MONTEREY, CA - Back in mid-March, we reported on another California storm that brought an onslaught of rain to several growing regions throughout the state. In a recent report from the County of Monterey Agricultural Commissioner’s Office, survey results showed that in total, 20,073 acres of agricultural land was impacted, leading to $600 million in damages.

“This has proven to be one of the most difficult winters many of our growers and communities have experienced in our area,” said Juan Hidalgo, County of Monterey Agricultural Commissioner. “I am hopeful that having a full picture of the extent of this winter’s damage will open new recovery opportunities and assistance to our impacted growers.”

In the first survey of flood and storm damage conducted in March, officials found that impacts of the January storms totaled $336 million. After the second survey, it was reported that additional damages of $264 million were measured following storms in March.

According to King City Rustler, approximately 8,736 acres of crops were destroyed or unable to be planted due to the flooding in March. Strawberry crops in particular took a hard hit in the Pajaro Valley; reported damages totaling $160 million impacted 1,919 acres of land. Lettuces, vegetables, and caneberries were among the other crops most significantly impacted.

As industry operators work to repair the damages of these storms, ANUK will be here to keep you informed.