Agricultural
Economic
Development Program
The Agricultural Economic Development Program was initially approved by the Board of County Commissioners in December 1994. The purpose of the initiative is to provide support to increase the economic viability of Palm Beach County's agricultural and equine industries by protecting existing agricultural interests and supporting new farming operations. This goal will be pursued respecting the interrelationships of agriculture with tourism, the environment, infrastructure, and other non-agricultural aspects of the County's diverse economy.
The priorities of the Agricultural Economic Development Program are outlined below.
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Supporting the Agricultural Enhancement Council (AEC) through coordinating meeting dates, agendas, agenda items, and membership
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Coordinating with the Palm Beach County Planning, Zoning, and Building Department and Property Appraiser's Office on topics impacting or related to agriculture
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Providing assistance to agricultural operators navigating the agricultural permitting processes related to County regulations
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Participating in County projects related to transportation that can impact and/or support agriculture movement of goods, such as the Countywide Transportation Master Plan
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Coordinating with agricultural operators on agritourism
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Development GIS data and maps, including assisting PZB
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Monitoring & reviewing pending Florida and Federal legislation impacting agriculture
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Coordinating with County Agencies on the promotion of agricultural interests, including but not limited to, PZB, Engineering and Public Works, Legislative Affairs, Business Development Board, and the Tourist Development Council
Agriculture Facts
With an estimated $1.397 billion in total agricultural sales for 2019-2020, Palm Beach County leads the State of Florida, all counties east of the Mississippi River, and its one of the ten largest in the United States.
Palm Beach County leads the nation in the production of sugarcane, fresh sweet corn, and sweet bell peppers. It leads the State in the production of rice, lettuce, radishes, Chinese vegetables, specialty leaf, and celery.