Agriculture

Mason County is primarily a farming community.

• almost 90% of the land is used for agriculture
• one of the most heavily irrigated areas in Illinois (water from underground reserves)

Roadside Markets

Locally grown, freshly picked, produce is sold at many roadside markets within the county

Pumpkins, Pumpkins, Pumpkins, . . .

• 65% of the United States' pumpkins are grown in the region
• Mason County's sandy soil is favorable for growth of pumpkins

Other Sandy Soil Crops

• watermelon --- top producing area in Illinois
• cantelope --- third in production in Illinois

Traditional Crops

• corn
• soybeans
• wheat

Other Specialty Crops

• apples
• Christmas trees
• cucumbers
• green beans
• peaches
• popcorn
• strawberries
• sweet corn
• suflowers
• tomatoes