![Mandarin Objective Measurement Survey](https://i0.wp.com/agnetwest.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/12-31-mandarin.jpg?resize=253%2C203&ssl=1)
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service conducted the Mandarin Objective Measurement Survey for the first time this year, getting a baseline for California production. Because it is a new survey, a production forecast will be not be made for at least three years. But the numbers indicate a strong industry thus far. Initial results show an average fruit set of 945 fruit per tree and an average fruit size of 1.49 inches in diameter.
![casey](https://i0.wp.com/agnetwest.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Casey-Creamer-CCM.jpg?resize=148%2C148&ssl=1)
Courtesy California Citrus Mutual
“I think it’s mainly the couple thousand additional acres that have come onboard in the last two years and then a decent crop size this year. Last year was down, the year before was up. So, with the alternate years we think we’ve got a little bit heavier crop this year,” President and CEO of California Citrus Mutual, Casey Creamer explained in relation to increasing mandarin numbers. “It’s a popular variety. It’s a good healthy snack for a lot of people and it’s going to continue to enjoy increases we believe.
Listen to the radio report below.