Candace Carnahan, President and CEO of the Grand Junction Area Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the historical and ongoing impact of agriculture in the region in a statement released March 18. The remarks come as the community observes Ag Awareness Week from March 14 to March 24.
Carnahan said that agriculture was more than just an early economic driver for Grand Junction; it helped shape how the community grows, adapts, and conducts business today. She noted that when settlers arrived in the Grand Valley in the early 1880s, they faced significant challenges due to the arid landscape and distance from major markets. “I’m often struck by what that must have required. Irrigation systems began transforming the valley, allowing orchards and farms to take root where little had grown before. With water came opportunity,” Carnahan said.
She highlighted how innovation, perseverance, and strong relationships were essential for early agricultural producers. These qualities led to developments such as irrigation systems and cooperatives like the Grand Junction Fruit Growers Association. By the late 1800s, local orchards were producing enough fruit to attract visitors from across the region, with Mesa County growers shipping large quantities of apples by rail.
Carnahan emphasized that these foundational traits continue to influence Mesa County’s broader economy today. While sectors such as healthcare, energy, advanced manufacturing, outdoor recreation, professional services, and entrepreneurship have become important parts of the local economy, agriculture remains a significant contributor both economically and culturally.
A recent regional study conducted by Colorado Mesa University and the Business Incubator Center found that agriculture supports more than 9,100 jobs across a five-county Western Colorado region and contributes nearly $282 million to regional gross domestic product (GDP). In Mesa County alone, agriculture accounts for over 3,500 jobs and nearly $100 million in GDP.
Carnahan concluded her statement by inviting residents to recognize local growers during Ag Awareness Week: “Their work nourishes more than our tables. It strengthens our economy, preserves the character of our landscape, and carries forward a legacy of perseverance, innovation and pride in place.”
