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VENTURA — On Tuesday, June 24, the County of Ventura’s Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures presented its 2024 Crop and Livestock Report to the Board of Supervisors, highlighting a strong year for local agriculture. The report shows Ventura County’s total agricultural production reached a gross value of $2.31 billion, a 7% increase from 2023.
“The 2024 Crop and Livestock Report focuses on the history of Ventura County’s top 10 crops and the issues that farmers face today in cultivating these crops,” stated Korinne Bell, Ventura County Agricultural Commissioner. “Ventura County is unique in that our agricultural community cultivates a significant number of crops with values well over $1 million. This allows for a wide range of products to be cultivated but also presents some substantial challenges for our farmers. Many thanks to the Ventura County agricultural community – growers, packers, and shippers – for providing the data on their efforts in 2024 and making the production of this report possible.”
The top 10 Crops for 2024 were:
- Strawberries
- Avocados
- Nursery Stock
- Celery
- Raspberries
- Lemons
- Peppers
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Tomatoes
Strawberries once again lead as the county’s top crop. Notably, avocados saw a significant jump, climbing to the second spot with a 170% increase in value. Ventura County ranks first in the state for avocado production value. The county as a whole ranks 10th statewide in total agricultural value and continues to be California’s top producer in commodity value for lemons, avocados, raspberries, and parsley.
Beyond crop values, the report includes updates on the challenges that growers faced as Ventura County grappled with the impact of natural disasters such as significant heat waves and the devastating Mountain Fire, which caused an estimated $9 million in damages to the agricultural sector. As well, the report highlights agricultural exports, the work done by the department around pest control, and regulations by the Weights & Measures team.
Since 1895, the Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures has partnered with local growers, residents, and state agencies to support safe, sustainable agriculture. Its work includes pesticide safety, export certification, quality control, and pest prevention—ensuring that Ventura County remains a leader in agricultural production.
For more information and to view the full 2024 Crop and Livestock Report, visit: https://awm.venturacounty.gov/crop-reports/