The Valley’s Agricultural Edge: Nature and Know-How
In a recent interview with Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter,” Ryan Jacobsen, CEO of the Fresno County Farm Bureau, weighed in on the state of California agriculture. When asked if California is in “crisis mode,” Jacobsen offered a nuanced perspective, emphasizing both the blessings and challenges facing the state’s agricultural heartland.
Jacobsen pointed to the Central Valley’s unique combination of natural resources—fertile soil, abundant sunshine, and access to water—paired with hardworking people, which has transformed the region into a global agricultural powerhouse. “We have God-given gifts here in the Valley,” he said, acknowledging the unmatched conditions that allow the Central Valley to produce a vast share of the nation’s food supply.
A Desert That Feeds the World
What makes the Central Valley truly remarkable, Jacobsen noted, is how this “magical desert” has bloomed into a region responsible for feeding much of the nation. California’s agricultural output includes over 75% of America’s fruits, more than one-third of its vegetables, and the majority of its tree nuts.
But despite this vital role, Jacobsen warned that agriculture often gets overshadowed—especially when compared to billion-dollar industries like Silicon Valley just a couple of hours away. “People like to easily discount us,” he said, urging a shift in perspective.
More Than Economics: It’s About What We Eat
For Jacobsen, the conversation must move beyond economics. “Let’s just call it what it is. It’s food,” he stated. Agriculture should not be viewed solely through a financial lens but appreciated for the colors, flavors, and nutrition it brings to every American table.
Jacobsen’s comments serve as a reminder that California agriculture is not just an industry—it’s the foundation of what Americans eat daily. As challenges mount, the importance of supporting and preserving this vital sector becomes even clearer.
Conclusion: Time for a Broader Conversation
With growing pressure from urban development, policy shifts, and resource constraints, Jacobsen’s remarks offer a wake-up call. California agriculture isn’t just in the background—it’s front and center in feeding the country. It’s time to treat it that way.
The full interview with Ryan Jacobsen can be heard here.
Reporting by Nick Papagni, “The Ag Meter,” for AgNet West.