Economic Viability Is Key To Sustainability
Avocados have been grown in California for more than a century. They are an important part of California history, culture and cuisine. And similar to any business, for the California Avocado industry to be sustainable it must be economically viable — it has to be strong enough to provide a living for those working in it. California Avocado growers are faced with many challenges, and they toil day-in and day-out to ensure that their groves and businesses are healthy. Some are new to the business and are learning from a community of growers helping other growers learn the best practices in avocado cultivation. Many come from families who have been growing California Avocados for generations – the ultimate proof of an economically sustainable operation.
Economic studies indicate that the California Avocado industry provides for more than 14,510 jobs on a full-time equivalent basis as a result of their business activities and the multiplier effect created by the fact that their purchases create jobs in a variety of farming and non-farming economic sectors. So, every California Avocado you enjoy in a salad, on toast, in a smoothie or however you like it helps contribute to employment in the state.
Land And Varieties
It is said that land is a farmer’s most valuable asset. Caring for that land is paramount for success. California Avocado growers care for their groves and also continuously strive for yield improvements that deliver more avocados per acre. This can involve different planting schematics, such as high-density planting, tree height maintenance to aid in harvesting and timely pruning of their trees. Different practices work for different avocado groves. While the Hass avocado, a California native, accounts for the vast majority of the California Avocado harvest, some growers are improving their economic viability by adding additional avocado varieties to their groves.
