Naturally the industries of the county consist in exploiting its
natural resources, and so we find Yakima citizens busy in raising
fruits, hay, grain, and garden vegetables, to supply the big cities
of the Sound. Its last year's contribution will probably exceed
ten million dollars in value.
Of the items which compose this large sum, fruit is probably chief
in importance. Alfalfa and grain-hay is an important item, as is
also the crop of melons and potatoes. The combined fields of alfalfa
and orchards make ideal bee pasturage, and Yakima honey is a constant
factor of barter in the Sound cities. The upland farms produce
quantities of all grains--wheat, oats, and barley--and some field
corn is successfully raised in the warmer parts. Sheep, cattle
and horses are also exported. Hops are a large crop.