Agriculture in Graham and Greenlee Counties: An Economic Contribution Study

Abstract

Graham and Greenlee counties, in eastern Arizona, are largely rural counties with agricultural industries that include crop production along the Gila River and livestock grazing throughout the region’s remote and rugged public lands. The significance of agriculture in these counties’ economies is not limited to on-farm production. By purchasing inputs such as seed, fertilizer, feed crops, banking services, and hiring labor, a “ripple” of economic activity is created in other industries providing those goods and services. Additionally, households that derive income from agriculture contribute to the local economy by purchasing household goods and services. Economists call these indirect and induced multiplier effects.