A survey of the commercial horticulture food crops industry in Iowa showed direct specialty crop sales of more than $79 million in 2022 and even higher figures of economic output attributable to the industry. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) announced the results of the 2023 survey Wednesday and said it shows the local produce industry is “diverse, growing, and making a significant contribution to Iowa’s economy and agricultural identity.” The survey was sent to Iowa specialty crop producers who grow edible crops such as vegetables, fruits, berries, nuts, honey, maple syrup, herbs, mushrooms and pumpkins. According to a news release from IDALS, this is the first “comprehensive look” at the industry since 2015. More than 850 specialty farmers participated in the survey, which found that a total of 11,650 acres of specialty crops were grown in 2023. Sales from these farms had a statewide economic output of $66.5 million in 2023 and supported $29.9 million in labor.
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