The latest U.S. Department of Agriculture Census of Agriculture has revealed an increase in the number of farms in New Jersey, bucking the national trend of declining farm numbers. The 2022 census data indicates that New Jersey added 115 new farms, bringing the total to 9,998.
“It is encouraging to see that more residents of our State are taking a deeper interest in our industry by becoming more heavily involved in agriculture,” said Joe Atchison III, New Jersey Assistant Secretary of Agriculture. “This shows there are opportunities to farm in our State. The Census data also confirms how we continue to grow a wide variety of crops to meet the diverse needs of our residents. It’s a great credit to our farmers who continue to adapt to meet the most current demands of consumers.”
New Jersey’s agricultural sales increased from just over $1.1 billion in 2017 to nearly $1.5 billion in 2022. The nursery, greenhouse, floriculture, and sod industry remains the leading sector with sales at nearly $725 million, marking a $225 million rise since the last census.
The vegetable industry is ranked second with nearly $295 million in sales, followed by fruits and berries at nearly $200 million. Together these top three sectors account for more than 80 percent of total agricultural sales in New Jersey.
The census highlighted New Jersey’s position as one of the top producers for several crops nationwide including eggplant at No. 3 and cranberries and asparagus each at No. 4.
Agritourism showed notable growth with total sales increasing from more than $18 million in 2017 to over $29 million.
Despite these positive developments, the amount of land used for farming decreased slightly from 734,000 acres in 2017 to nearly 712,000 acres.
Farm expenses rose by an average of $37,000 per farm annually but remained below the national average increase which exceeded $60,000 per farm.
The Census of Agriculture has been conducted since 1840 and accounts for all U.S. farms and ranches along with their operators. More detailed information will be released throughout 2024.
