Information from the California Agricultural Resource Directory

http://www.cdfa.ca.gov/statistics/

AN OVERVIEW OF CALIFORNIA AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION STATISTICS

California’s agricultural sector gained a record 15 percent in the sales value of its products in 2007. Milk remained the No. 1 farm commodity, with a major recovery in 2007 compared to the depressed milk prices from a year earlier. The Golden State retained its ranking as the nation’s leading dairy producer by a wide margin, producing 22 percent of the U.S. milk supply.

California’s agricultural abundance includes 400 different commodities. Among these, the state produces about half of U.S.-grown fruits, nuts and vegetables.

California has 75,000 farms and ranches –– less than 4 percent of the nation’s total. Yet, the Caalifornia’s agricultural production represents 12.8 percent of the nation’s total value. California’s top 20 crop and livestock commodities accounted for more than $30 billion in value. Each of the top 10 commodities exceeded $1 billion in value. A combination of stronger prices and higher production resulted in nine of the 10 commodities registering an increase in value over 2006.

California’s agricultural exports reached an all-time high of $10.9 billion in 2007. This represents an 11 percent increase from 2006. In addition, 28 percent of California’s agricultural production was shipped to overseas markets.

It is the quality, freshness and unparalleled flavor of California’s food products that makes California’s agricultural exports enjoyed around the world. With key international markets in Europe, Asia and North America, California agriculture is a “taste of sunshine” enjoyed by millions.

Additional information available from the University of California Agricultural Issues Center

http://aic.ucdavis.edu/