Why is This Important?

Local agriculture can provide important economic, environmental, and social benefi ts to a community. For every dollar of agricultural production in the county, 3.5 dollars of economic activity are created. Locally-grown food maintains its freshness and nutritional value and may reduce transportationrelated air pollution and costs. The cultivation and use of native species in landscaping may reduce the need for outdoor irrigation, the largest non-industrial use of water in the county. Adoption of organic farming and landscaping practices is especially important because it reduces the harmful environmental and health effects of pesticides and protects long-term soil quality.

What is a Sustainable State?

A sustainable state is one where agriculture is economically viable for both owners and laborers, and agricultural practices conserve natural resources and biodiversity, maintain healthy soils and ecosystems, and provide food security for local communities.

How Are We Doing?

• According to the San Mateo County: 2008 Agricultural Crop Report, the total gross production value of San Mateo County agriculture in 2008 was $162.7 million, which is
a 5.9 percent decrease from 2007 ($172.9 million) in real dollars. In infl ation adjusted dollars, total production value has decreased over 31 percent since 1999, reflecting a small loss of total farmland (35,509 acres in 2001 to 34,640 acres in 2008) and reduced agricultural activity in the county.

• Floral and nursery crops generated 83 percent of the county's crop production value (about $135 million) making San Mateo County one of the largest producers of ornamental nursery crops and cut fl owers in the state. Other significant production consisted of vegetable crops (13 percent), with the balance of production coming from forest products, livestock, and fruit and nut crops.

• According to the California Employment Development Department, total farm employment in San Mateo County is 1,900. Farm employment has been generally stable over the last four years, though it has decreased 35 percent since 1999.
• The total number of certifi ed farmer's markets in San Mateo County is 16. Ten of the markets accept WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) Supplemental Food coupons and
Senior Nutrition Checks.
• In 2008, there were 13 farms (up from 8 in 2004) totaling 193 acres devoted to organic farming production.