Santa Clara County Farms Grew $371.5M In Crops Last Year

SANTA CLARA COUNTY, CA — Silicon Valley's agricultural sector enjoyed a fertile 2023 despite a few setbacks with some crops, according to new data from Santa Clara County.

The annual crop report found nursery crops held their crown in the top spot, gaining another 11 percent in value to account for $128 million of the $371.5 million generated by the entire agricultural output. The overall value of the county's agricultural products rose by 3.5 percent.

"Our agricultural reach is global," Sylvia Arenas, the District 1 Supervisor, said in a statement. "It is Santa Clara County's residents and farmworkers who are feeding not just local families, but families throughout the world."

Despite shedding some value after one farm closed, mushrooms held their second-place spot in the rankings, according to the report. Lettuce saw the biggest surge in value, soaring by 68 percent, generating $34.5 million and ranking third. County officials credited restaurant dining returning to pre-pandemic levels creating much stronger demand for the leafy greens.

On the flip side, last year's cherry crops took a big hit from heavy spring rains, shedding 41.5 percent of their value and finishing out the year at $4.35 million.

>> Readers can learn more about the report on the Division of Agriculture's website.