Food & Farm News

» February 15, 2012 «

Farm exports reach a milestone

Exports from American farms surpassed $136 billion dollars last year, breaking the record set in 2010. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that demand for American agriculture continues to soar worldwide. Vilsack added that for every billion dollars in agricultural exports, there are 8,400 American jobs. In total, US farm exports supported more than 1 million jobs last year. Dairy products, California's leading agriculture sector, set its own record of nearly $5 billion in exports. 

World Ag Expo showcases farm technology

The agricultural economy has outpaced the general economy in recent years ... and the business of agricultural commerce centers on Tulare this week during the World Ag Expo. Billed as the largest annual farm equipment show in the world, the expo features more than 1,700 exhibitors. Organizers say they expect nearly 100,000 people to attend the event, to view the latest in farm production technology and services.

Olives contribute to economy

The California table olive segment provides more than 3,500 jobs and generates nearly $500 million, according to an economic impact survey released by the California Olive Committee. This boils down to table olive growers spending $1.4 million each day of the year. Additionally, olive growers and their associated business activities contribute millions to the state in tax revenue. The committee says table olive growers strengthen the economic climate of our state.

Chardonnay winegrapes lead crush count

Last year the chardonnay variety of winegrapes accounted for the largest percentage of crushed grapes in California, with 14 percent of the total volume. According to a preliminary report from the US Agriculture Department, cabernet sauvignon came in second, at 10 percent. While chardonnay as a variety was the most common, red winegrapes ultimately outweighed whites, accounting for more than half of the total 3.3 million tons crushed.  That total is down about three percent when compared with the previous year.