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Guide to Arizona

December 2018

From seed funding to sustainable growth, every economy has its roots in agriculture. The importance of agriculture and its contributions to the citizens and the state of Arizona cannot be overlooked. Agriculture is estimated to be a $23.3 billion , resulting in the creation of 138,000 jobs. Representing three of Arizona’s “5 C’s” – , and cotton – agriculture is a fountain of economic opportunity for tens of thousands of Arizonans and a source of sustenance for millions more.

My pride in our state’s agricultural achievements has no words. Arizona is the 3rd largest producing state for fresh , and it is 4th in the country in acres of organic vegetables. Arizona-grown fresh produce shipped 112 million cartons last year. And we’re still leaders in making the country shine – our beautiful rosebushes will represent 75% of the national market in the near future.

Douglas A. Ducey Additionally, our state produced 455.7 million pounds of red and more than 4.2 billion pounds Governor, State of Arizona of . Arizona takes pride in our and ranchers and is always striving to lessen their regulatory burdens so that citizens can pursue their dreams, expand their operations, and reach for the stars.

The Grand Canyon State has one of the lowest corporate tax structures, touts a young and healthy work force, and is the national model when other states need new ideas. So, whether a decides to begin in this great state, expand here, or relocate from somewhere else, Arizona is open for business.

If you’re looking to learn more about our state’s agriculture industries, find information that can enhance your life, or considering relocating to Arizona, this Guide to Arizona Agriculture is for you. Enjoy.

December 2018

Did you know, Arizona’s agriculture industry generated $23.3 billion to our state’s economy and directly and indirectly supported more than 138,000 full and part-time jobs, employing more than 162,000 unique workers?

Did you know that Arizona grows some of the best , red durum (for pasta) and pecans? Arizona is the second leading producer of cantaloupes, honeydews, pistachios and dates for the nation.

Did you know that Yuma, Arizona is the “Winter Salad Bowl” capitol of the – when it provides 90% of all leafy greens to the nation?

Did you know Arizona agricultural producers export to over 70 countries?

Not only does agriculture supply our , it’s vital to the Arizona economy, and provides open space, wildlife Mark W. Killian Director, AZ Dept of Agriculture habitat and efforts to protect and conserve our natural resources. As Thomas Jefferson stated, “Agriculture is our wisest pursuit because it will in the end contribute most to real wealth, good morals and happiness.”

A large part of the Arizona Department of Agriculture’s (AZDA) mission is to support and promote agriculture in this great state. We take that job seriously. If you are interested in learning about Arizona agriculture, we can help.

The Guide to Arizona Agriculture provides you with a well-rounded perspective into Arizona agriculture and illustrates how vital it is to society. Contact the AZDA at agriculture.az.gov to learn more about agriculture and the AZDA.

Sincerely,

Contents

Open for Business 6 Arizona Wine Growers Association 22 Water in the Desert 7 Arizona Pecan Growers Association 23 Arizona Agriculture 8 Arizona Nursery Association 24 Indigenous Farmers 10 Arizona Cotton Growers Association 25 Arizona Bureau 13 Arizona Grain Research & Promotion Council 26 Arizona Council 14 Education 28 Arizona Cattlemen’s Association 15 Cooperative Extension 30 Associations 16 Youth 31 Egg Producers 17 Food Safety 32 & Water Council of Arizona 18 Arizona Schedule 34 Arizona Leafy Greens 19 Exports 37 Western Growers 20 Department 38 Yuma Fresh Association 21 Partners 40 Open for Business

The Grand Canyon State boasts natural beauty and Arizona has one of the lowest corporate wonderful weather. It also provides an excellent climate tax structures in place at the rate of 4.9%. for business. Located in the Southwest, Arizona has access to international and interstate markets, many within a find tax credit programs for manufacturing, day’s drive. The competitive tax structure and available research and development, renewable energy and the workforce add to the benefits for Arizona business. creation of quality jobs. Quality jobs are defined by the areas in which the business locates, based on average The well-planned infrastructure provides wages and health insurance. quick access for products to quickly go to market, as well as for supplies to come The state’s workforce tops 3 million and into the state. Arizona offers more than 66,000 miles has a relatively young median age of 37. of highways, over 40 public transit systems, two Class I It is a Right to Work state and has some of railroads and more than 80 airports. Companies have the lowest labor costs in the country. access to 65 million consumers through the transportation system. The state’s location gives proximity to some of Whether a business decides to start, expand or relocate, the world’s largest economies – Texas, Mexico and Arizona is Open for Business. California as well as shipping ports on the West Coast.

6 Water in the Desert

There are four deserts in the Grand Canyon State leading industrial, tribal and environmental users. many people to believe there is no available water in the state. Truthfully, Arizona acknowledged the water situation Leaders at all levels of and the decades ago and planned for growth and protected its private sector have taken action for the . sustainable use of Arizona’s water supply. The state is blessed with a network of rivers and streams Other efforts provide storage capabilities including the Colorado, Verde, Salt, Gila, San Pedro, Santa above and below ground in an effort to Cruz and Little Colorado Rivers. There are also many save for future needs. tributaries that contribute to those rivers. Each watershed connects communities that are dependent on their flows Agriculture uses water the same way it uses the land. for sustaining life and agriculture. Modern technology helps farmers and ranchers use what they need and no more. Water not used in the fields The past provides a foundation for efficient use and returns to the rivers and storage. Most importantly the conservation of water. The Hohokam and other indigenous water used by agriculture is not wasted; it provides food people used canals to divert water for and sustain and fiber to the people of Arizona, the United States and communities. Modern water leaders work to share many other countries. the water among various users: agricultural, municipal,

7 Arizona Agriculture

Long before Arizona was a state, and before there was a Since then, producers have found the diversity of United States, agriculture thrived in the region. Agriculture’s Arizona’s climate and supports hundreds of food history in the Grand Canyon State stretches back more crops, beautiful landscaped , poultry, swine and than 4,000 years. Archaeological records show Indigenous cattle for dairy and meat. Arizona agriculture exports people growing to sustain their families. vegetables, , nuts, seeds, wheat, , cotton, eggs, beef and milk to 70 countries and across the U.S. When explorers traveled through the state in the early 19th century, they found people growing corn, wheat, Today, agriculture in Arizona contributes barley and raising cattle. They also found one of the most more than $23.3 billion to the state’s amazing systems, one that is still used today. economy. One study puts the number The Hohokam people built the canals to move water from the Gila and Salt Rivers to their fields. The canals of jobs supported by agriculture at were engineered to move the water at the correct speed approximately 138,000, and the number to maintain the flow, without clogging the canals with of workers employed at 162,000. silt and debris.

8 Some of the many people that make agriculture work The state also boasts a growing and date industry. in Arizona include workers, harvest crews, Pistachio trees have a small presence in the Grand Canyon distributors, farmers, ranchers, and State, but the pecan business is developing quickly. The state suppliers, scientists, engineers, fuel companies and has the largest pecan grove in the country and the largest equipment dealers. date in the world.

Arizona’s climate provides year-round growing for hundreds The animal industry, led by cattle ranching, dairy and dairy of types of crops. Besides crops such as cotton, alfalfa production, is the largest agricultural sector. The egg and wheat, Arizona farmers raise numerous specialty crops. industry is growing as companies see the excellent The specialty crop sector includes thousands of varieties economic opportunities. There are also facilities licensed from nursery plants to the fresh vegetables eaten every day. for growing fish and shrimp. Leafy greens, cabbage, dates, melons, lemons, oranges, apples, potatoes and tomatoes are just some harvested from Arizona’s nourishing soil.

9 Indigenous Farmers

Indigenous farmers predate Arizona statehood by several The largest use of the is used for hundred years, with some areas going back centuries. animals including beef cattle, , , fish and other The United States Department of Agriculture National animal products. Agriculture Statistics Service’s census from 2012 paints a picture of indigenous farming and ranching. They grow a variety of crops including, but not limited to alfalfa, hay, corn, cotton, wheat, citrus, olives and Currently there are 18,475 indigenous potatoes. The average age of an indigenous producer is 58, farmers and ranchers operating in Arizona virtually the same as their non-native counterparts. making up 57% of the agricultural Unlike the rest of the state, women make up the largest number of indigenous producers. operations in the state. They operate on over 20.6 million acres producing over $86.7 million in direct agricultural sales.

10

Arizona Farm Bureau ARIZONA AND 26 Million acres

325 S. Higley Road, #210 Gilbert, AZ 85296 480-635-3605 $23.3 Billion azfb.org is the size of Arizona agriculture’s industry 40% of farmers Organized agriculture thrived Through the next 90 years, Arizona > The Arizona Farm Bureau are women in the area now known as Arizona agriculture grew as more producers was organized in 1921 to hundreds of years before it was recognized that the fertile soil and represent all agriculture: settled by current residents. Shortly substantial sunshine allowed for small, medium and large, after statehood in 1912, citrus joined year-round growing of exceptional animal, and organic, cotton as a major quality crops. conventional and biotech in the state. In 1922 the state’s first farmers and ranchers. dairy, Shamrock, opened in Tucson Today, Arizona ranks tenth in organic solidifying agriculture as a major sales, third in lemon production, > As the largest farm and economic player in Arizona. The and during winter months, first for organization in Arizona, different industries joined together lettuce and other leafy greens. Arizona Farm Bureau projects to ensure strong representation in Arizona agriculture and agribusiness the Voice of Agriculture in economic decisions and legislation. have more than a $23.3 billion the state. impact on the state’s economy. COUNTIES Includes all counties

13 Arizona Beef Council

APPROXIMATE ECONOMIC IMPACT $521 Million export value

1401 N. 24th Street, Suite 4 Phoenix, AZ 85008 43% 602-273-7163 exports outside of Arizona arizonabeef.org Year-round production

More than 30% of Arizona’s 20,005 Beef provides 10 essential nutrients > T he Arizona Beef Council, farms and ranches raise cattle, to Arizona families including zinc, created in August, 1970, helps totaling almost 1,000,000 head. iron, protein and B vitamins. Protein develop and maintain state, can help in maintaining a healthy national, and foreign markets Besides caring for , a top weight, building muscle and fueling for beef and beef products. priority for beef farmers and ranchers physical activity – all of which is conservation and stewarding are important to a healthy life and > T he Beef Checkoff Program the land, water and wildlife. disease prevention. funds education, research and Arizona’s ranches, feed yards and promotion of beef in Arizona. work together to make the In Arizona, the beef community best use of resources to raise is more than cow-calf ranches, feed nutrient-rich beef in a way that is yards and dairies. It also includes sustainable for the future. In fact, cattle processing, finishing, COUNTIES sustainability is not a new concept: and tanning. 54% of farms and ranches have Includes all counties been in the same family for three generations or more.

14 Arizona Cattlemen’s Association

CATTLE INDUSTRY 8 Million people could have been fed by Arizona ranchers in 2015

1401 N. 24th Street, Suite 4 Phoenix, AZ 85008 1.4 Billion 602-267-1129 azcattlemensassoc.org beef meals were raised by Arizona ranchers in 2015 Year-round production Cattle and other livestock moved and the economic impact is > The Arizona Cattle Growers’ into Arizona over 300 years ago substantial. Almost every rural Association was organized after conquistadors discovered community in Arizona is in 1904 to help create orderly, the area. The cattle industry in dependent upon the cattle systematic laws to protect Arizona plays a very important role industry for its purchasing power livestock and property. in the overall economy of the driving their economies. state. For every 100 jobs in the > The Association is the only industry, they support another The Arizona cattle industry organization that exclusively 65 jobs outside of the industry. supports some of the most represents Arizona’s beef productive ranches in the world. producing families. Arizona ranches produce some of Millions of dollars in range the best beef in America. This beef land improvement not only help is exported both domestically and to better the landscape but all around the world. also improve the wellbeing of COUNTIES the wildlife found in abundance You will find cattle operations on these ranches. Includes all counties in every county in Arizona. These operations provide jobs for thousands of people in the state

15 Dairy Associations ARIZONA’S DAIRY INDUSTRY REPORTED 4.2 Billion 2008 S. Hardy Drive lbs of milk produced per year Tempe, AZ 85282-1211 480-966-7211 205,000 uda.coop cows

48 Hours 510 S. 52nd Street Tempe, AZ 85281 for milk to get from 480-656-7163 the dairy farm to the store arizonamilk.org

Year-round Founded in 1960, United Dairymen Incorporated in 1966, Dairy Council® > United Dairymen of Arizona industry of Arizona (UDA) is Arizona’s largest of Arizona is the premier nutrition (UDA) is one of the strongest milk marketing cooperative. The education organization in the state. producer-owned coopera­tives cooperative merged two local dairy Funded by Arizona’s dairy farmers in the country. associations to ensure an adequate through a federal checkoff supply of fresh milk and dairy program, Dairy Council of Arizona > UDA is the sixth largest private products of the highest possible provides evidence-based resources employer in the state. quality for customers. to schools, health professionals, > The Arizona Milk Producers and consumers encouraging the UDA’s membership consists of and Dairy Council of Arizona, consumption of three servings funded by a checkoff approximately 89 farms, averaging of milk, or yogurt. As active 2,800 head per dairy. program, promote dairy members of their communities, and nutrition education. dairy farm families take pride in UDA’s modern manufacturing COUNTIES maintaining natural resources. That facility in Tempe operates 24 hours means preserving the land where a day, 7 days a week, and can Cochise, Gila, Greenlee, they live and work, protecting the process over 1 million gallons of La Paz, Maricopa, Navajo, air and water they share with milk per day. Pinal, Yavapai and Yuma neighbors, and providing the best care for their cows – the lifeblood of their business. 16 Egg Producers

6515 S. Jackrabbit Trail Buckeye, AZ 85326 EGG INDUSTRY 623-872-1120 hickmanseggs.com 360 Million dozens of eggs are sold in Arizona each year

Post Office Box 1250 Seymour, IN 47274 812-497-2557 Year-round goodegg.com production

The commercial egg industry in By 2025, Hickman’s expects to > An egg can go from farm to Arizona started the same way many have transitioned all laying hens table in less than 24 hours. small businesses begin – in to cage free. someone’s home. In this case it was > Hickman’s Family Farms and in Nell Hickman’s backyard in 1944. Hickman’s was the first USA egg Rose Acre Farms are family Egg production soon outgrew the company to ship eggs to Korea, due owned and operated. backyard coops, growing from 50 to having the highest food safety hens to 500. Hickman’s Family Farms rating and superior customer has about 10 million hens in several satisfaction. The Tonopah egg sites in Arizona. Beginning in 2017, processing technology was another family-owned company, the most expedient computer Rose Acre Farms, began producing adaptability for Korean labeling eggs in La Paz County. As the second requirements. largest egg producer in the U.S., COUNTIES Today’s egg facilities are economical, the Rust family began the company efficient and environmentally from its home in the 1930s. La Paz, Maricopa friendly. Operations utilize conveyor and Pinal Hickman’s is the only egg brand in belts and robots to speed the the USA using 100% PET containers. packing process and reduce human contact with the eggs.

17 Agribusiness & Water Council of Arizona ABWC has 20 irrigation districts and other water user organizations who represent approximately 510,000 irrigated acres and 2.5 million acre feet of water used on average per year. 1819 E. Southern Avenue, Suite E-10 Mesa, AZ 85204 ABWC, working with 480-558-5301 Arizona State University, has agribusinessarizona.org a very successful “Water Management Certificate Program,” which is designed to help train the next generation of water managers in Arizona and other states. The Agribusiness & Water Council Purpose: > In Arizona, approximately of Arizona (ABWC) is a not-for- To maintain the integrity of Arizona’s 70% of water is diverted profit trade association whose water supplies and the industries to agriculture in the year- membership represents irrigated that rely on these essentials for the round production of food agriculture and agribusiness in benefit of Arizona’s economy.​​ and fiber in many parts of Arizona. ABWC was established in the state. The water used in 1978 to respond to proposed water ​Mission: production ultimately legislation and later to serve as the ​To represent irrigated agriculture benefits millions of end-users state affiliate to the National Water and agribusiness by working or consumers throughout Resources Association (NWRA). Its to promote and protect water Arizona and beyond. members are comprised of irrigation resources in the state of Arizona and electrical districts and other and to actively educate, support > ABWC provides a forum for water user organizations; growers; and promote all aspects of water, the exchange of information COUNTIES ranchers; suppliers of equipment, agriculture and agribusiness. to enhance the agricultural seed, chemicals and other services; and agribusiness communities Apache, Cochise, Graham, attorneys; consultants; agricultural in Arizona and to also educate LaPaz, Maricopa, Mohave, processors; financiers of agribusiness elected officials at the Pima, Pinal, Yavapai and Yuma enterprises; educational institutions various levels of government. and trade associations.

18 Arizona Leafy Greens IN 2015, THE LEAFY GREENS INDUSTRY CONTRIBUTED $2 Billion in sales to the Arizona economy

Arizona Leafy Greens Food Safety Committee $779 Million 1688 W. Adams Phoenix, AZ 85007 on-farm production 602-542-0945 azleafygreens.org $1 Billion in sales generated through indirect Leafy greens have a special place in using strict protocols for food A new federal Food Safety and induced effects Arizona agriculture. The state ranks safety. The comprehensive program Modernization Act Produce Safety second in production of lettuce sets a high standard that other Rule requires many of the food and spinach in the country. The across the country safety measures that Arizona’s production of leafy greens carries have followed. leafy greens industry already has a large responsibility for public in place. health. For the most part, leafy Certification from the Arizona greens are eaten raw. Growing, Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement > S tarted in 2007, the Arizona harvesting and shipping this covers the 15 leafy greens grown in Leafy Greens program produce must all be done with Arizona: iceberg, romaine, baby leaf, is a model for other states. spring mix, green, red and Good Agricultural Practices/ > A rizona Leafy Greens’ Food Good Handling Practices to leaf lettuces, spinach, cabbage, kale, Safety Training Kit received protect against foodborne illness. arugula, chard, endive, escarole and radicchio. To receive certification, industry recognition in 2012, COUNTIES Arizona’s producers created an shippers must make sure that 2014 and 2017. innovative food safety program in those who grow and harvest their Maricopa and Yuma 2007. The voluntary plan assures product have complete food safety buyers that the leafy greens grown compliance plans and written with this program are produced trace-back programs.

19 Western Growers U.S. FARMS 80% of food eaten in the country comes from U.S. farms 1110 E. Missouri Avenue, Suite 340 Phoenix, AZ 85014 602-682-9146 ARIZONA FARMS wga.com Year-round growing season Most fields return to production Western Growers is a non-profit benefits for farm workers, food of the productivity and the growing days after harvest trade association that represents safety and regulatory compliance, environment. local and regional family farmers logistics solutions and agtech growing fresh produce in Arizona, initiatives. Arizona cash receipts for crops in California, Colorado and New 2016 totaled $2.6 billion with Mexico. Western Growers’ members Arizona’s diverse weather and soil vegetables and melons accounting and their workers provide over conditions, along with well-managed for 50% of crop cash receipts. half the nation’s fresh , water resources, allow for year- vegetables and tree nuts, including round growing of a variety of fresh > Western Growers was nearly half of America’s fresh produce crops across more than founded in 1926 to enhance organic produce. 149,000 acres. the competitiveness and profitability of members. Western Growers’ mission is to Western Growers’ members > T he group helps members COUNTIES enhance the competitiveness and produce lettuce, spinach, broccoli, with health care, labor, profitability of its members. The cauliflower, cabbage, melons international trade and Includes all counties organization accomplishes this by and many other crops in Arizona, transportation. providing agriculture-minded the perfect location for producing products and services, including fruits, vegetables and tree nuts. state and federal advocacy, health Many agricultural companies are moving to Arizona because

20 Yuma Fresh Vegetable Association

AGRICULTURE IN YUMA COUNTY 1 in 4 jobs tied to agriculture

Post Office Box 1647 Yuma, AZ 85366 $2.8 Billion 928-783-9355 yumafreshveg.com for Yuma County economy Year-round growing season

If you eat a salad containing lettuce With fertile alluvial soil, water > In 1947, Yuma producers anywhere in the United States from the Colorado River and 90% established YFVA, a non- during the winter months, most sunshine each year, Yuma area profit association dedicated likely that lettuce was grown farmers grow over 40 kinds of to promoting and protecting in Yuma. In fact, Yuma farmers vegetables and melons on more the needs of the Yuma annually produce enough iceberg than 100,000 acres. For all the vegetable industry. lettuce for every man, woman and counties in the United States, Yuma child in the United States, Canada County ranks in the top 0.1% > Each February, YFVA holds and Mexico to have their very for sales of vegetables and melons the Southwest Ag Summit, a own head of Yuma-grown lettuce. and for acres of vegetable crops. forum providing participants And there would still be nearly To , grow and harvest all with research findings and 90 million heads of lettuce to those vegetables requires tens of technological advancements send to other countries in the thousands of workers. All that to help them compete in world. That’s why Yuma is known vegetable production makes the an ever-changing industry. COUNTIES as the “Winter Lettuce Capital Yuma area a national center of the World.” for agricultural production and Yuma contributes almost $3 billion annually to the Arizona economy.

21 Arizona Wine Growers Association IN 2015, ARIZONA’S WINE INDUSTRY 1,250 acres 300,000 gallons produced azwinefestivals.com $25 Million estimated worth Year-round wine availability Arizona wine traces its roots to the Grapes thrive above 3,500 feet, > Arizona Wine Growers 16th century. Spanish Jesuit priests a region which isn’t suitable for many Association, founded in 1983, planted grapevines and made wine crops. Grapes also use little water represents wine growers for sacramental use in their missions. which makes them ideal for a state and licensed wine producers. that cherishes every drop. Armed Historical accounts show that just with that information, the wine > T he association works to before the beginning of the 20th industry in Arizona began to grow – market, promote, advocate century, two farmers started wine slowly at first. and educate about Arizona’s grape near Sedona and wine industry. Douglas. A study completed in 1980 Sonoita Vineyards was the first, launched the modern wine industry licensed shortly after the state in Arizona. The feasibility study passed a Farm Winery Law in 1982. showed the viability of grapes in By the time the state updated the COUNTIES certain areas of the state depending law in 2006, there were 9 licensed on climate and soil. There are wineries. The next 10 years brought Cochise, Santa Cruz several areas around the state that exponential growth for the industry. and Yavapai are suitable for growing grapes: In 2015, 97 licensed wineries Willcox Basin, San Simon Basin, and produced 300,000 gallons of wine. areas near Kingman, Sonoita and the Verde Valley.

22 Arizona Pecan Growers Association 2016 ESTIMATES 22 Million pounds of production $55 Million gross revenue

Post Office Box 7 Sahuarita, AZ 85629 PECAN TREES 520-403-4613 arizonapecan.com 7-8 Years to produce after planting Larger Arizona can brag about its pecan Farmers Investment Company is > The Arizona Pecan Growers every other year industry. The Grand Canyon State has the only major pecan shelling Association began in 1990. the largest pecan farm in the world company in Arizona, New Mexico with over 8,000 acres of trees. and Mexico. Besides Walden’s > The association’s mission is Keith Walden, Farmers Investment pecans, it buys nuts from growers dedicated to the Arizona Company, ventured into the pecan in Arizona, New Mexico and Mexico. pecan growers and to support business in the early 1960s when The pecans are marketed under every individual in the he planted the trees on part the Green Valley Pecan brand. industry by offering annual of his cotton farm in Green Valley / educational conferences, Sahuarita, south of Tucson. Walden isn’t the only grower membership benefits, and The trees produced well in Arizona’s anymore. There are 22,000 acres of the latest scientific-based soil and sunshine, and he planted mature pecan trees in the state. knowledge on proven more. Pecan trees now cover over Since the trees flourish in Arizona’s methods for growing the 5,000 acres on that farm and 3,000 climate, acreage in the state is healthy pecan nut in Arizona. COUNTIES acres in San Simon. increasing. Planted pecan acreage in Arizona is projected to grow to > T he association was formed Cochise, Gila, Graham, to promote and improve the 30,000 acres in the coming years. Greenlee, Maricopa, Mohave, advancement of the pecan Pima, Pinal and Yavapai industry in Arizona.

23 Arizona Nursery Association NURSERY AND LANDSCAPE INDUSTRY $1.6 Billion sales

$710 Million 1430 W. Broadway Road, Suite 110 payroll Tempe, AZ 85282 480-966-1610 azna.org 30,000 plant-something.org jobs Year-round growing season Nurseries started in the Grand new beautiful plants that need less > The Arizona Nursery Canyon State when Arizonans water and are suited for the state’s Association represents the demanded beautiful, low-water unique climate. retail and wholesale plant plants that California nurseries and tree growers in the state couldn’t supply. Arizona’s nursery Arizona’s rose industry does of Arizona. industry covers retail and wholesale more than develop varieties suited plant and tree growers. Professionals for Arizona. Many new varieties > F ormed in 1959, the association in the nursery industry are called are sent throughout the U.S. and provides communication, horticulturalists; they understand exported. Most of the roses bought education and promotion and teach their customers about across the country at nurseries, services for members. landscape design, choosing plants, hardware stores and superstores caring for them and detecting have their roots in Arizona soil. disease, among other skills. COUNTIES Plant Something is a national During the last 40 years, the nursery promotion which Includes all counties state’s nurseries have changed and highlights the money, health and diversified the plants they offer environmental benefits of planting. based on what the public wants. To learn more, please visit: Horticulturalists develop and raise plant-something.org

24 Arizona Cotton Growers Association 1 BALE OF COTTON = 215 pairs of jeans 1,200 t-shirts

ECONOMIC IMPACT

9885 S. Priest Drive, Suite 102 Tempe, AZ 85284 $400-500 602-437-1344 azcottongrowers.com Million per year

Cotton has a long history in The Goodyear company also > T he Arizona Cotton Growers 3,000 Arizona, but the greatest evolution brought an aircraft corporation to Association, started in May, jobs came in the late 19th century. When the area. The town of Goodyear 1942, represents all cotton the popularity of Egyptian cotton is named for the company. growers in the state. grew, Arizona farmers worked to grow an American . The Almost all the plant is used when > T he mission is to protect longer fibers found in the hybrid it is processed. The seed, stalk and and improve the economic cotton are stronger than the short even the lint have a use in our society. viability of the Arizona staple cotton. This cotton, later Seed is sold for future planting. cotton producer. called Pima cotton, was valued for is used for cooking its strength. The cloth made from (cholesterol-free) and in a variety of it is soft and silky. industrial products (soap, margarine, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals During World War I, the stronger to name a few). The stalks can be COUNTIES cotton grown in Arizona was used processed into mulch. The lint is used in tires and airplane wings. The for bandages and cotton swabs. Cochise, Graham, Greenlee, Goodyear Tire and Rubber company bought land and grew the Pima Arizona’s generous sunshine and La Paz, Maricopa, Mohave, cotton in the Salt River Valley. fertile soil grow some of the best Pima, Pinal and Yuma Other tire makers followed suit. cotton in the world.

25 Arizona Grain Research & Promotion Council

BARLEY AND WHEAT $200-350

Million 1688 W. Adams annual economic impact Phoenix, AZ 85007 602-542-3262 100 bushels per acre each (average yield in Arizona)

Arizona farmers have grown barley Arizona’s durum wheat grain is > The Arizona Grain Research and and wheat for more than a known as Desert Durum®. The state’s Promotion Council (AGRPC), century. These grains now typically routinely favorable climate, formed in 1986, uses checkoff comprise 15-20% of the state’s combined with superior genetics funds to improve profitability of annual cultivated crop acreage, and measured production resources grain growing for growers. depending on market demands. (water and nutrients), yields a Barley is an important livestock feed consistently large low-moisture > D esert Durum® is a service as either grain or forage. Arizona’s grain kernel that produces high and certification mark owned wheat, of the durum market class, semolina flour extraction. This flour by AGRPC and the California is known globally for its superior contains a strong gluten protein and Wheat Commission. milling and semolina flour traits. a dark yellow color and is widely Recent research is demonstrating used to blend with and improve that growing these grains in rotation semolina from other sources, COUNTIES with vegetable and produce crops, resulting in consistent pasta quality. in particular, provides valuable Desert Durum® grain meets the Cochise, Graham, La Paz, soil conditioning that enhances needs of millers and pasta-makers Maricopa, Pima, Pinal the productivity and sustainability in domestic and foreign markets. and Yuma of those for producing Approximately 50% of each Desert vegetables and other produce. Durum® crop is exported.

26

Education

Universities and colleges work closely with the agriculture industry in Arizona to enhance quality and efficiency. Creation of knowledge through research at universities is of the utmost importance for the advancement of the Arizona agricultural economy.

The state’s three public universities, Arizona State University (ASU), Northern Arizona University (NAU), and the University of Arizona (UA) have programs that interact with the industry. Midwestern University, a not-for-profit private school, has a College of Veterinary Medicine. Arizona Western and Yavapai Colleges offer degrees and coursework in agriculture technology.

Established in 1891, the state’s land grant university, UA, is located in Tucson. Its College of Agriculture and Life Sciences provides a comprehensive program in all aspects of the commerce of agriculture. Degrees in

28 all of the traditional agricultural disciplines as well as Key programs include the W. P. Carey School of Business biomedical sciences, engineering, economics, education, Morrison School of Agribusiness, which focuses on the and family and consumer sciences, including a top- business side of agriculture and the School of Nutrition and ranking retail science program are offered. The UA is Health Promotion, which works with various agriculture committed to develop­ing a public School of Veterinary industry groups to promote Arizona grown products. asu.edu Medicine particularly to address the need for rural veterinarians, to support our important food animal Arizona Western College in Yuma works closely with the industries and public health. The UA also maintains agriculture industry to offer up-to-date hands-on learning Arizona’s Cooperative Extension System and statewide in production agriculture. It offers agricultural degree network of Experiment Station units. cals.arizona.edu and certificate programs in crop production, food safety, animal production and agricommerce. azwestern.edu NAU in Flagstaff features earth sciences and environmental sustainability degree programs related to protecting Yavapai College, with six locations in Yavapai County, natural resources through agricultural and land-use offers programs that teach how to start, manage and management practices. nau.edu/cefns/natsci/seses market agriculture businesses. It also hosts an academic center to support the wine industry. Classes and hands- ASU offers robust programs and research in the areas on training provide opportunities for current and future of sustainability, biological sciences and agriculture. and enology professionals. yc.edu

29 Cooperative Extension

University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Sciences industries that have helped change conversations, especially (UA) puts science to work, creating innovative solutions to around water. the challenges of arid-land agriculture. With 150,000 acres of farm and ranchland located in Graham, Coconino, Two public private-partnerships complement the work. Pima, Pinal, and Yuma counties, UA’s Experiment Station The Yuma Center of Excellence for Desert Agriculture research sites allow for developing cutting-edge programs (YCEDA) is a unique public-private partnership, connecting that address the specific needs of Arizona agribusiness. the scientific community, the desert agricultural industry, and technology partners. The Natural Resource Users As Arizona’s land-grant institution, UA researchers continue to Law and Policy Center (NRULPC) is the first law center to build on a legacy of more than a century of supporting and focus on the use of natural resources as a foundation transforming Arizona agriculture through scientific research. to our economy and national security. A collaboration Plant and animal genomics, crop breeding, dairy systems, between Cooperative Extension and University of technology, beef production, irrigation water management, Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law, the NRULPC soils and fertility, and integrated pest management are only educates, researches, and brings new solutions to bear a few of UA’s focus areas. on the practical legal and policy problems of our natural resource stakeholders. With programs in all 15 Arizona counties, Cooperative Extension’s economic impact analysis team partners with Learn more at cals.arizona.edu/research-home

30 Youth

Arizona youth have a variety of ways to begin learning 4-H/FFA youth grow up to be leaders who about agriculture. The Arizona Farm Bureau and the give back to the community. UA Cooperative Extension offer Ag in the Classroom/ Ag Literacy programs and lessons for K-12 classroom The FFA opportunity for students starts with secondary teachers as well as direct delivery of educational education. Expanding on leadership, communication programs to students in kindergarten through seniors and emotional, social and professional growth provides in high school. The Arizona Agriculture Teachers a sound foundation for teens to achieve success. FFA Association instills a passion in students for agriculture opportunities continue through college, preparing young and learning. adults opportunities to pursue agriculture, business, engineering, education and many other professions. UA’s College of Agriculture & Life Sciences Cooperative Extension 4-H Agents guide 4-H programs around the Of course, the basis for all education of young people state working with individual communities and youth. begins with good teachers. Learning often begins at home Proven to create leaders and active adults, more than from generations of agriculture experience. Sometimes, 130,000 4-H students learn practical skills for success. it doesn’t start until a child finds the right teacher in school. With the best STEM (Science, Technology, Education No matter when it starts, the love of agriculture instilled and Math) afterschool program in the state, it’s no wonder at a young age fosters a love for the land, respect for Arizona 4-H is a leader in the country. animals and appreciation of a hard day’s work.

31 Food Safety

The U.S. has one of the safest food supplies in the world Egg production is monitored from the houses and that’s because agriculture prioritizes food safety. through packaging and into the retail stores for safety and Working with the Department of Agriculture, USDA and sanitation. Chicken coops, processing, packaging and FDA, Arizona producers protect the food supply starting distribution have standards for , , at the farm. safe handling, temperatures and other key safety elements. The USDA stamp on egg cartons is for quality and size. The Arizona Leafy Greens Food Safety Program leads the way in produce safety, setting a standard for other states The Department of Agriculture ensures and national food standards. The monitoring of soil, water, public health by monitoring food from environment and worker sanitation protects against germs. the farm and to the customer. The sanitation of milk and dairy products begins on the farm and continues through production. Dairy farms Cattle health begins on ranches, watching for disease and must meet cleanliness standards before milk is collected. continues at processing plants, where inspectors make sure Transportation to the processing plant has additional the cattle are healthy. Staff thoroughly reviews food safety, sanitation and safety standards. Once at the dairy plans and records. Inspectors monitor the temperatures, plant, milk is protected throughout processing and bottling; testing records, worker’s health and cleanliness of the facility it is tested several times before it goes to the store. before, during and after processing.

32

FRUIT OR HERB Arizona Harvest JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC ANISE ••• • APPLE, AMBROSIA • Schedule APPLE, FUJI •• APPLE, GALA •• APPLE, GOLDEN DELICIOUS ••• Arizona produces food for a well-balanced diet all year APPLE, GRANNY SMITH •• • APPLE, PINK LADY • •• long – from the high country, to the desert, to the lush APPLE, RED DELICIOUS ••• river valleys. There is always something – fruits, vegetables, APPLE, SUNDOWNER • •• APRICOTS •• dates or nuts – being harvested from January to CHERRIES • December. Follow the harvesting calendar to see what CILANTRO •••• •• DATES •• is available every month of the year. DILL ••• •• FIGS •• GRAPEFRUIT, RED BLUSH •••• •••••• •• GRAPEFRUIT, WHITE •••• •••••• •• GRAPES, CONCORD • GRAPES, VARIOUS WINE ••••• LEMONS ••• ••• •• MELONS, CANARY •••• •••••• •• MELONS, CANTALOUPE •••••• • MELONS, CASABA ••••• • MELONS, CRENSHAW ••••• • MELONS, HONEYDEW ••••• • MELONS, ORANGE FLESH •••• MELONS, SANTA CLAUS •••• MELONS, SHARLYN •••• MELONS, SPECIALTY •••• MELONS, WATERMELON •••••• • ORANGES, BLOOD •• • ORANGES, MANDARIN ••• ORANGES, NAVEL •• •• ORANGES, SWEET ••• •• ORANGES, TEMPLE •• • ORANGES, VALENCIA ••• ••• PARSLEY •••• • •• PEACHES ••• PEARS • PLUMS ••• TANGERINES, FAIRCHILD •• TANGELOS, MINNEOLA •• •• TANGELOS, ORLANDO •• ••

• WINTER PRODUCE • SUMMER PRODUCE

34 VEGETABLE VEGETABLE & TREE NUTS JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC ARTICHOKES ••• • PARSNIPS •• ARUGULA •••• •• PEPPERS, GREEN •••• ASPARAGUS ••• • PEPPERS, RED BELL , FAVA ••• •••• BEAN, GREEN ••• PEPPERS, GREEN CHILI ••••• BEAN, PINTO •••• PEPPERS, RED CHILI ••• • BEAN SPROUTS •••• •••••• •• POTATOES, RED • ••• BEETS ••• •• POTATOES, RUSSET • ••• BOK CHOY ••• •• BROCCOLI ••• • •• PUMPKIN •• BROCCOLI, BABY ••• •• RADICCHIO ••• • BRUSSEL SPROUTS ••• • RADISHES •••• • • •• CABBAGE, GREEN •••• •••••• •• RAPINI ••• • CABBAGE, RED •••• • •• SALAD SAVOY CARROTS •••• •••••• •• ••• •• CAULIFLOWER •••• •• SPINACH ••• • •• CAULIFLOWER, GREEN ••• •• SQUASH (SUMMER) CROOKNECK ••••• CELERY ••• •• SQUASH (SUMMER) SCALLOPED ••••• CORN, SWEET •••••• • SQUASH (SUMMER) STRAIGHTNECK CUCUMBER •••• •••••• •• ••••• DAIKON (JAPANESE RADISH) ••• SQUASH (SUMMER) ZUCCHINI ••••• DANDELION •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) ACORN •• • FRISEE •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) •• • GREENS, BEET •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) BUTTERNUT •• • GREENS, COLLARD •••• •• GREENS, MUSTARD •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) GOLD ACORN •• • GREENS, TURNIP •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) HUBBARD •• • KALE •••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) KOBACHA •• • KOHLRABI ••• • SQUASH (WINTER) SPAGHETTI •• • LEEKS ••• •• SQUASH (WINTER) TURBAN LETTUCE, BUTTER/BOSTON ••• •• •• • LETTUCE, ENDIVE ••• •• SWISS CHARD •••• •• LETTUCE, ESCAROLE ••• •• TOMATOES •••• •••••• •• LETTUCE, ICEBERG ••• •• TURNIP •••• •• LETTUCE, LEAF ••• •• JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEPT OCT NOV DEC LETTUCE, ROMAINE ••• •• LETTUCE, SPRING MIX •••• •• PECANS • •• MACHE •••• •• PISTACHIOS •• NAPA •••• •• NAPA CABBAGE ••• • ONIONS, SWEET (DRY) • •••• ONIONS, GREEN •••• ••• ••

• WINTER PRODUCE • SUMMER PRODUCE

35 36 Exports

The diversity of Arizona agriculture produces many types Exporting of high-protein foods to countries where of crops. Arizona grown crops and products are in demand there is a lack of animal protein can contribute to better around the world and throughout the United States. learning. A study published from UCLA in 2010 shows that test scores increased 45% with the addition of meat Different crops and seeds are sold to 70 countries all protein over five school terms. around the world. The full list is too long to include, but some of the countries are , Panama, France, Hong Arizona’s exports are only expected to grow in the Kong, Canada and Mexico. The seeds grown here are future. In partnership with the Western United States in demand for agriculture in Colombia, Denmark, Jamaica, Agricultural Trade Association (WUSATA), the Department is Egypt, Italy and many more. Arizona pecans are demanded connecting producers with exporting companies in several countries because of their size and quality. and markets in other countries. The annual value of all Arizona agricultural exports is over $4.2 billion. wusata.org

According to a 2016 U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agriculture Statistics Service report, animal products exported were worth more than $220 million.

37 Department

Mission: To support and promote Arizona Animal Services – inspecting livestock, meat, egg, dairy agriculture in a way that encourages and animal health farming, ranching and agribusiness, Citrus, Fruit and Vegetable – providing produce protects the well-being of people, plants, inspections and food safety audits animals and the environment while Environmental Services – licensing, consumer protection, safeguarding commerce, consumers worker safety and proper pesticide use and natural resources. Pest Management – protecting consumers with The Department preserves the health of people, animals, licensing and compliance for residential and landscaping plants and natural resources. Every day, department staff pesticide use protect the food supply and ensure food safety. They reduce Plant Services – inspecting plants for export, preventing cost and increase efficiency for Arizona businesses by and containing pest threats providing federal services. Each division/program within the Department delivers a variety of services for industry: State Laboratory – testing of milk, meat, feed, seed, fertilizer and Agricultural Consultation and Training – providing training on pesticide safety, food safety and agricultural Weights and Measures Services – protecting consumers air quality; council and grant management and industry with accurate measurements

38 39 Partners

extension.arizona.edu/4h agribusinessarizona.org arizonabeef.org azcattlemensassoc.org

azcottongrowers.com azfb.org agriculture.az.gov azleafygreens.org

arizonamilk.org azna.org arizonapecan.com azwinefestivals.com

40 hickmanseggs.com goodegg.com uda.coop usda.gov

wga.com wusata.org yumafreshveg.com

41

Research Photo Credits

Arizona Chamber of Commerce Agribusiness & Water Council of Arizona Arizona Commerce Authority Arizona Beef Council Aspen Media & Market Research, Civano Nursery Profile of U.S. Cattlemen, July 2010 Department staff The Beef Checkoff Program Mark W. Killian, Director University of Arizona Steven Lomadafkie Yuma Center of Excellence Chris J. Minnick for Desert Agriculture Julie Murphree cals.arizona.edu Joan Murphy ers.usda.gov Kurt D. Nolte nass.usda.gov Dr. Barry Pryor Edwin Remsberg David W. Schafer Colleen Tessay Bart Worthington

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Arizona Department of Agriculture 1688 W. Adams Street, Phoenix, AZ 85007

agriculture.az.gov