Relative to California Agriculture Day.
The resolution reflects a commitment to recognizing the contributions of California's agricultural community and underscores the relevance of agricultural education. It notes significant advancements in agricultural production over the past seven decades, which have decreased consumer food costs and facilitated the state’s leadership as a major agricultural exporter. Specifically, in 2019, California exported over $21 billion in agricultural commodities, illustrating the sector's importance not just domestically but internationally as well.
Senate Resolution No. 73, introduced by Senators Borgeas and others, designates March 23, 2022, as California Agriculture Day. The resolution celebrates the significance of agriculture in California, which has maintained its status as the top agricultural state in the USA for over 60 years. It underscores the vital role of agriculture in sustaining the state's economy, which ranks as the fifth largest in the world, and emphasizes the importance of farmworkers in the success of this industry. Furthermore, it highlights the variety of crops and livestock produced in California, boasting around 400 agricultural products that contribute to nearly 50% of the nation's supply of fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
The overall sentiment surrounding SR 73 appears to be overwhelmingly positive, celebrating the agricultural sector's contributions and recognizing the hard work of farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. There is a general appreciation for the community's role in feeding the nation and the world, as well as for the advancements in agricultural practices that have made California a leader in innovation and quality in agriculture. The resolution fosters a sense of pride and acknowledgment for those in the agricultural field.
While SR 73 does not present significant points of contention, it addresses broader issues such as the projected loss of agricultural land in California, with estimates suggesting a loss of 500,000 acres by the year 2050. This highlights concerns regarding land conservation and the need for continued efforts to preserve California's agricultural heritage. The resolution implicitly calls for vigilance and proactive measures to counter threats to the agricultural landscape—a consideration that may generate dialogue amongst stakeholders on land use and conservation policies.