Agriculture: A Cornerstone
of Washington's Economy

Rich soils, diverse climates and large-scale irrigation make Washington one of the most productive growing regions in the world. The state's deep-water ports and its proximity to important Asian markets also provide natural advantages for agricultural trade.

• The state's $38 billion food and agriculture industry employs 160,000 people and contributes 12% percent to the state's economy.

• Nearly $14.8 billion in food and agricultural products were exported through Washington ports in 2008, the third largest total in the U.S.

Top Crops
Washington's 39,000 farms power a diverse agricultural economy, led by the state's apple industry with 59 percent of  U.S. production.  In addition to the top 10 commodities listed below, the Evergreen State is a major producer of hops, farm forest products, fish and shellfish, raspberries and mint oils. 

View updated maps of Washington's top crops and food processing industries and USDA's "Pride  of Washington State" brochure, based on the federal agency's 2007 Census  of Agriculture.