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Idaho Crops

Agriculture continues to be a major economic contributor to the state of Idaho adding over $3.9 billion annually to the state’s economy.  Idaho growers currently produce a variety of commercial and nationally important agricultural crops. In fact, the state boasts over 90 different crops, including more than 20 seed crops.  The majority of these crops are located in specific areas of the state or on small acreages across a wider geographical region. These crops are sometimes called “minor crops” because they are produced on 300,000 acres or less on a national basis compared to the millions of acres dedicated to “major” crops. Although minor in acreage when compared to crops such as corn and soybeans, they are a major contributor to the state’s economy, and to national production. Idaho continues to rank first in the nation for potato production, contributing 29% to the overall national production. Austrian winter peas produced in Idaho make up 82% of the national crop. Idaho’s malting barley production is ranked second nationally. Because of the high quality of the crop, national brewers are increasing their contracted acres in Idaho. Overall, Idaho ranks tenth in the nation for the value of its minor crop production. According to the Idaho Agricultural Statistics Service, several crops produced in Idaho consistently rank in the top ten of national production: lentils, sugarbeets, alfalfa hay, dry edible peas, mint, hops, onions, plums, wheat, dry edible beans, sweet cherries and apples.

To see a complete list of crops grown in every Idaho county, download the Crops Grown in Idaho Counties spreadsheet. To view management information on specific Idaho Crops, view the Crop Group page.

Revised: March 06, 2006

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