Cereal harvest statistics

20th December 2012

Wet weather in Scotland this year has had an adverse impact on the harvest, the latest figures show.

The Final Estimate of the Cereal and Oilseed Rape Harvest 2012, published today by Scotland’s Chief Statistician, show that cereal production decreased between 2011 and 2012 by 440,000 tonnes (15 per cent).

Rural Affairs Secretary Richard Lochhead said:“This year’s very wet weather has made it a difficult year for cereal and livestock farmers and these figures clearly show that crop yields have suffered as a result.

“While market prices for cereals have shown an increase on last year it is likely that overall returns will be less for many farmers due to additional production costs, including drying costs. That’s why we have prioritised the speedy payment of Single Farm Payments and I hope the arrival of these in bank accounts will provide some welcome relief.

“I have made clear that the government will do all it can to support farmers at this difficult time. That’s why we have taken a range of measures designed to help – including writing to the banks to urge them to show leniency to farmers who have yet to receive their SFP and working to help farmers deal with slurry spreading issues.

“I would also reiterate that we stand willing to do more as we work with key stakeholders to deliver solutions that meet our farmers’ needs.”

Cereal Production decreased between 2011 and 2012 by 441,000 tonnes or 15 percent to 2.5 million tonnes. Areas increased by 11,000 hectares or 2 percent while average yields decreased by 17 percent to 5.5 tonnes per hectare.

Total barley production decreased by 143,000 tonnes or 8 percent to 1.7 million tonnes. This was mostly caused by a decrease in spring barley yields, down 14 percent, despite a 10 percent increase in spring barley area, resulting in a 86,000 tonnes decrease in production. Winter barley production decreased by 57,000 tonnes, due to a 12 percent decrease yield and a 6 percent decrease in area.

Wheat production decreased by 284,000 tonnes or 30 percent to 673,000 tonnes. Areas decreased by 15,000 hectares or 13 percent and average yields decreased by 19 percent to 6.7 tonnes per hectare.

The production of oats decreased by 14,000 tonnes or 11 percent to 108,000 tonnes. This decrease was due to a 9 percent decrease in area, alongside reduction in yield of 18 percent.

Oilseed rape production decreased by 43,000 tonnes or 29 per cent to 106,000 tonnes. This decrease was caused by a 25 percent decrease in yield and a 5 percent decrease in area.