Despite its dry climate, the Central Valley has become a major farming region thanks to irrigation. The first irrigation canals were built in the mid-1800s, and by the early 1900s, the Central Valley was producing a wide variety of crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Today, the Central Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world.
There are a number of factors that have contributed to the success of agriculture in the Central Valley. In addition to irrigation, the valley has a long growing season, fertile soil, and a favorable climate. The Central Valley is also home to a large number of migrant farm workers, who provide the labor needed to harvest the crops.
As a result of these factors, the Central Valley has become a major economic driver for the state of California. The agricultural industry in the valley generates billions of dollars in revenue each year and provides jobs for hundreds of thousands of people.