Sonoma County reports $857.6 million in agricultural production for 2024; highlights resilience of poultry producers, shifts in grape and apple markets

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Sonoma County’s agricultural production reached a total value of $857,620,400 in 2024, a 9.3 percent decrease from the previous year, according to the annual Crop Report released today by the Sonoma County Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures. 

The 2024 Crop Report provides a detailed look at the county’s top commodities, industry trends, and highlights of departmental work in pest management, land stewardship, and weights and measures. First compiled in 1928, the report is a vital resource for economic development, tourism, financing, and historical analysis. 

“Sonoma County’s agricultural community continues to demonstrate resilience in the face of challenges, from market fluctuations to disease outbreaks,” said Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, chair of the Board of Supervisors. “This year’s report underscores the dedication of our farmers, ranchers, and producers who bring high-quality, sustainable products to local residents, restaurants, and markets.” 

Key Findings: 

• Winegrapes remained Sonoma County’s leading commodity with a value of $626,550,200, a 12.6 percent decrease from 2023. Harvested tonnage fell 12.2 percent to 211,511.6 tons, with demand pressures leaving significant tonnage on the vine. 
• Apples rebounded strongly, posting a 21 percent increase in total value thanks to improved tonnage and favorable late-season prices. 
• Livestock and poultry products rose 1.97 percent overall, though industry-specific impacts varied. Milk production climbed 37.4 percent, with organic milk up nearly 50 percent, while poultry products declined nearly 49 percent due to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. 
• Nursery products declined 7.3 percent overall, with gains in cut flowers (+8.6 percent) and Christmas trees (+33.4 percent) offset by declines in bedding plants (-9.6 percent) and miscellaneous nursery demand (-22.4 percent). 
• Cannabis cultivation totaled 13.46 acres with a production value of $12,197,400, down from $25.7 million in 2023. 

The 2024 report highlights Sonoma County’s historical poultry and egg production. While the industry is smaller than in its 1940s heyday, when the county was known as the “Egg Basket of the World,” local producers continue to play an essential role in the economy. Despite challenges from rising costs and HPAI outbreaks, Sonoma County’s egg and poultry farmers remain committed to producing sustainable and organic products for the community. 

The complete 2024 Sonoma County Crop Report is available online at: https://sonomacounty.gov/natural-resources/agriculture-weights-and-measures/crop-reports. 

The Department of Agriculture/Weights & Measures is responsible for promoting and protecting agriculture, land stewardship, and fair commerce in Sonoma County. The Crop Report reflects data from more than 1,000 local producers, whose participation makes this annual publication possible. 

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Media Contact: 
Dan Virkstis, communications specialist 
publicaffairs@sonoma-county.org  
707-565-3040