The Grower Shipper Association of Central California recently conducted a survey of residents in the Bay Area and the Central Coast region. The results show that 77% believe ag is very important to quality of life and the California economy.
The same amount support the employment of H-2A guest workers. Yet about half of the respondents expressed concern about the pressure these workers add to housing.
Regarding water quality, more than half said agricultural runoff is a concern. Pesticides are seen as beneficial by 42% of respondents, while 23% are unsure about that.
For the association, the survey findings “show that Californians want and need more information about issues impacting agriculture and our industry's response.” A white paper on the results will soon be available.
