San Luis Obispo County’s total gross crop values for 2012 are estimated at a record breaking value of $ 861,803,000 compared to $ 736,208,000 for 2011. This represents an increase of nearly 18 % in value compared to 2011.
For the second consecutive year, the strawberry industry remained in the top position in overall value in 2012.
The total value of strawberries was over $ 205 million representing 24 % of the combined value of the County’s entire agricultural industry. The pricing for fresh market berries was very strong and increased by 14% over 2011 levels.Over 123,000 tons of strawberries were picked in 2012 from roughly 3,000acres. There was a 2% increase in all berry production.
Wine grapes remained the number two ranked commodity in value in 2012.Production overall rebounded dramatically from the effects of the devastating April, 2011 frost to record breaking levels. Overall, total production increased 31% compared to 2011.
Strong prices and high demand for San Luis Obispo County’s wine grapes set a new record for value at over $197 million.
Wine grape acreage expanded by 3% in 2012,with the majority of new acreage planted in the north county. The county has close to 40,000 wine grape acres compared to 28,000 acres 10 years ago.
During 2012, the beef cattle industry felt the effects of local and nationwide drought conditions. The uncertainty of available grass for grazing due to continued dry conditions locally reduced herd numbers. Lack of grass resulted in reduced animal weight. Drought conditions across the United States increased the demand for locally raised beef cattle , creating strong prices.
Favorable weather conditions in 2012 led to increased yields for avocado, lemon and orange growers.Total production for avocados increased by 103% and lemons increased by 42%. However, price per ton for avocados and lemons fell by 48% and 54% respectively. The county has just under 5000 acres of avocados.
Orange growers produced 73 % more fruit over 2011 levels and saw very strong prices.
Fairly mild weather conditions during 2012 had variable effects on vegetable production. Overall, the value increased 17% over 2011. Consisting of primarily annual crops, this agricultural sector tends to be speculative on assessing future customer demands with growers making adjustments from year to year on what is grown.
Napa cabbage production increased by 41% and production of edible pod peas increased by 70% compared to 2011. Labor shortages had an impact on the vegetable industry in 2012. Broccoli is the most grown vegie at nearly 10,000 acres.
Nurseries Bouncing Back
The nursery stock industry remained relatively stable, with overall values declining only 1%. Indoor decorative production decreased and the value dropped 17% from 2011. Increased production, solid prices and improved demand for outdoor ornamental plants resulted in a sharp increase of 82% in value compared to 2011. Bedding plants, sod and ground cover plants increased by 7% in value over 2011. For the first time in several years, nursery stock producers are beginning to expand production.