Fresno County, in a remarkable display of agricultural resilience, has reported an unprecedented $8.6 billion in crop value for 2023, with grapes leading the charge for the second consecutive year, overtaking almonds. Melissa Cregan, the county's ag commissioner, highlighted the county's role in delivering top-tier food and fiber products to over 90 countries globally, despite the fluctuating fortunes of individual commodities.
The anticipation builds as Kern and Tulare counties have yet to release their crop reports, leaving the ag community waiting to see which county will emerge as the leading agricultural powerhouse in the United States. Fresno County's agricultural sector witnessed a robust 6.1% increase in value from 2022, with grapes reclaiming their premier position. The surge in table grape values, nearly $100 million to $743.8 million, compensated for the decline in wine grape values, despite a decrease in acreage.
Almonds faced valuation below $1 billion for the first time in years, though byproduct sales nudged the total just over the billion mark. Challenges such as high water costs and falling market values have impacted almond growers, with notable entities like Trinitas Farming LLC declaring bankruptcy.
Despite these hurdles, the almond sector managed to maintain its ground with a slight increase in acreage and price per ton from 2022, bringing its valuation to just under $950 million, with byproducts tipping it over $1 billion. Pistachios saw a significant 25% increase in value to $861 million, thanks to expanded acreage and strong production, despite an initial dip in prices. Other noteworthy performers include blueberries, with a 42% increase in crop values, and cherries, whose production nearly tripled, elevating their value by 173% to $95.9 million.
Source: GV Wire