Columbia, S.C., July 12, 2004: Based on July 1 conditions, SOUTH CAROLINA'S 2004 production for tobacco is expected to be down, while wheat is expected to be up from last year, according to the USDA NASS South Carolina Statistical Office.

This year's WHEAT production is estimated at 8.46 million bushels - up 17 percent from last year, and up 34 percent from 2002. The acreage harvested for grain, at 180,000, is 5,000 acres below a year ago. This year's average yield per acre of 47 bushels is up 8 bushels from 2003 and up 10 bushels from 2002.

The first TOBACCO forecast of the season places 2004 production at 59.4 million pounds - down 6 percent from last year. Harvested acres, at 27,000, are down 3,000 acres from last year. The July 1 yield forecast at 2,200 pounds is up 100 pounds from a year ago and up 250 pounds from 2002.

For additional information call:

Robert A. Graham, Director

James S. Peele, Agricultural Statistician