Sonoma County Sees an 18.8 Percent Increase in Total Value of Agricultural

The total value of agricultural crops grown in Sonoma County last year was nearly $950 million, according to the 2023 Sonoma County Crop Report, which the Department of Agriculture, Weights & Measures presented to the Board of Supervisors today. The annual accounting of local agricultural commodity production and gross values, based on a survey of more than 1,000 Sonoma County producers, showed the total value was $945,722,700, which represents an 18.8 percent increase over the 2022 value of $796 million.  

The report reflects gross production values and does not account for costs involved with production, processing, and bringing the commodity to market. The report also does not include net farm income. Rather the figure is intended for community use in economic development, tourism activities, financing, and identifying historical trends in local agricultural production.    

“In 2023, our agriculture community faced flooding, crop damage and an avian flu outbreak that devastated producers, their employees and support industries countywide,” said Supervisor David Rabbitt, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “In spite of those challenges, the 2023 report highlights the commitment and resilience of our local farmers and ranchers who continue to make Sonoma County a diverse and thriving agricultural industry.”  

Highlights from the 2023 Sonoma County Crop Report include: 

• The average winegrape value per ton increased to $2,975.12 in 2023 from $2,869.62 a year earlier. Total winegrape value was $716,818,600, a 30.88 percent increase compared to 2022. Overall winegrape tonnage was 240,937.7 tons, an increase of 26.23 percent from 2022.  
• Apple tonnage brought to market increased by 18.7 percent from 2022. Gravenstein prices per ton decreased by 5.61 percent from 2022 due to a lack of demand for processed apples. Overall, the value of apples increased by 11.1 percent compared to 2022.  
• Livestock and poultry product value decreased 7.26 percent compared to 2022 due to a 16.3 percent decrease in organic milk production, and 11.3 percent decrease in the price per hundredweight of conventional milk. Wool production increased by 162 percent and miscellaneous poultry products increased 3.19 percent compared to 2022. 
• Nursery product values decreased 2 percent from 2022. While the value of bedding plants and ornamentals continued to rise, values for cut flowers decreased 12.4 percent, and the value of miscellaneous products such as grapevines, fruit and nut trees, and succulents declined 20.6 percent. Christmas trees saw another decrease in 2023 of 6.4 percent compared to 2022. 
• Cannabis cultivation acreage totaled 13.65 acres in 2023 with a total value of $25,735,400. These numbers are down from 19.38 acres and $54,129,375, respectively, from 2022. The total value includes outdoor, indoor, and mixed-light cultivation, as well as nursery product values. 

The 2023 Crop Report highlights Climate-Smart Agriculture in Sonoma and Marin counties and the partnerships between growers, conservation organizations, and government agencies to combat climate change and enhance food security. This work further highlights that agricultural practitioners are some of the first innovators and adopters of climate resilient practices and efficient management of resources. Adaptability is central to the sustainability of agriculture in Sonoma and Marin counties. The 2023 report also includes a summary of accomplishments for the county’s Agriculture, Land Stewardship, and Weights & Measures divisions within the department.  

Data on non-agricultural crops, such as commercial fish landings and timber harvests are also included from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Tax and Fee Administration. Information regarding cannabis production in Sonoma County is attached to the report as an addendum. 

The Sonoma County Agricultural Commissioner is required by state law to annually compile and report crop and livestock statistics, as well as pest exclusion, management, and eradication activities to the Board of Supervisors and the Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture. Sonoma County has produced an annual crop and livestock report since 1928.