Introduction to San Diego County Agriculture Economic Impact In 1992, San Diego County ranked 8th in agricultural economic impact among California counties and 10th in all U.S. counties. San Diego county agriculture is a billion dollar a year industry. U. C. Berkeley Agricultural Economists evaluated the impact of San Diego's agriculture to the county economy in 1985. Their findings showed that: 1) San Diego County agriculture created over 23,500 full time equivalent jobs; 2) San Diego agriculture generated 475.4 million dollars of personal income; and 3) San Diego's agricultural output generated over 1.33 billion dollars in the economy. Diversity In addition to the economic benefits of flower, plant, fruit, vegetable, and livestock production, San Diegans enjoy the green belts that are preserved by agricultural enterprises. The unique climate found in San Diego County makes it a world center for agricultural diversity. Nowhere else do people enjoy the year-round variety and quality of San Diego's locally grown ag products. Technological Innovation University of California researchers working with progressive local growers in this unique setting have made San Diego County a center for agricultural technology as well as production diversity. The commercial use of drip irrigation systems was pioneered in San Diego and the largest producers of drip irrigation systems are headquartered here. County agriculture has gained the title as the most efficient agricultural water user in the United States. The use of plastics for crop protection also developed in response to San Diego agriculture's needs and is another example of a special local technology which has spread throughout the country.

Future Prospects Agriculture is not dying in San Diego County but is changing from an industry based on the production of a few major commodities for interstate trade to a diversified and responsive industry serving local needs as well as interstate and international markets. San Diego agriculture is struggling to respond to changing markets, local needs, urbanization, rising water costs, and difficult competition from Mexico and Florida. With support and understanding from San Diego's residents and government, agriculture can continue to be a vital part of San Diego County's economic base, diversity, and charm.

Office Information
San Diego County
5555 Overland Ave.
Suite 4101, Bldg 4
San Diego, CA 92123-1219
Phone: (858) 694-2845
Fax: (858) 694-2849
Email: cesandiego@ucdavis.edu

County Director: Terrell P. Salmon PhD