Field crops are cultivated on approximately 800 thousand acres in Arizona with an estimated value of 617 million dollars. These crops have a reputation for some of the highest yields and best quality in the nation. Field crop production in the desert southwest is intensely managed with relatively high input cost. This in combination with reduced prices brought on by globalization of agricultural markets have narrowed profit margins for Arizona producers.

The combination of state wide and county level research and extension activities provide timely, non-biased information concerning new technology and crop production practices that can aid Arizona producers in remaining competitive in the global market.