Guilford County Agriculture

Even though Guilford is the third most populous county in North Carolina and known as an urban county, agriculture still plays an important role in the overall economy. Estimated 1995 income from field crops, livestock and poultry was $30 million.

The major uses of land for agricultural purposes are: 45,000 acres in crops; 29,000 acres in pastures; 41,000 acres in woodland.

Flue-cured tobacco is the major field crop accounting for over $14 million in income from just under 4,000 acres in 1995. Other major crops are corn, soybeans, and small grain.

Livestock(beef cattle, horses, hogs, and sheep) account for over 8 million dollars in farm income. Guilford County has the largest horse population of any county in North Carolina. Of the 8 million dollars in livestock income, horses accounted for over 4.6 million.

The dairy industry in Guilford County contributes $7.5 million dollars to the economy. Although the dairy industry is continually undergoing change, it plays an important role in providing open spaces throughout Guilford County. Because the dairy animal is a ruminant, four stomached animal, it is able to consume and utilize many industrial and agricultural by- products as feed. This recycling improves the environment while providing less expensive feeds. Dairy producers have used the manure generated on their farms as a source of fertilizer and a means to improve their fields. Greater than 80% of the milk produced in Guilford County is used for fluid consumption which provides an excellent source of calcium and protein for the consuming public. Guilford County ranks third in farm income from the sale of milk in the Triad area. Income generated from the sale of milk accounts for 6.7% of the total Guilford County farm income.