CA agriculture feeds the nation

OPINION – Agriculture Day at California’s State Capitol is more than a celebration—it’s a recognition of the people, innovation, and sustainability that define our agricultural industry. With its Mediterranean climate and rich soil, California produces over 400 commodities, supplying more than a third of the nation’s vegetables and three-quarters of its fruits and nuts. Strawberries, in particular, exemplify the ingenuity, environmental responsibility, and economic opportunities that make California agriculture the leader it is today.

There is no greater farm-to-fork success story than California Grown. From our fields to families across the nation, California’s farmers ensure a reliable supply of fresh, nutritious food. Locally grown strawberries are at the forefront of this commitment—delivering premium-quality fruit from farm to table and strengthening the direct connection between consumers and growers.

California grows 90% of the nation’s strawberries, making them not just an agricultural staple but a powerful economic driver. Our state is also the global leader in organic strawberry production, a testament to the industry’s dedication to sustainable farming. These berries don’t just travel across the country—they reach homes, schools, and markets with a freshness that reflects our industry’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

For decades, innovation and sustainability have driven the success of California strawberries. In the 1990s, our industry revolutionized food safety and waste reduction by introducing the clear plastic clamshell—a packaging breakthrough that extended shelf life and protected fruit quality. Today, that same clamshell is made primarily from recycled plastic and is now 100 percent recyclable, surpassing California’s stringent environmental standards and reinforcing our commitment to a circular economy.

Water conservation is another area where California strawberry growers lead. With drip irrigation and advanced soil monitoring, farmers maximize water efficiency while preserving soil health. These efforts are critical as we adapt to climate challenges and ensure the sustainability of California’s agricultural resources.

Beyond sustainability, strawberries create economic and social mobility. The industry supports over 70,000 jobs across farming, processing, transportation, and distribution. More importantly, strawberries represent a proven pathway for career advancement—a story rooted in California’s immigrant heritage. Today, over 65% of California’s strawberry growers are Latino, many of whom began their journey as farmworkers. Their success underscores the opportunity that agriculture provides and the resilience that defines our industry.

As we celebrate California Agriculture Day, we honor more than the abundance of food we produce—we celebrate the people behind it. From pioneering sustainable practices to fostering economic growth, California strawberries are a symbol of agriculture’s lasting strength and boundless potential.

When consumers choose California Grown, they are not just purchasing food—they are supporting a movement. A movement that values quality, sustainability, and the hardworking hands that nourish our communities.

Rick Tomlinson is President of the California Strawberry Commission, representing all California strawberry farmers, shippers, and processors.