Wine grapes are the top crop in San Luis Obispo County according to the latest numbers from the county's agriculture department. Overall, total production increased by 10 percent last year, with some $220 million in gross sales.
The strawberry industry remained strong in 2013 as well, coming in as the county's second largest crop with $210 million in gross sales.
Gross value for all crops combined in 2013 was nearly $961 million dollars, up 11 percent from the previous year.
"Despite challenging drought conditions and unusual weather in 2013, values reached record-breaking levels, which is a testament to teh perseverance of the local agricultural producers," said Martin Settevendemie, County Agricultural Commissioner.
One area that suffered however was the county's cattle industry as a growing drought put pressure on ranchers to sell off livestock. The "Cattle and Calves" sector still came as the county's third largest ag product at $96 million in gross sales.
Other top crops included:
- Broccoli - $64.1 million
- Avocados - $44.3 million
- Vegetable Transplants - $33.1 million
- Cut Flowers - $26.3 million
Santa Barbara County's ag numbers won't be released until the middle of the month.