The County of Ventura Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures presented the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report to the Ventura County Board of Supervisors during their regular meeting on Tuesday, June 23. The annual publication, which provides a snapshot of the county’s farming industry, reported the gross value of agriculture at $2,409,748,000, a 4% increase from 2024.
In addition to production statistics, the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report examines the economic realities facing Ventura County’s agricultural community. Through its theme, “Making Cents of Agricultural Production,” the report explores rising costs across six key production categories – labor, land, inputs, plant care, services, and compliance – and highlights the resilience and innovation that continue to drive Ventura County agriculture.
“Agriculture remains one of Ventura County’s defining industries and an essential part of our economy, our environment, and our way of life,” said Chair of the Board Jeff Gorell. “The annual Crop and Livestock Report highlights not only the tremendous value of our agricultural sector, but also the resilience and innovation of the growers, farmworkers, and agricultural businesses that sustain our communities. We are grateful for their continued contributions and their commitment to feeding our region and the world.”
Strawberries remained Ventura County’s top crop in 2025, followed by avocados and nursery stock. The county’s top 10 agricultural commodities for 2025 were:
- Strawberries
- Avocados
- Nursery Stock
- Raspberries
- Lemons
- Celery
- Blackberries
- Peppers
- Blueberries
- Cilantro
Strawberries led all crops with a production value of $807,846,000. Lemons posted one of the strongest gains among the top commodities, increasing 54% in value to $181,692,000. Strong production helped Ventura County rise to second in California for lemon commodity value.
“This year’s theme, ‘Making Cents of Agricultural Production,’ examines the growing costs associated with farming and the impact those expenses have on crop production,” said Agricultural Commissioner Korinne Bell. “While Ventura County agriculture continued to generate strong value in 2025, labor remains the largest cost factor across our top crops. We are proud to work alongside local growers and farmworkers every day to support a strong agricultural industry and identify innovative solutions that help ensure its long-term success.”
Ventura County continues to rank 10th among California’s leading agricultural counties and remains a top producer of avocados, cilantro, and raspberries. The county’s diverse farming sector includes fruit, vegetables, and nursery crops grown across approximately 98,470 acres of irrigated farmland, representing about 8.36% of the county’s total land area.
In addition to production statistics, the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report highlights the strength and resilience of local agriculture. It underscores the important role growers and farmworkers play in supporting the regional economy while showcasing the Department of Agriculture’s efforts in pest prevention, consumer protection, regulatory oversight, and environmental stewardship.
“Ventura County’s success as a leading agricultural region is made possible through strong partnerships among growers, farmworkers, agricultural organizations, residents, and public agencies,” said Dr. Sevet Johnson, County Executive Officer. “This year’s report highlights the dedication and hard work of our local growers that continue to sustain one of the county’s most important industries.”
Since 1895, under the direction of the Board of Supervisors, the Department of Agriculture/Weights and Measures has worked in cooperation with the California Departments of Food and Agriculture and Pesticide Regulation, agricultural community partners, residents and others to protect and promote agriculture through pesticide use enforcement, permitting, quality control, export certification and related services.
To read the 2025 Crop and Livestock Report, please visit: awm.venturacounty.gov/crop-reports/