RELEASE FROM Paul Dictos, C.P.A. Assessor-Recorder:
The drought being experienced in the San Joaquin Valley is unprecedented. Orchards are being removed and ground is being fallowed for lack of water. Farmland without water is wasteland, and wasteland does not register on our County’s tax roll. The value of this beautiful farmland will soon be diminished, and, consequently, the local economy will be adversely affected. Revenue to local, state and even federal governments will be reduced as a result. As the Fresno County Assessor, I must follow assessment and tax laws including the statutory tax rate set by Proposition 13. However, for the 1.7 million acres of farmland currently under Williamson Act contract, I will be evaluating the impacts of the drought.
My staff and I will be contacting farmers to collect data and information to enable our office to develop the correct agricultural land and improvements values during this drought. The lands affected by the lack of water will likely have to be adjusted. Areas to be examined include the changes or fallowing occurring to agricultural land use; reported market rents for Williamson Act properties; and the risk factor due to this unprecedented mega drought. While this water situation is unfortunate for Fresno County’s farmers, ranchers, and our community, I look forward to assisting in my elected capacity.Those with input on the effect of drought on their agricultural lands, can contact my office at (559) 600-3534.
