FOLSOM, CA - The USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) released the official 2025 California Walnut Industry Objective Measurement Report on Wednesday, September 4, 2025. The 2025 California walnut production is forecasted at 710,000 tons (644,101 MT), up 18% from 2024’s production of 603,000 tons (547,032 MT). The forecast is based on 365,000 bearing acres, down 1% from 2024’s estimated bearing acreage of 370,000 acres.
The September 4th announcement from NASS provides the industry with an objective crop volume estimate. Using scientific methodologies, USDA field staff counted, measured, weighed, and evaluated thousands of walnuts from major growing regions in July and August for use in a statistical acreage model to establish the annual walnut crop estimate.
In addition to the updated crop estimate, the California walnut industry is nearing the close-out of the 2024 crop year. Early evaluations are encouraging, suggesting it will be one of the lowest unsold carry-in inventory volumes the industry has seen in years, and much of this inventory will be sold in September and October before the new harvest is ready to ship.
“The estimate of 710,000 tons is in line with what the industry was projecting,” said Robert Verloop, Executive Director and CEO of the California Walnut Board and Commission, in the recent release. “Combined with virtually being sold out of the 2024 crop, the industry is well positioned to start shipping new harvest California walnuts immediately, providing seller and buyer confidence and stable markets.”
“Moreover, walnut quality is exceptional, the result of careful farming, ideal spring and summer conditions, and replenished soil moisture, with a consistent nut set. 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. This crop may exceed the excellent quality we have seen in the last two years. I think international markets will be very pleased.”
Harvest begins in September with early varieties and may extend into early November, harvesting the crop at its peak quality and full development.
The California walnut industry foresees a promising season ahead. The California Walnut Board and Commission continues its focus to build long-term demand and increase sales for California walnuts by implementing programs that drive consumers to eat more walnuts, more often, and in more ways. With a strong commitment to delivering excellent quality, the highest food safety standards, consumer appeal, and a reliable supply, California walnuts are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of the global market — today and into the future.
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California Walnut Commission
The California Walnut Board was established in 1948 to represent the walnut growers and handlers of California. The Board…
