Yesterday, I was discussing the Californias economy and our dependence on immigrant workers to keep our economy afloat because, as we all know, California leads the nation in agricultural production and it is the kingpin of our economy.
Guess what? I got slammed.
My friend gently corrected me with the following points;
1) Agriculture is a
minor player in California. It is eclipsed by tech production, service industry, financial services and a host of other industries.
http://www.tradeport.org/news/gross_state_product.html
2) California agriculture is
heavily subsidized. Farms use 85% of our water and pay less than 10% of the bill through ancient land/water use agreements. Without subsidies and government support, California agriculture
can not compete in a free market.
3) When farmland is converted to housing, a net savings in water usage is observed and a net increase in tax revenue. (Yikes!)
My friend is of the opinion that the California economy would be healthier if we outsourced more food production to Mexico. I am still trying to confirm the numbers, but my friend believes illegal immigrant labor costs the state far more in public services than is gained by their contribution to the state economy.
All of this information is in direct opposition to opinions I have held and expressed in the past. Any thoughts?