Marin County, CA – Marin County’s agricultural industry faced a challenging year in 2023, as the total gross value of all agricultural production dipped 9% to $85.3 million, reflecting the ongoing impacts of climate variability and market fluctuations.
The latest figures were highlighted in the 2023 Marin County Crop & Livestock Report, presented to the Board of Supervisors on August 20 by the staff of the Department of Agriculture / Weights & Measures.
Despite the overall decline, poultry emerged as the county’s leading commodity for the first time in recent years, valued at $24.6 million — a 5% increase from the previous year. The increase was driven by a national egg shortage tied to avian influenza, which pushed local prices higher.
Organic milk, historically a cornerstone of Marin’s agricultural economy, saw its value drop sharply by 32% to $21.9 million. While the number of organic dairies remained steady, production decreased by 25%, accompanied by a decline in prices.
“The price of cattle in 2023 was exceptionally high, the highest I can remember,” said Joe Deviney, Agricultural Commissioner of Marin. “With three years of drought in a row, and elevated feed prices, ranchers needed to reduce their herd size. The smaller inventory in the west produced an elevated price, but it was a very needed change for them. Local dairies continue to face numerous challenges, and I’m hopeful they will survive through the uncertainties ahead.”
Cattle, ranking third in value, experienced a slight decline of 1%, totaling $14.8 million. On a more positive note, pasture value increased by 19% to $8.8 million, bolstered by favorable winter precipitation that helped rejuvenate grazing lands after years of drought.
Aquaculture also saw a modest 2% increase, bringing its value to $6.1 million, while fruits and vegetables fell 7% to $3.2 million, primarily due to reduced harvested acreage. Sheep values took a notable hit, decreasing by 25% to $2.2 million.
One of the report’s highlights was the resurgence in the value of wine grapes, which climbed 11% to $919,000 despite fewer harvested acres, thanks to an increase in the value per ton. Conversely, silage production struggled, with its value plummeting 28% to $445,000.
The report also highlights the end of a three-year drought, thanks to substantial winter precipitation in 2023. For the sixth consecutive year, poultry, organic milk, and cattle remained Marin’s top three commodities, collectively valued at $61.4 million, which accounts for approximately 72% of the county’s total agricultural production.
The report also shines a spotlight on climate-smart agriculture, a practice pioneered by Marin and neighboring Sonoma County. The collaboration between farmers, ranchers, scientists, and conservation organizations in these counties has been instrumental in advancing agricultural practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, store carbon in soils, and build resilience to climate change. The success of these initiatives is a testament to the dedication and innovation of Marin’s agricultural community.
The full 2023 Marin County Crop & Livestock Report, along with previous reports, is available online. These reports are also submitted to the California Department of Food and Agriculture for inclusion in statewide data.
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