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Lower volume at the auction so far, thanks to summer rains and heat

VINELAND, NJ — Rain and heat during the summer have cut into volume in southern New Jersey, a scenario that has been reflected at the Vineland Produce Auction, here.

“Volume is lower [so far this summer] because of the weather,” the auction’s Carol DeFoor told The Produce News on a bright and sunny Thursday morning, Aug. 15. “As of now, volume is down about 20 percent from last year.” She added, “Dollar-wise, prices are higher because volume is less.”

A late start to New Jersey’s 2014 produce season — due to a cold and rainy late winter and spring — has also contributed to the reduced overall produce volume.

“It’s been a consistent problem all year,” she said. “The rain, then the heat, so it’s just a vicious cycle.”

Nevertheless, DeFoor was optimistic as the state’s fall season was on the horizon. “Lettuces are starting to come in, some escarole, some arugula, some cabbage. Peppers are strong. We look for a strong fall.”

Barring an early, severe frost, the auction’s season traditionally runs well into the fall. “We went to November 30 last year,” she noted. “We could go that late this year.”

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