Business & Tech
Marin Agricultural Production Declines For 3rd Consecutive Year
The annual report charted the largest percentage drop in agricultural output in three years.
MARIN COUNTY, CA — The value of Marin County's agricultural output fell for the third consecutive year in 2023, down 9% to $85.3 million, according to an annual crop and livestock report Tuesday.
It was the biggest percentage drop in three years. Output fell 3% in 2022, and 5% in 2021, county records show.
Since 2020, the gross value of agricultural crops and commodities has declined 17% or $16.8 million, from $101.8 million, according to the Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures.
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The 2023 report found poultry has become the county's leading commodity, up 5% to $24.6 million. Driving the growth was a national egg shortage tied to avian influenza, which pushed local prices higher, the department said.
Organic milk, which the department termed "historically a cornerstone of Marin's agricultural economy," fell 32% to $21.9 million. Although the number of organic dairies held steady, production decreased by 25%, along with a decline in prices, the department said.
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Cattle, ranking third in value, slide 1% to $14.8 million. Aquaculture rose 2% to $6.1 million, while fruits and vegetables fell 7% to $3.2 million, primarily due to reduced harvested acreage. Sheep values fell 25% to $2.2 million.
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