Monterey County crop values hit record high for four years straight

UPDATE 6/28/2016 6:15 PM: A banner year for Monterey County’s agriculture industry, as crop values hit a record high for a fourth year in a row. 2015 production values topped $4.84 billion, up nearly $350 million from 2014, a 7.75 increase. 29 commodities increased in value, while 22 saw a decrease.

Leaf lettuce remained the top crop of 2015 with an estimated value of $869 million. Strawberries stayed at number two, with an estimated value of $861 million. Experts say the 21 percent increase in value was because of more strawberry acreage and higher production. Despite a two percent decline, head lettuce remained third with a value of $637 million. Broccoli and nursery crops round out the top five.

Wine grapes dropped from number 6 to number 8. Agricultural commissioner Eric Lauritzen said it is part of a statewide trend after above-average production in recent years. It’s in sort of a balancing act right now.

During a news conference to release the report on Tuesday, Lauritzen didn’t just focus on the numbers, rather the people behind the food – the Ambassadors of agriculture whose value can’t be weighed.

“The farmers markets provide a personal link between agriculture and the consumer, which is more important than ever now,” Lauritzen said. “I believe the importance of this unique relationship can’t be measured in dollars. It’s really invaluable.”

Catherine Barr, the executive director of Monterey Bay Certified Farmers Markets said people are hungry for knowledge, wanting to know about ag accountability.

“The consumer has gotten really educated as far as where their food is coming from, so you will see an increase in not only farmer’s markets, but the consumer going to the farmer’s market,” Barr said. “It’s better than going to the grocery store.”

Stevie Hall sells more than two thirds of his organic produce at farmers markets across the Central Coast and the Bay Area. He said he likes the feedback he gets about his food.

“I feel when I go to farmer’s markets, I feel a lot more valued as a farmer,” Hal said. “I get to connect with the consumer and basically have an eye to eye connection with the people that are eating my produce.”

A big question for industry experts is how will Brexit affect the area’s economy. Industry experts say not much. The European Union is the county’s seven largest exporter. Very little produce actually goes to Great Britain. However, there could be a drop in wine sales. According to the Monterey County Vintners and Growers Association, while the British may continue buying, they’re looking at less expensive options.

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ORIGINAL POST:

On Tuesday, the Monterey County Agricultural Commissioner announced crop values have hit a record high for the fourth year in a row in the Salinas Valley.

Commissioner Eric Lauritzen said 2015 crop production values stand at $4.84 billion dollars, up $348 million from last year.

Leaf lettuce remains the top crop, followed by strawberries. Head lettuce and wine grape crops have declined. The report also highlights the growing popularity of certified farmers markets.

KION’s Mariana Hicks will have more on this story at 5 & 6.