Source: USDA'S NASS NC FIELD OFFICE, 3/31/17


“The USDA’s Prospective Plantings release out today is the first survey-based estimates of NC farmers’ planting intentions for the year,” said Dee Webb, North Carolina State Statistician. “The March Agricultural Survey provided the factual data that underpins these projections, making it one of the most important surveys we conduct each year. Grower’s responses, provided essential information that helped determine prospective production and the potential supply of major commodities for 2017. This information will allow NC farmers to make informed business decisions for the upcoming growing season.” 

• Corn plantings are expected to total 950,000 acres in 2017, down 5% from 2016.

• Cotton growers intend to plant 340,000 acres in 2017, up 21% from last year. • Flue-cured tobacco growers expect to harvest 160,000 acres in 2017, down 3% from 2016.  

• Soybean plantings, expected to total 1,750 acres in 2017, up 4% from 2016.

• Peanut growers intend to plant 110,000 acres in 2017, up 9% from 2016.

• Sweet potato growers intend to plant 90,000 acres, down 8% from last year.

• Winter wheat plantings totaled 460,000 acres, up 10% from last year.  

For the full report, click here.