Ensuring Agriculture for Tomorrow (part 1)

Agriculture is the leading industry sector in California's Central Valley. But agriculture is changing. Its changing because of technology, and its changing because of water.

Due to ongoing water delivery reductions, over 1/3 of ag land in western Fresno County is not currently producing crops. Hundreds of thousands of acres are intentionally left fallow because there is no adequate water delivery system. This lack of water exacerbates the already high unemployment and poverty levels on the Valley's west side.

In the 3,000 square miles of the West Hills Community College District, much of the population exists on $17,000 per year per family—$10,000 less that the California poverty level. Quality jobs are the solution.

The Department of Labor EAT (Ensuring Agriculture for Tomorrow) grant allows community partners to collectively build a comprehensive net of services. Together, they will create pathways out of poverty.

This video was made possible by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• WHCCD
• WIB
• SCCCD
• Fresno City College
• Madera Center
• Farm of the Future
• Reedley College
• water
• agriculture
• jobs
• training