INTRODUCTION
Sample costs to establish an orchard and produce dates in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County are presented in this study. Operations described are based on production practices considered typical for the area and may not apply to every situation. The study is intended as a guide for making production decisions, estimating potential returns, preparing budgets, and evaluating production loans. A blank “Your Costs” column is provided in the cost tables for entering and comparing your farm costs with ours. The study is based upon on a hypothetical farm size and production practices which are described in the assumption section. For additional information or explanations of the assumptions and cost calculations used in this study, please contact Eta Takele, the Agricultural Economist/Farm Management Advisor, University of California Cooperative Extension-Riverside County (address given at the end of this study).
