San Diego County Agriculture: Overview, Challenges and

Opportunities

Ramiro Lobo, Farm AdvisorUCCE San Diego County

North San Diego Business ChamberEconomic Development Committee

San Diego, CA -June 1, 2017

About San Diego County Farmers:

Major Trends Renewed interest in farming and increasing

number of training or apprenticeship programs

Increasing interest and growth in urban food production

Increased interest and growth in controlled environment agriculture/greenhouse production

Increased interest in Food Systems approach – i.e. the San Diego Food Systems Alliance

Friendlier political and regulatory environment

Food and beverage trends (local, beer, wine, cider)