Editor’s note: We recently had the pleasure of coming across a compelling and data-driven report about the 100-mile circle of land surrounding the City of Fresno. The Kings River watershed being squarely within this region. With permission from the report authors at Harrison Co. we are pleased to share some summary points of the report and our thoughts.
In the heart of California, encompassing all of the Kings River watershed, lies a remarkable and precious region known as the 100 Mile Circle. “Spanning from Modesto to Bakersfield and Salinas to the west, this relatively small area represents less than 1% of the total land mass in the U.S. Yet, it produces an astonishing 60% of the country’s fruits and nuts and over 30% of its vegetables”, states the report. This fertile land, “perfected by nature”, has become the backbone of America’s food supply, making it a critical resource that must be preserved for the sake of our food independence and national security the report points out.
Of all the arable land – land capable of producing crops – in the world, North America has the most per capita. While “China is ranked as the largest agricultural producer in the world… considering the size of its population, its food supply could become dangerously limited… without U.S. imports” explained the report. This means our production and export market is hugely important to us and the rest of the world. But these lands are being lost to “urban encroachment, soil erosion, and land degradation.”
There are other numerous challenges to growing food and keeping family-owned and run farms thriving in our little pocket of California. The report underscores political and social “indifference” to these challenges as ranking highest among reasons which include climate change and drought. The region’s farmers are among the most innovative in the world, constantly improving their farming practices and embracing technology to enhance food production. The true danger lies in “indifference” – a lack of understanding and appreciation for the vital role that food production plays in our national security and global economic position. This indifference has led to insufficient infrastructure spending, increased urban sprawl, and a disconnect between the urban populations and the labor and resources required to grow the food that fills the grocery shelves.
The importance of protecting the 100 Mile Circle is crucial for three primary reasons as stated in the report. Firstly, agriculture is the only U.S. sector that has consistently posted a trade surplus for over 50 years. The economic value of this region cannot be overstated. It is supporting jobs and sustaining family-run businesses. Secondly, as diets evolve and the global population continues to grow, America’s position as the world’s largest food exporter will play an increasingly significant role in the global economy. Lastly, maintaining food independence is not just about providing a healthy and transparent food supply; it’s a matter of national security.
As we see it, utilizing conservation as a tool for supporting farmers and ranchers through the use of conservation easements poses a real advantage for our land managers and those of us who benefit from their stewardship. With the numerous regulations and challenges our landowners face, the threat of urban development doesn’t need to be one of them.
An agricultural conservation easement gives land stewards the necessary time and space to fully leverage their innovative skills. This allows them to further refine sustainable farming practices, ranging from advanced irrigation to water-saving strategies, and to improve soil health, thus boosting long-term productivity.
The 100 Mile Circle is renowned for having the world’s largest reserve of Class 1 (prime) soil. This extraordinary soil supports a diverse range of crops. By applying conservation easements, we not only preserve the farming and ranching lands but also empower the land stewards to continue their tradition of progress and innovation. This synergy is a formula for success in our region.
Bill Harrison, Managing Partner at Harrison Co., emphasizes the strategic and economic value of the 100 Mile Circle, stating, “We believe there is no other region in the world, other than those rich in oil reserves, with the same strategic and economic value to the U.S. as the 100 Mile Circle.”
Nancy Ervin, Partner at Harrison Co., highlights the importance of recognizing the critical role of the 100 Mile Circle in providing a quality food supply, promoting California’s economy, and securing the country’s role as the world’s premier food basket.
Conservation organizations, such as Kings River Land Trust, play a vital role in supporting farmers and ranchers here in the Kings River watershed, also within the 100 Mile Circle. These organizations work hand-in-hand with our agriculture communities to promote sustainable practices, provide assistance, and support their role in safeguarding our lands for future generations.
Kings River Land Trust is pleased to have permission to share the full report with you. While you may or may not agree with all of the conclusions in the report, we thank Harrison Co. and highly recommend you read it. Go here to access The 100 Circle Mile Report.