PHOENIX, AZ - While I may no longer be an Arizona resident, I’m still rallying behind my home state in its recent decision to spotlight a vital segment of the produce industry. Arizona’s Governor Ducey has proclaimed November 2021 as Arizona Leafy Greens month, and has called upon consumers to recognize the industry for its efforts to consistently provide nutritious and safe leafy greens. As the celebration kicks off, Arizona Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement (AZ LGMA) is rolling out new strategies to boost suppliers all month long.

Arizona farmers are committed to growing and harvesting safe lettuce and leafy greens through the AZ LGMA food safety certification program. On an annual basis, the leafy greens farming community in Arizona generates a $2 billion impact, a recent press release from the AZ LGMA noted, as the state provides an abundance of lettuce and leafy greens from November through March.

The mild desert climate allows Arizona farmers to grow leafy greens only five months out of the year, making the state’s contribution to the nation’s lettuce supply substantial throughout the winter months. Despite limitations posed by the weather, Arizona farmers grow approximately 25 percent of the total U.S. lettuce supply each year, according to United States Department of Agriculture statistics.

To spotlight the vital sector and the state’s contribution to the industry, the leafy greens farming community will be celebrating through a variety of outreach activities on social media. The Arizona Foodie, Food Influencer Diana Brandt, will highlight the contributions of Arizona agriculture to her more than 150,000 followers during her visit to a lettuce farm. Furthering its digital strategy, Farmer Influencer Jon Dinsmore will take over Arizona LGMA’s social feeds to help showcase the farming aspect of producing Arizona leafy greens.

Contests and giveaways will also be hosted throughout the month on the organization’s Instagram and Facebook channels.

I’m always ready to add another reason for celebration to my calendar. So, with that being said, happy Arizona Leafy Greens month!

Arizona Leafy Greens Marketing Agreement