Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner
Henry Gonzales announced in late June of 2018 that the economic value of Monterey
County agriculture increased by 4% in 2017, compared with 2016, with crop
production values of $4.4 billion. Several of Monterey County’s top crops that
include leaf lettuce, head lettuce, broccoli and cauliflower increased between
5% and 8%. Greater fresh strawberry production brought lower prices resulting
in a 4% drop in value, and foreign competition contributed to significantly
decreased freezer strawberry values. Large swings were
noted in some smaller vegetable crops such as Napa cabbage, parsley and peppers
that dropped 20% to 52%, while the value of artichokes, blackberries, chard,
kale, leeks, onions, and peas increased 35% to 174%. Livestock increased 26% as
ranchers restocked herds and forage production increased with the rainfall. Gonzales
also noted that Monterey County ag production has approached or exceeded $4
billion in 8 of the last 9 years. The crop report was released at a public
briefing at the Ag Center Conference Room in Salinas. More information about
this report can be found online at:
www.ag.co.monterey.ca.us/.
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