, even with improved management. In 2001, beekeepers earned $2,715,616 from the wholesale and retail sales of honey, wax, pollination services and the sale of bees and equipment. The new loan plan and the anti-dumping suit against China and Venezuela should help prices rise next year.

Improved management has been assisted through the approval of Cumaphos for mite and small hive beetle control and the release of three Russian queen lines in 2000. Russian queens were produced and released to queen breeders around the country; additional lines will be available to beekeepers in subsequent years. This has been a very successful program of the USDA Bee Breeding and Physiology Laboratory in conjunction with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry and Louisiana Beekeepers. Reports have been positive for acceptance, colony strength, mite tolerance and honey production. One drawback is producing the proper lines to "fit" the different area requirements so bee population increases coincide with nectar flows. These releases should help the beekeeper management program to reduce the use of pesticides to control the mite pest. The labeling of Cumaphos will help to give the beekeeper an advantage over the small hive beetle, a pest that arrived in 2000 and so far has limited distribution.This pest could put many small beekeepers out of business without good management and early detection.

Hunting Leases
The value of recreational hunting in Louisiana is expressed through the income derived from hunting lease enterprises. The number of producers who leased land in the state during the 2001 hunting season was 5,891. The total amount of land leased was 7,233,514 acres with a gross farm value of $38,527,750. Value-added components for this commodity raised the total value to slightly more than $40.4 million. Hunting leases averaged $5.32 per acre to landowners, with extreme variations in this average, depending on location within the state, habitat quality and species involved. Marshlands in many of the southern parishes leased for $2 to $4 per acre with some waterfowl areas in the Delta regions leasing for $60 to $70 per acre. These high-dollar waterfowl leases involved the leasing of individual blinds for several thousand dollars. White-tailed deer was the major game animal for much of the upland hunting lease activity. In all parts of the state, price per acre lease rates varied according to the habitat conditions and the quantity and quality of the deer herd present. Bottomland hardwood regions tended to bring higher lease rates than equal size tracts of land in the piney woods or pine-upland hardwood regions. Most hunting lease agreements involve the right to hunt all game species within a given area and a given season, although some acreage is leased separately for different species.

PLANT ENTERPRISES
Total farm income for all crop enterprises is $2.4 billion for 2000. Value added is $2.7 billion. Total value of all crop enterprises to the Louisiana economy is $5.1 billion.

COTTON
In 2001, an estimated 2,747 farmers planted 848,738 acres of cotton in Louisiana, an increase of more than 158,000 acres compared to the 2000 crop and a 240,000-acre increase compared to 1999. Lint yield per acre for irrigated land was an estimated 706 pounds, while non-irrigated land had a lint yield of 551 pounds. The estimated on-farm value of the 2001 crop, including seed, was $265,667,666. Cotton is one of the three major row crops grown in Louisiana; the others are sugarcane and rice.

Producers enjoyed good planting conditions. Heavy rains associated with Tropical Storm Allison damaged the developing crop in June. Growing conditions for most of 2001, however, could be described as good. In early August, a record crop was forecast, but final yields were significantly reduced because of severe boll rot conditions following a two-week rainy period in late August and early September. Major problems facing producers in 2001 were heavy rains following planting and before harvest, fiber quality problems (again evident in 2001), high production costs and low prices.

Variety selection remains a critical component of a sound cotton production system. Before selecting varieties, producers should carefully consider variety trial data for yield and quality and the needs of their individual operations. A good yield in the fall starts with planting the best-suited variety in the spring.

FEED GRAIN CROPS
There were 1,711 corn growers, 1,248 grain sorghum producers and 67 oat producers in 2001 for a total of 3,026 feed grain producers. Corn was produced on 301,699 acres with an average yield of 150.6 bushels per acre, a state record. This resulted in a total production of 45.4 million bushels, and an estimated value of $95.7 million to growers. Corn acreage has fluctuated from 300,000 to 700,000 acres in the past 10 years because of prices of feed grains in relation to alternative crops and to weather problems that led to aflatoxin problems at harvest. The past year was an outstanding season for corn. It was planted timely, had few soil moisture problems and relatively few insect and disease outbreaks. When weather conditions began to deteriorate in the early fall, most of the crop had already been harvested. There were no problems with molds that have led to scares from elevator handlers in accepting the crop. Growers tend to remember the most recent year's experience and act accordingly the following season. For this reason, corn production in Louisiana should increase in 2002, in spite of relatively low feed grain prices. Alternative crop outlooks are not very rosy either, so corn acreage could rise to 400,000 this year.

Grain sorghum was planted on 223,687 acres with an average yield of 4,843 pounds per acre. This resulted in a state production of 10.8 million hundredweights valued at $39.5 million. Like corn, this crop fluctuates with price and alternative crop acreage. Soybeans and grain sorghum are usually grown on the more marginal land since investment cost for this crop is also low. Because of the continued low prices for soybeans, an increase was noted in acreage in 2001 of about 17,000 acres. Another factor was that grain sorghum prices were about 97% of those of corn, which made it more attractive to local growers. The season was excellent for grain sorghum. That planted early and harvested before bad weather yielded very well, but that which was still in the field in late August and 

September was damaged severely by wet weather, causing moldy and sprouted grain to be discounted heavily at the elevator. Some fields were abandoned because of the climatic conditions. In spite of this, the average yield was good compared to a normal yield of 3,800 pounds per acre. As long as prices stay low for grains, this crop will have a place on the poorly drained marginal soils, especially in North Louisiana.

Oat production is low in Louisiana, and most is sold locally for feed. Acreage depends on demand, markets and soil moisture at planting time.

FORESTRY
The projected 2001 Louisiana total value of forest products increased slightly from 2000 totals, and gross farm income declined significantly. The 2001 total sawlog harvest decreased by over 255 million board feet (20.9%) to a cut of 1,094,721,202 board feet. The estimated pine sawtimber harvest decreased by 17.8% to a total statewide harvest of 960,600,335. The hardwood sawtimber harvest decreased to 134,120,867 board feet (a 40.4% decrease) in 2001. Pine chip-n-saw harvested in 2001 totaled 868,191 cords, an increase of 27.4% over 2000 totals.

The estimated 2001 Louisiana pulpwood harvest was 4,761,282 cords, down 580,970 cords (11.7%) from 2000's harvest. Pine pulpwood harvest declined 8%, from 3,690,393 cords in 2000 to 3,403,966 cords in 2000. Hardwood pulpwood harvest decreased by 294,543 cords (19.6%), from 1,651,859 cords in 2000 to 1,357,316 in 2001.

Stumpage prices for 2001 were generally weaker for pine products and generally stronger for hardwood products. On average around the state, pine sawtimber prices were 14% lower in 2001 than in 2000; conversely, oak sawtimber prices were 14.3% higher on average around the state in 2001. Statewide average pine pulpwood prices declined 29% in 2001. Hardwood pulpwood prices increased on average 18% around the state in 2001. Chip-n-saw prices declined 16% on average in Louisiana in 2001.

With wood-using industries and commercial timber harvesting activities in all parishes in Louisiana, forestry provides benefits to both urban and rural areas. In 2001, Louisiana's private forest landowners received $519,727,302 from the sale of forest timber, down 24% from $661,331,396 in 2000. Timber harvesting contractors and their employees earned $373,258,751 from harvesting the trees and moving wood to mills. This total was down 8.4% from $405,958,081 in 2000. This income is re-spent many times throughout the economy.

In addition, the 171 Christmas tree growers received $2.5 million from the sale of trees, both wholesale and retail. Louisiana-produced pine straw sales made $326,325 in 2001. Firewood producers generated an estimated $2,700,250 from the sale of firewood. Louisiana forest tree seedling nurseries produced a crop worth $6,466,901 in 2001, up 13% from 2000. The total non-timber forestry-related income was an estimated $12,028,456, up 13.85% from the $10,470,535 generated in 2000.

The payroll and income derived from money generated by the forestry and wood products industry totaled $3.3 billion in 2001, almost exactly what was estimated for 2000. The gross farm income produced by all forestry-related products, such as timber, pine straw, firewood and Christmas trees, totaled $905,014,509.00 in 2000, down significantly (16.71%) from the $1.07 billion generated in 2000. The value added through further processing and delivery was $2,371,138,014, up 7.3% from the 2000 value added of $2,204,238,497.28. The 2001 total forestry value increased slightly (0.6%) from $3,274,257,185 in 2000 to $3,276,152,523.

In general, the decline in values for landowners and loggers reflects significantly lower harvests in hardwood, a result most likely of a return to normal weather patterns after a year of severe drought, which allowed the harvest of previously unreachable hardwood areas. Higher hardwood prices overall helped cushion this negative impact somewhat; however, with average pine stumpage prices decreasing dramatically in 2001, a reduction in gross farm value was to be expected. Despite this, total value remained strong, owing to a stronger value-added multiplier for the year, as calculated by the U.S. Department of Commerce.

FRUIT CROPS
Citrus
The Louisiana citrus industry involves 906 growers who produce 1,400 acres of citrus for a gross farm value of $6.93 million. Louisiana produces navel oranges and satsumas for the fresh market. The Louisiana citrus industry is located in the coastal parishes, with most acreage in Plaquemines Parish. The absence of severe freezes has allowed citrus orchards to develop and reach high yield potentials.

Peaches
 Peaches were grown on 607 acres in 2001, an increase of 5%. Gross farm value of 2001 was $1,439,494, an increase of 17% over 2000. The increase in value is linked to an increase in acreage and yield. All of Louisiana received adequate chilling for peaches for 2001, but some areas did receive a late freeze that damaged some varieties. Overall, there was about a 10% increase in yield per acre in 2001.

Strawberries
 The Louisiana strawberry industry involves 130 growers who grow 387 acres of strawberries for a farm value of $8.5 million. Strawberries are the highest value fruit crop in Louisiana. Most acreage is located in southeast Louisiana. The mild winter of 2000 and 2001 resulted in a good crop of strawberries.
 
Blueberries
 Blueberries were grown on 332 acres in 2001, a decline of 6%. Gross farm value declined in 2001 by 7% to $1,104,468. The primary cause of decrease in gross farm value was the loss of 20 acres of production.

 Mayhaws
 The mayhaw is a native fruit that has long been harvested in the swamps and river bottoms of Louisiana for use in making jelly. A strong interest in growing mayhaws in orchards began 15 years ago. Mayhaws were first listed in this summary in 1995. Native mayhaw harvest is being reported for the first time this year. Ten parishes reported a total of 31,020 pounds. Calcasieu, Grant and LaSalle parishes were the three largest native producers. Mayhaws on 538 native acres and 202 orchard acres produced 143,695 pounds. The gross farm value was $142,495.

 Miscellaneous
Many miscellaneous fruits are planted as either small commercial plantings or as backyard plantings. They include blackberries, figs, muscadine grapes, pears, plums, apples and persimmons. These fruits are planted on 127 acres. Their estimated gross farm value is $201,304.
 
HAY SOLD
Hay production for commercial sales is a limited part of the total hay production in Louisiana. Nevertheless, hay from 200 acres of alfalfa and 222,054 acres of grasslands was sold by more than 3,373 producers in 2001. Yields averaged 2.95 tons per acre from the grasslands harvested for sale and 5 tons per acre from the alfalfa harvested for sale. Production included 655,668 tons of grass hay and 1,000 tons of alfalfa hay. Compared to values reported in 2000, the acreage of grasslands used for commercial hay production increased by 4,000 acres and yields increased by 1 ton per acre. As a result, production of the 2001 hay crop for sale was about 229,000 tons higher than that of the 2000 crop. Gross farm value was $33.29 million, which was 20% higher than that of the 2000 crop.

Hay for all uses was grown on 450,000 acres and produced 2.8 tons per acre, for a total production of 1,260,000 tons. This total production was 90% higher than that reported in 2000. The favorable precipitation received during the growing season of 2001 probably accounted for this dramatic increase.

HOME VEGETABLE GARDENS
The 2001 gross farm value of home vegetable gardens in Louisiana was an estimated $110,488,200. Parish reports indicated 372,094 gardens statewide, reflecting that garden interest was down 9.6% from 2000. Every parish has home gardens; the three metro areas of New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Shreveport have the largest numbers.
  
NURSERY STOCK AND ORNAMENTALS
Commercial nursery crop production had a gross farm gate value of $104,284,341 in 2001. This was a slight decrease from 2000 - primarily contributed to decrease in bedding plant and floricultural crop sales in the spring and summer. A slight surplus of woody ornamental plant material exists. In 2001, fruit and nut trees were valued at $2,580.000, floriculture and bedding plants at $20,134,005, woody ornamentals at $75,442,335 and foliage plants at $6,128,001. With a value added of $53,185,014, the total wholesale value of commercial nursery crop production in Louisiana during 2001 was $157,469,355. Production will continue to increase slightly in 2002 with early predictions of consumer spending on home gardens and landscape to remain steady or slightly strengthen in 2002.

PECANS
The 2001 forecast for the Louisiana pecan crop was for 23 million pounds, which would have been the state's largest pecan crop since 1991. Louisiana harvested only 16.6 million pounds on 28,400 acres. This included 7.2 million pounds of improved pecans and 9.4 million pounds of native pecans. The gross farm value was $8,580,757, a decrease of 8% compared to 2000 gross farm value of $9,349,000 on 10.7 million pounds of pecans. Many pecans were not harvested because wholesale buyers were paying low prices. Some of the large improved pecans were placed in cold storage in hope for better prices next year. In some areas, wholesale prices dropped below 20 cents a pound for native pecans, and wholesale prices dropped below 60 cents a pound for good quality improved pecans.

RICE
Rice acreage in Louisiana increased from 477,936 acres in 2000 to 540,596 acres in 2001. The primary cause of the increase was weather related. Normal rainfall returned to the state following two years of drought, the primary culprit in the acreage decline from 1999 to 2000. This figure remains below the 1999 acreage, which exceeded 640,000 acres. Low commodity prices and uncertain government programs were the leading contributors to this shift.

Average yield per acre was a record 5,915 pounds per acre; this is 354 pounds per acre over the previous record of 5,561 pounds per acre reported in 2000 and 429 pounds per acre over the record set in 1999. The combination of higher yields per acre and more acres resulted in total production of 31,975,568 hundredweights (cwt), an increase of nearly 5.4 million cwt over 2000.

The Louisiana crop harvested by 1,809 producers had a gross farm value of $166,272,958; this is an increase of $13.4 million. Even though acreage increased and yields were at record levels, lower commodity prices suppressed gross farm value. Value added in marketing, processing and transportation increased the value by $49,881,887 for a total value of $216,154,845.

Rice acreage in Louisiana is expected to remain fairly stable depending upon government programs. Most of the southern rice-growing states are experiencing similar situations. The combination of a large U. S. acreage, very good production and weak global economy is expected to cause prices to remain at or drop below current low levels. Overall outlook for the industry rests heavily on whether new farm legislation is passed before the 2002 growing season or the present farm bill is continued.

SOD PRODUCTION
In 2001, 28 sod farms (up by 8) cultivated 4,510 acres of fine turfgrasses. Sod acreage was reported up 5.6%. Gross farm sales were estimated at $15,658,605. About 60% of the sod acreage in Louisiana is centipede grass. The remaining acreage is divided among St. Augustine, bermudas and zoysias, in that order. With new construction improving and Louisiana farms producing good quality sod, our sod markets continue to hold a better price. Markets are expected to improve as construction increases. Marketing is a limiting factor in the industry.

SOYBEANS
Soybeans were grown by 4,476 producers in 2001 on 646,782 acres, the lowest number of producers and acreage since the mid-1960s. Yields per acre were above average at 30.8 and total production was down to 19.9 million bushels. Total gross farm value was $92.7 million, again lower than it has been in about 30 years.

There are several reasons for these declines. Prices continue to hold steady at about loan rate level of $5.26 or lower. A worldwide oversupply of oilseed is the reason. In addition growers have had continued bad luck with weather, resulting in a shift to other crops such as cotton, corn and grain sorghum. Large acreages

have gone into the CRP of USDA, which encourages the removal of marginal lands from production.

The 2001 crop had an outstanding start and would have been a record had it not been for a rainy period in late August and the first two weeks of September, which reduced yields and quality of the late Group IV and early Group V varieties. Still, because of more irrigation and early planting, soybeans did better than the five-year average of 26 bushels per acre.

Major insect and disease problems occurred during the growing season, resulting in poor quality at harvest. This was similar to two years in the mid-1980s when many fields were not harvested because of lack of a market for poor quality beans.

Soybeans will continue to be a viable alternative because of low investment cost and an attractive loan price of $5.26. Should this be lowered, acreage declines will continue until price levels get above $6 per bushel.

SUGARCANE
In 2001, sugarcane was grown on 493,773 acres by 773 producers in 24 Louisiana parishes. An estimated 454,271 acres were harvested for sugar, with a total production of 1,554,965 tons of sugar. Sugar produced per harvested acre was 6,845, and sugar produced per total acre (including acres used for seed) was 6,298 pounds or about the same as reported in 2000. The gross farm value of $377,865,930 for sugar and molasses, as reported in the crop production statistics, is 61% of the total value of the sugar and molasses produced, with the remaining 39% going to processing and marketing.

The total acreage reported in 2001 was about the same as reported in 2000, which had set a new record for the Louisiana sugar industry. Although the state experienced a more normal winter in 2000-2001, the crop was off to another good start in the spring and early summer of 2001. However, during the first week of June as much as 30 inches of rain was reported in the eastern parishes of the Sugar Belt, with the remaining areas receiving 10 inches or more. In those areas receiving the most rainfall, especially St. Mary and Lafourche, water remained over the crop for three weeks or more. Following this, there was a more normal distribution of rainfall although some areas did experience hot and dry conditions during mid to late summer. Pre-crop estimates taken by personnel at the state's 17 mills still predicted a record crop of 16.8 million tons of cane. As a result, most of the mills began the harvest in late September. It was soon realized that the crop was less than estimated, with several mills processing from 10% to 15% less cane than predicted. Possible reasons for the shortfall included overestimation of the crop before harvest, age of the crop (with the new variety LCP 85-384 many producers are keeping older stubble), reduction in yield from early harvest, possible abuse of the chemical ripener glyphosate, adverse weather in earlier years and excessive rainfall in early summer, and the possible negative impact of leaving the residue from the previous harvest on the field. It was obvious that sugarcane growth rates suffered, especially in the heavy clay soils, where floodwaters remained for two or more weeks after the heavy June downpours.

However, for the most part, weather conditions during the harvest were mild and dry, helping to reduce extraneous matter, especially field soil, in mill deliveries. As a result, the yield of commercially recoverable sugar is estimated to be 8% higher in 2001 than in 2000. Further, the first freeze of any consequence did not occur until December 26-27, 2001. A more severe freeze occurred January 3-4, 2002, when the temperature dropped to 22 degrees F. With these freezes, all stalk storage tissue was affected by the freezing conditions that lasted for more than 12 hours on several consecutive nights. Most mills had completed the harvest, so there was minimal loss of sugar. Overall, the 2001 crop was still the second largest crop on record, trailing only the 1999 crop.

Sugar prices rebounded in 2001 when compared to the 2000 crop by about 6%. The price for the 2001 crop should average about $0.1990 per pound net to producer. Molasses prices also rebounded in 2001 and should average about $0.37 per gallon.

SWEET POTATOES
About 24,836 acres of sweet potatoes were planted in Louisiana in 2001. This is an 8% decrease from the 2000 acreage, but 2,000-3,000 acres of the 2001 crop were not harvested because rains in August and September caused the crop to break down in the field. Estimated total marketable yield was 270 bushels per acre.

About 62% of the crop moved through fresh market channels, and 38% went for processing.

The gross farm value is estimated at $62,542,061 for the crop based upon $14 per bushel ($11.20 per box) for number ones and $2.00 per bushel for canners.

COMMERCIAL VEGETABLES
The commercial vegetable industry involves 1,563 growers in 50 parishes who produce 51 different vegetables on 6,821 acres for a gross farm value of $41.3 million. The leading parish in commercial vegetable production is Tangipahoa, with a gross farm value of $5.6 million, followed by Plaquemines with $3.4 million and Bienville and St. Charles with $2.3 million each. Tangipahoa growers produce bell peppers, tomatoes, cucumbers and cabbage for the wholesale markets. Plaquemines and St. Charles growers produce Creole tomatoes and a number of other vegetables for the wholesale and direct market. Bienville produces watermelons for retail markets. By value, Louisiana's major vegetable crops are tomatoes with sales of $13.5 million, mustard greens with $5.9 million, watermelons with $4.8 million and Southern peas with $2.5 million.

The current trend in the Louisiana vegetable industry is to market directly to customers at farmers' markets and roadside stands. The development of several farmers' markets in the state has provided an opportunity for growers to sell their produce directly to the consumer. Prices approach retail level, and there is a lower level of price risk. The production of machine-harvested Southern peas and butter beans has increased in the last several years in Northeast Louisiana. These growers have been successful in marketing shelled peas and beans by direct sales and sales to fruit stands. The acreage of watermelons in Northeast and Central Louisiana increased in 2001. This was because of the location of a large watermelon brokerage firm in the area. Growers meet with varied success in these ventures.

The weather dealt Louisiana growers several blows in 2001. The spring vegetable crop season was severely damaged by heavy rains from tropical storm Allison, and an extended period of rain in late summer hampered the development of fall crops. Bad weather is the major risk factor faced by Louisiana vegetable growers and the main hindrance to expansion of commercial vegetable production in Louisiana.

COMMERCIAL GREENHOUSE VEGETABLES
In 2001, 47 (three fewer) producers grew greenhouse vegetables in 7.4 acres of greenhouse space. Two growers produced cucumbers (one house each); the rest was tomato. The acreage was similar to 2000 estimates. Distribution of the industry was statewide, and sales were to in-state markets. All greenhouse produce is for fresh market sales, and much is sold direct retail by growers. Estimated gross farm value of Louisiana greenhouse vegetables was $2,035,257. A significant expansion (18%) of this industry occurred in 1997 because of its promotion by the LSU AgCenter. Little expansion is expected.

WHEAT
Wheat was harvested from 148,281 acres by 574 producers in 2001. This acreage was a slight decrease from the wheat crop harvested in 2000. Yields for 2001 averaged 56.65 bushels per acre, higher than the 48.81 bushels per acre yield harvested in 2000. Excellent growing conditions and low disease pressure in the spring caused wheat yields to be high in 2001. Total production was 8,400,032 bushels, up slightly from 7,846,116 bushels harvested in 2000. The gross value of the 2001 crop was estimated at $22.68 million, up slightly from the 2000 crop valued at $19.81 million.
 

2001 PROGRESS REPORT
ANIMAL COMMODITIES - 2001

Animal  Gross Farm Income  Value Added Total Value
Cattle & Calves  283,013,109  31,131,442  314,144,551
Milk  97,446,516  53,595,584  151,042,100
Horses  174,358,125  19,179,394  193,537,519
Poultry  493,866,430  474,111,773 967,978,203
Rabbits  1,083,151  102,899  1,186,050
Ostrich/Ratite  15,050 -  15,050
Quail/Pheasant  26,570  -  26,570
Sheep &Goats 2,167,731  195,095  2,362,826
Swine  7,005,872  1,751,468  8,757,340
Exotic Animals  570,400  -  570,400
Total  $1,059,552,954  $580,067,655  $1,639,620,609
 
2001 PROGRESS REPORT
Fisheries and Wildlife Commodities - 2001 
Commodity Gross Farm Income  Value Added Total Value
Aquaculture 125,007,532  81,254,896  206,262,428
Freshwater Fisheries 9,891,034  8,407,379  18,298,413
Marine Fisheries 297,129,812  282,273,321  579,403,133
Fur Animals  346,130  78,917  425,047
Alligators (wild)  5,351,280  2,675,640  8,026,920
Hunting Lease Ent.  38,527,750  1,926,387  40,454,137
Honey 2,049,680  -  2,049,680
Total  $478,303,218  $376,616,540  $854,919,758
 
2001 PROGRESS REPORT
Plant Commodities - 2001