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Critical Issues
. . .At A Glance
basket of vegetables 8KB

      Agriculture is a billion dollar industry in San Diego County. There are, however, critical issues important to the industry's survival. As San Diego County grows and moves into the twenty-first century, agriculture must adapt to changing needs and demands to remain sustainable and successful.



AGRICULTURAL TOURISM & ATTRACTIONS

     One important way for agriculture to remain sustainable is through agricultural tourism. Through tourism, the public has an opportunity to experience San Diego County agriculture. This is not only beneficial economically to San Diego County, but can also create public interest and support for maintaining agricultural production.

Agricultural Attractions:

carlsbad flower fields 81KB The Flower Fields - 50 acres of ranunculus blooming March through May overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Carlsbad

Bellefleur - Tuscan style winery and restaurant featuring operating vineyards and winery in Carlsbad

Bell Gardens - 115 acres of cultivated fields, creek beds, walking trails and lawns offering produce, workshops, and seasonal events in Valley Center

Summers Past Farms - herbal gardens and shoppes featuring herbal craft workshops and soapmaking in Flinn Springs

More Attractions... - a list of many other agricultural attractions in San Diego County

Annual Agricultural Festivals and Events:
*Fallbrook Avocado Festival (April)
*Escondido Grape Day Festival (September)
*Julian apple season (October)
*Fallbrook Farmer's Festival (October)


Certified Farmers' Markets

Certified Farmers' Market 12KB-link to more info

      One of the best ways to directly experience San Diego County's freshest local produce is by visiting one of the Certified Farmers' Markets. These markets are certified by the State, ensuring that the produce is being sold by the grower, is grown in California and meets all California quality standards.



AG/URBAN INTERFACE

border planting 58K      Agricultural production fields are frequently located near housing tracts, shopping center, roadways, schools, and parks. The viability of this interface depends on the ability of growers to allow their neighbors to enjoy the full benefits of their property. Growers must minimize the noise, dust, flies, spray drift, odors, and field worker improprieties that can be associated with agricultural enterprises.

"Protective Border Plantings for Ag/Urban Interfaces & Beneficial Insect Support"
Wayne L. Schrader, Vegetable and Strawberry Farm Advisor, UCCE San Diego



ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

     Agricultural practices have changed over time to become more efficient and produce larger yields. As concerns for the environment have grown, the agricultural industry has responded with practices aimed at maintaining clean air, water, and soil. Environmental issues can range from responsible chemical use to managing agricultural runoff.

giant reed (arundo donax) 30KBGIANT REED
     One important issue facing land owners and managers is the management of invasive weeds. One example is Arundo donax, commonly known as Giant Reed. This exotic invasive weed is increasingly becoming overgrown in river and creek beds. It has the ability to choke out native species and to subsequently cause flood control problems, fire hazards, and a reduction in wildlife habitat. This plant also uses enormous amounts of water to grow and spreads quickly. Controlling the Giant Reed is important in maintaining the riparian areas in San Diego County.
San Luis Rey River Watershed Council

blue and green rule line 2KB

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