Despite decline, agriculture still big industry

For all of the concern being expressed about the future of farming in northcentral Pennsylvania, the industry still boasts impressive numbers:

Potter County: There are 345 active farms, using 94,396 acres. Average farm is 275 acres. Agriculture accounts for 483 jobs, with 213 associated jobs created. There are 13,720 cattle and calves; 18,500 acres in hay production and 7,400 acres of corn grown for grain. Market value of all crops is about $26.4 million annually.

McKean County: There are 265 active farms, using 41,634 acres. Average farm is 157 acres. Agriculture accounts for 306 jobs, with 68 associated jobs created. There are 4,041 cattle and calves; 11,400 acres in hay production and 1,800 acres of corn grown for grain. Market value of all crops is about $4.8 million annually.

Cameron County: There are 35 active farms, using 4,254 acres. Average farm is 122 acres. Agriculture accounts for 35 jobs. There are 228 cattle and calves; 800 acres in hay production and 300 acres of corn grown for grain. Market value of all crops is about $335,000 annually.