The Salinas Valley in the Central Coast region of California lies along the Salinas River between the Gabilan Range and the Santa Lucia Range. It encompasses parts of Monterey County. Cities and populated places in the Salinas Valley include Bradley, Castroville, Chualar, Gonzales, Greenfield, Jolon, King City, Lockwood, Salinas, San Ardo, San Lucas, Soledad and Spreckels.
Agriculture dominates the economy of the valley. In particular, a large majority of the salad greens consumed in the U.S. are grown within this region. Strawberries, lettuce, tomatoes, and artichokes are the dominant crops in the valley. Other crops include broccoli, cauliflower, wine grapes, celery, and spinach. Due to the intensity of local agriculture the area has earned itself the nickname, "America's Salad Bowl."
The climate is precise to grow these crops, and Salinas Valley has an extended period of time in which crops can be grown compared to more northern regions where the winter causes quite an obstacle to farmers.
