Cost Studies Available for Organic and Conventional Processing Apples

The University of California released two new cost studies to help growers estimate costs and potential returns for both organically and conventionally produced processing apples. “These studies provide growers with a baseline to estimate their own costs, which can help when applying for production loans, projecting labor costs, securing market arrangements, or understanding costs associated with water and nutrient management and regulatory programs,” said Brittney Goodrich, UC Cooperative Extension specialist and co-author of the studies. The free, online cost studies model a management scenario for a 100-acre farm, 20 acres of which are planted to a mature orchard that produces apples for processing. The studies describe the cultural practices used for organically or conventionally produced apples, including land preparation, soil fertility, pest management, irrigation, and labor needs.
Related ATTRA publication: Understanding Organic Pricing and Costs of Production