According to Hudson (Chapter 26), which of the following statements is TRUE?
Grapes are the Sacramento Valley’s leading crop
California is the second largest producer of dairy behind Wisconsin
California is the largest producer of upland cotton
Mexican Americans account for about 10% of the farm operators in California
California is the second largest producer of long-staple cotton
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is: Grapes are the Sacramento Valley’s leading crop.
Explanation:
The Sacramento Valley, located in California, is known for its agricultural production, and grapes are indeed one of the primary crops grown in the region. The valley’s Mediterranean climate is ideal for growing a variety of fruits, with grapes being a particularly prominent crop. These grapes are not only used for fresh consumption but also for producing wine, making California one of the largest wine-producing states in the U.S.
The other options provided are incorrect for the following reasons:
- California is the second-largest producer of dairy behind Wisconsin: While California is the largest producer of dairy in the United States, it ranks first, not second. Wisconsin used to be the leading state in dairy production but has been overtaken by California.
- California is the largest producer of upland cotton: This statement is inaccurate because Texas, not California, is the largest producer of upland cotton. California does produce cotton, but the state’s production is primarily focused on long-staple cotton, which has different characteristics and uses.
- Mexican Americans account for about 10% of the farm operators in California: This statement is also false. Mexican Americans represent a significant portion of farm workers in California, but they do not account for 10% of the farm operators. In fact, farm operators of Mexican descent represent a larger proportion of California’s agricultural workforce.
- California is the second-largest producer of long-staple cotton: This is incorrect as well. California is the largest producer of long-staple cotton, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley, which is ideal for cotton cultivation due to its warm climate and fertile soil.
In summary, the statement about grapes being the Sacramento Valley’s leading crop is true, and the other statements contain inaccuracies about California’s agricultural production.