USDA forecasts abundance and high-quality for California walnuts’ 2025-26 season

California walnut enthusiasts are getting ready for a bountiful year. The state’s production is forecast at 710,000 tons, up 18 percent from 2024, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service Objective Measurement Report.

The forecast is based on 365,000 bearing acres, a decline of one percent from the previous year’s 370,000 acres. USDA staff conducted in-field measurements and sampling across major growing regions during July and August to compile the data. 

“After a smaller crop in 2024, the 2025 harvest is forecasted at a moderate size with minimal carry-in, and we don’t anticipate any supply disruptions. Instead, we see a stable, high-quality supply and strong opportunities in global markets,” Robert Verloop, Executive Director and CEO of the California Walnut Board and Commission, told FreshFruitPortal.com.

Combined with virtually being sold out of the 2024 crop, Verlop feels that the industry is well positioned to start shipping immediately, providing "seller and buyer confidence and stable markets.”

Get them while offerings last

Verloop also noted that early evaluations indicate one of the lowest unsold carry-in inventory volumes in recent years. Much of the remaining 2024 crop is expected to be sold in September and October, prior to the start of 2025 harvest shipments.

“Moreover, walnut quality is exceptional, the result of careful farming, ideal spring and summer conditions, and replenished soil moisture, with a consistent nut set,” Verloop adds. 

Harvest of early walnut varieties is set to begin in September and may continue through early November. This year’s crop, the executive says, may very well “exceed the excellent quality we have seen in the last two years.”

“Growers have been opening walnuts and have commented that the walnut kernels are completely filling the shells and have an exceptionally light color for this time of the year,” Verloop explains.

The California Walnut Board and Commission stated it remains focused on expanding long-term demand by implementing programs aimed at increasing consumer consumption frequency and usage occasions.

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