Arizona Forage Producers Association Weblog

Tuesday, June 17, 2003

SAN BERNARDINO ? The value of San Bernardino County's farm production plummeted 11 percent or nearly $72 million last year, in part because of growing urbanization, according to a study by the county's agricultural commissioner.

Also taking a dive is the county's alfalfa acreage, most of which is under cultivation in the High Desert, Gardner said. Some of the alfalfa farms lie in Apple Valley and Hesperia, but the bulk comes from the unincorporated areas such as Oro Grande, Helendale, Hinkley and Newberry Springs.
10:56:02 AM    comment []

"Forages return more money directly to Arizona producers than any other crop, including cotton and produce. The value of all hay alone produced in Arizona was $183 million in 2001(according to USDA figures), about twice value as much as cotton, while farmers themselves realize only a minor portion of the value of the produce crop. The value of our silage crops adds to the Arizona forage total value. And, forage production is increasing! I urge every Arizona forage producer to give this new organization your support with both membership and participation. Go get a neighbor to join up, too. Let's take charge of our futures by defining our products, supporting common objectives and sharing information." -- Lee Banning President

Copyright 2003 Arizona Forage Producers Association