Wisconsin's Chart Terry Production Decreases in 2023

Thursday, May 9th, 2024 -- 8:00 AM

(Blake Jackson, Wisconsin Ag Connection) A recent report by the USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service indicates a decrease in Wisconsin's tart cherry production for 2023.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag Connection, the state's tart cherry output totaled 10.0 million pounds, reflecting a 19% decline compared to 2022 levels. This decrease can be attributed to two key factors.

While the area dedicated to tart cherry production (bearing acreage) remained consistent at 1,700 acres, the average yield per acre saw a significant drop of 1,420 pounds, reaching 5,880 pounds in 2023.

The average price of tart cherries in Wisconsin also experienced a slight decline in 2023, settling at 18.8 cents per pound compared to 20.4 cents per pound in the previous year. This, combined with the lower yield, resulted in a total value of $1.82 million for Wisconsin's utilized tart cherry crop in 2023.

It's worth noting that this decline wasn't unique to Wisconsin. National tart cherry production also dipped slightly in 2023, reaching 200.2 million pounds compared to 241.6 million pounds in 2022.

Michigan, the nation's leading producer, mirrored Wisconsin's downward trend, while Utah's production remained relatively stable.

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