CDFA Recognizes Hispanic Heritage Month 2025 | September 15 – October 15

Hispanic and Latino producers are a vital part of California agriculture-bringing generations of knowledge and entrepreneurship to farms large and small and everything in between. This Hispanic Heritage Month we celebrate and honor the farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers, whose knowledge, resilience, and care for the land help feed California and the nation. We recognize their critical contributions to the state's food supply, rural economies, and agricultural diversity.

By the Numbers: 2022 Census of Agriculture

• 14,791 Hispanic producers in California
• Hispanic producers represent 12.3% of all producers in California; among young producers, the share is 19.4%
• Hispanic-owned agricultural businesses manage 2,753,532 acres and generate $13.8 billion in agricultural products sold

Hispanic and Latino producers contribute to every sector of California agriculture-from dairy and cattle ranching to vineyards, nuts, berries, fruits, and vegetables. Their work sustains California's top commodities and ensures the state remains a leader in domestic and global food production.

Their contributions include:

• Strengthening top commodities: They help produce California's leading crops - dairy, grapes, almonds, strawberries, lettuce, pistachios, and more - contributing $13.8 billion in agricultural product sales (farms with Hispanic producers - 2022 data).
• Preserving heritage and specialty crops: Many producers maintain culturally significant foods while also introducing innovative crop practices and specialty varieties that broaden the agricultural portfolio.
• Building resilient communities: Through job creation, land stewardship, and local market activity, Hispanic and Latino producers help sustain rural economies and the social fabric of California's farming regions.

Looking Ahead

The growing representation of Hispanic and Latino producers among young and beginning farmers is an encouraging sign for the future for California agriculture. Growing numbers of younger Hispanic producers will help provide continued innovation and cultural richness in the years ahead.

How We're Celebrating

This Hispanic Heritage Month, we are highlighting:

• Infographics and social media posts featuring key production numbers.
• Farmer spotlights-celebrating the stories, families, and innovations of Hispanic and Latino producers.

Resources: Farm Equity Office, Farmer Resource Portal