UC studies examine costs for growing pears, walnuts, winegrapes
Analysis for each crop is based upon hypothetical farm operations using practices common in the region. Input and reviews were provided by UC Cooperative Extension farm advisors, researchers, growers, farm accountants, pest control advisers, consultants and other agricultural associates.
The studies describe the assumptions used to identify current costs for the individual crops, material inputs, cash and non-cash overhead. A ranging analysis table shows profits over a range of prices and yields. Other tables show the monthly cash costs, the costs and returns per acre, hourly equipment costs and the whole farm annual equipment, investment and business overhead costs.
The four new cost studies are the following:
- Sample Costs to Establish and Produce Pears, 2012, North Coast, by Rachel B. Elkins, Karen M. Klonsky and Kabir P. Tumber.
- Sample Costs to Produce Organic Pears, 2012, Sacramento Valley, by Chuck A. Ingels and Karen M. Klonsky.
- Sample Costs to Establish a Walnut Orchard and Produce Walnuts, 2012, North Coast, by Rachel B. Elkins, Karen M. Klonsky and Kabir P. Tumber.
- Sample Costs to Establish a Vineyard and Produce Winegrapes (Cabernet Sauvignon), 2012, San Joaquin Valley North, by Paul S. Verdegaal, Karen M. Klonsky and Richard L. De Moura.
These cost studies and cost of production studies for other crops are available online at http://coststudies.ucdavis.edu, at UC Cooperative Extension offices and by calling (530) 752-3589. For more information about the studies, contact Richard De Moura at rdemoura@ucdavis.edu in the UC Davis Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics.