American farming surges in U.S. territories as new agricultural census reveals significant growth in both American Samoa and Guam, with thousands of new farms producing millions in sales.
At a Glance
- American Samoa’s farms increased 13% since 2018, reaching 7,157 farms with $35.3 million in sales
- Guam showed dramatic growth with 583 farms, an increase of 319 farms since the last census
- Taro dominates American Samoa’s agriculture while vegetables and melons lead in Guam
- The 2023 Census of Agriculture data will help shape agricultural policies and resource allocation
Territorial Agriculture Shows Remarkable Growth
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service has released the 2023 Census of Agriculture data for American Samoa and Guam, revealing substantial growth in farming operations across both territories. American Samoa reported 7,157 farms covering 9,253 acres, representing a 13% increase in farm numbers since 2018. Meanwhile, Guam experienced even more dramatic growth, with its farming operations increasing to 583 farms—up by 319 farms since the previous census—spread across 2,848 acres of agricultural land.
The census, conducted every five years, provides the most comprehensive picture of agriculture in these territories, capturing everything from farm sizes to crop varieties and sales figures. With an average farm size of just 1.3 acres in American Samoa and 4.9 acres in Guam, these operations demonstrate the effectiveness of small-scale farming in island environments. These detailed statistics serve as crucial benchmarks for measuring agricultural productivity and development in U.S. territories.
Production Value and Agricultural Focus
The economic impact of agriculture in these territories is significant, with American Samoa reporting total agricultural sales of $35.3 million, primarily driven by taro production. This traditional crop continues to dominate American Samoan agriculture, serving both as a commercial crop and a culturally important food source. The territory’s definition of a farm includes any place that raises agricultural products for sale or home consumption, reflecting the importance of subsistence farming to local food security.
In Guam, where farms are defined as operations producing and selling at least $1,000 of agricultural products, the total value of agricultural sales reached $6,162,085. Vegetables and melons represent the island’s largest production category, catering to local consumption needs and reducing dependence on imported produce. This focus on fresh produce aligns with efforts to enhance food security in a region vulnerable to supply chain disruptions due to its remote geographic location in the Pacific.
Strategic Importance of Agricultural Census Data
The agricultural census data serves multiple critical functions beyond mere statistical reporting. Government agencies use this information to develop targeted agricultural policies, allocate resources efficiently, and design support programs that address the specific needs of farmers in these territories. The detailed breakdown of farm types, production methods, and economic outputs provides decision-makers with essential insights for strategic planning and development initiatives.
For agribusinesses and agricultural organizations, the census offers valuable market intelligence that guides investments in farming techniques, infrastructure development, and disaster preparation. With increasing concerns about food security in island territories, this data provides the foundation for building more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural systems. The complete census report and additional data products are available through the NASS website, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in understanding and supporting territorial agriculture.