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Deaf Smith County has always been known
for its thriving agriculture industry. A variety of
crops can
be grown in the fertile soil of this area. Crops like corn, wheat, maize,
vegetables, cotton, soybeans, onions, sunflowers, and even fruits are adaptable
to the climate and growing seasons.
Crops are
grown in dry-land and irrigated methods. Small grain crops are sold locally to
supplement the cattle feeding industry while other crops are shipped and sold
outside the area. Most
of the crops are
planted in the spring and harvested in the fall. Wheat, however, is harvested in
the summer. The majority of farms are owned and operated by private individuals.
Large grain elevators handle, store, and market crops for farmers. Hereford is
fortunate to have the facilities and expertise to sustain such a large industry.
Sprinkler
irrigation has just about saturated this area. Everywhere you look, you can see
giant
automatic
sprinkler units that provide efficient management of water resources. They not
only help the farmers manage their watering demands, but also help to conserve
precious water sources.
There are
many related industries that contribute to a successful farming industry. A pet
food manufacturer, flour mill facility, feed mills, cotton gins, chemical
blending plants, grain processing facilities, farm equipment dealerships, metal
fabricating 
facilities,
beef processing plants, certified seed companies, custom spray applicators,
custom harvesting companies, trucking companies, insurance companies, and repair
shops are all examples of business that is created by a strong agricultural
economy.
A favorable climate, hard working people, and a great location help to make Hereford a “standout” in Texas agriculture.