By Pacific Coast Business Times Staff Sunday, April 19th, 2009

The oldest industry in the Tri-Counties once again is proving its worth to the overall economy.

Santa Barbara County reports its crops brought in $1 billion in gross revenue for another year, with strawberries, broccoli and wine grapes leading the way.

This is important revenue for the region and it underscores the need for sound and sensible land use policies that allow our farmers to operate on their land with enough freedom to make an honest buck.

Agriculture has become a highly regulated industry in recent years and while some restrictions on pesticides and water use are pragmatic, there should be limits to government’s ability to trample on property rights.

To see agriculture hold its own in a time when revenue in other businesses is plunging underscores the importance of this sector to a healthy and diversified economy.

Are you a subscriber? If not, sign up today for a four-week FREE trial or subscribe and receive the 2009 Book of Lists free with your purchase.