California agricultural reports show rising crop values in 2025

Agricultural reports for Santa Cruz County and Kern County in California show significant increases in crop values for 2025.

In Santa Cruz County, the strawberry crop value rose 27% to approximately US$279 million, up from US$218 million in 2024. Agricultural Commissioner David Sanford attributed this growth to expanded acreage, higher yields, and increased prices per ton. While strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry crops combined for nearly US$500 million, raspberry values saw a decline. The total value of all agricultural commodities in the county reached US$762.9 million.

Kern County reported a 12% increase in total agricultural commodity value, reaching $8.93 billion in 2025, despite a 4% decrease in harvested farmland. The top five commodities—pistachios, grapes, citrus, almonds, and carrots—each exceeded $1 billion in value. Pistachios and grapes were the highest-valued crops, both nearing $1.4 billion. Mexico remained the leading export destination for Kern County commodities.