Analyzing Shifts in Agricultural Producers Between 2017 & 2022: USDA Census of Agriculture Data

This dissertation examines demographic and production shifts in United States agriculture between the 2017 and 2022 USDA Census of Agriculture, with particular attention to Hispanic, female, and young producers, as well as specialty crop, berry, and organic farming operations. Guided by structural inequality theory, the study situates these trends within broader economic, social, and policy frameworks that continue to shape access, opportunity, and outcomes for diverse producer groups. An ex post facto, causal-comparative quantitative design drew on USDA datasets to identify patterns of change over time during which the impact of COVID-19 was measured. The results reveal a decline in the number of Hispanic and young producers nationally, coupled with a very limited increase in female participation. Specialty crop and organic production also experienced decreases, despite rising consumer demand for sustainable and diversified products. Regional analysis of California highlights similar dynamics, particularly in the Salinas Valley, where land costs, capital requirements, and labor markets reinforce structural barriers to entry and sustainability for smaller scale and minority producers. These findings contribute to the field of agricultural studies by challenging prior assumptions of continuous growth in specialty and organic sectors and by documenting persistent demographic inequities in farm ownership and participation. The study underscores the need for policy reforms to reduce barriers and support underrepresented groups. Limitations include reliance on secondary census data and the absence of qualitative perspectives from producers themselves. Future research should address these limitations through mixed methods approaches, expanded regional analysis, and evaluating long-term changes. Ultimately, the dissertation demonstrates that while demographic diversification is evident in U.S. agriculture, structural inequality continues to constrain the ability of Hispanic, female, and young producers to fully participate and thrive.