The 415 Marin ag production dropst like an egg M arin County’s agricultural industry struggled to reap rewards in 2023, as the total gross value of all agricultural production dipped 9% to $85.3 million—a decline
which reflects ongoing impacts of climate variability and market fluctuations, according to a newly released report. The latest figures were highlighted in the 2023 Marin County Crop & Livestock Report, and presented to the county Board of Supervisors on Aug. 20 by staff from the Department of Agriculture / Weights & Measures. Despite the overall decrease in ag production, poultry emerged as the
county’s leading commodity for the first time in years, valued at $24.6 million—a 5% increase from the previous year. “The increase
was driven by a national egg shortage tied to avian influenza, which pushed local prices higher,” according to a press release from the County of Marin. Organic milk, typically the most stable of Marin’s agricultural economy, saw its value drop sharply by 32% to $21.9 million, according to the report. While the number of organic dairies remained steady, production decreased by 25%, accompanied by a decline in prices. Joe Deviney, agricultural commissioner of Marin, said the price of cattle last year was the highest in recent memory. “With three years of drought in a row, and elevated feed prices, ranchers needed to reduce their herd size,” Deviney said in the release. “The smaller inventory in the west produced an elevated price, but it was a very needed change for them. Local dairies continue to face numerous challenges, and I’m hopeful they will survive through the uncertainties ahead.” Cattle, which the report ranked third in value, experienced a slight decline of 1%, totaling $14.8 million. In a positive trend, pasture value increased by 19% to $8.8 million—it was “bolstered by favorable winter precipitation that helped rejuvenate grazing lands after years of drought,” the release said. Aquaculture also saw a modest 2% increase, bringing its value to $6.1 million, while fruits and vegetables fell 7% to $3.2 million, primarily due to reduced harvested acreage. Sheep values took a notable hit, decreasing by 25% to $2.2 million. In a county not known for its wine industry—at last compared to neighboring Napa and Sonoma counties—Marin saw a resurgence in the value of wine grapes, which climbed 11% to $919,000 despite fewer harvested acres, thanks to an increase in the value per ton. The report also marked the end of a three-year drought, thanks to substantial winter precipitation in 2023. The full 2023 Marin County Crop & Livestock Report, along with previous reports, is available at marincounty.org.— JW The total value of Marin County organic milk production dropped 32% in 2023.
14 NorthBaybiz
September 2024
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