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What types of agriculture have you seen in Garfield County?

Published in Garfield County Agriculture 2 mins read

In Garfield County, agriculture is predominantly characterized by livestock production, primarily cattle, supported by extensive crop cultivation focused on forage for animals and cereal grains like wheat.

Dominant Agricultural Practices in Garfield County

Garfield County's agricultural landscape is marked by a significant number of large farms, with approximately 73% of the 260 farms spanning one thousand acres or more. This large-scale farming facilitates the widespread agricultural activities central to the county's economy.

Key Agricultural Sectors

The agricultural activities in Garfield County can be broadly categorized into two main sectors:

Livestock Production

Cattle production plays a vital role in Garfield County's agricultural output. The vast rangelands and large farm sizes provide ample space for cattle ranching, making it a cornerstone of the local economy. This focus on livestock directly influences the types of crops cultivated in the region.

Crop Cultivation

Crop farming in Garfield County is largely geared towards supporting the livestock industry, alongside the production of staple grains. The primary crops grown include:

  • Forage for Livestock: This is the most widely grown crop in the county, indicating its critical role in sustaining the cattle population. Forage crops provide essential feed for livestock throughout the year.
  • Spring Wheat: A significant cereal grain crop cultivated in the area.
  • Winter Wheat: Another important cereal grain, complementing spring wheat production.

To illustrate the types of crops grown and their significance, refer to the table below:

Crop Type Primary Purpose / Significance
Forage for Livestock Most widely grown crop, vital for cattle sustenance
Spring Wheat Key cereal grain for market and feed
Winter Wheat Another significant cereal grain crop

These agricultural practices highlight Garfield County's strong connection to traditional farming and ranching, emphasizing efficiency and scale to support both livestock and crop production. For more information on agricultural practices and conservation, you can explore resources from the Natural Resources Conservation Service.