Chapter 11: The Agricultural Core

The Agricultual Core is comprised of several small towns and farm landscape ranging from the Great Lakes to the Great Plains.  Sections of the agricultural core overlap into the previously discussed manufacturing core in the United States.  It is divided into the two sections: the interior western plain and the interior eastern plain.  The eastern interior plain is noted as receiving more precipitation and more humidity than it's counterpart.  The western interior plain is dry, comprised of mostly grassland, and has a sense of vast openness.  Due to the presence of rich soil and expansive farmland, this area is ideal for the harvesting of various crops and raising livestock.  Wheat, corn, and soybeans are three examples of the crops grown in this section of America.  Though many individuals may be unaware of this, San Diego actually is home to a thriving agricultural industry!  It ranks 4th in it's own county and 10th in the nation in terms of the value of agricultural products sold...

Farmland in Minnesota

 Agriculture in San Diego? Yes, it's not all beaches!

Surprisingly San Diego is home to 6,565 small family farms, 65% of which are nine acres or less in size.  Here are a few facts about the agricultural arena in California's most southern city...

• Despite the poor soil found in this area, farms located in San Diego are quite prosperous.  The terrain is characteristically steep and the soil in this area is erodible.  Only 6% of the soil is considered to be prime in San Diego but the crops still seem to thrive (sd.county.ca.gov).
• The water used for farming in San Diego is extremely expensive.  Many farmers have to rely on imported water from the Colorado River and Northern California which can be pricey.  As a result, farmers in San Diego are notorious for their low-use irrigation methods.
• The temperate climate in San Diego is idealistic for growing crops.  In some parts of the county, the growing season is year-long.  This weather is perfect for sustaining indoor nurseries because it keeps the cooling and heating prices down.  Various fruit crops such as avocados, strawberries, oranges, and apples also thrive in this environment.   

Apple Tree

Avocado Tree

Plant Nursery in San Diego

Some More Stats...

• #1 county in the nation for value of floricultural, nursery, greenhouse and sod products
• #1 county in the nation in small (under 10 acres) farms (5,899 California farms have 49 or fewer acres, 65 percent of which are nine or fewer acres)
• Ranks #1 in the nation in production of avocados and mushrooms
• Ranks #9 in the nation for grapefruit
• Ranks #8 in the nation for strawberries