November kicks off Arizona lettuce and leafy greens harvest and celebration

(Jon Dinsmore)

Arizona’s Governor Ducey has proclaimed November 2021 as Arizona Leafy Greens month.

Through this proclamation he called upon all residents to recognize the Arizona leafy greens industry during the month of November for consistently producing an abundance of nutritious and safe leafy greens.

Arizona is known as the winter lettuce capital of the US providing Americans with an abundance of lettuce and leafy greens from November to March. According to United States Department of Agriculture statistics Arizona farmers grow approximately 25% of the total U.S. lettuce supply each year. The mild desert climate allows for leafy greens farming in Arizona for only five months out of the year, making their contribution to the nation’s lettuce supply substantial in the winter months.

Leafy greens farming in Arizona is big business that involves the work of many family farms. On an annual basis the leafy greens farming community in Arizona generates a $2 billion impact. Perhaps most importantly, Arizona farmers are committed to growing and harvesting safe lettuce and leafy greens through the Arizona LGMA food safety certification program.

During the month of November, the leafy greens farming community will be celebrating through a variety of outreach activity on social media. Food influencer Diana Brandt, aka the Arizona Foodie, will visit a lettuce farm to highlight the contributions of Arizona agriculture for her more than 150,000 followers. Farmer influencer Jon Dinsmore will takeover Arizona LGMA’s social feeds to help people see the farming aspect of Arizona leafy greens. And throughout the month there will be contests and giveaways on the organization’s Instagram and Facebook channels.

 

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.