111 - Crop Production
When diving into the world of agriculture and government contracting, NAICS code 111 – Crop Production stands out as a fundamental classification. This code plays an essential role in identifying businesses that focus on growing crops for food, fiber, and ornamental purposes. Whether you’re a farmer, an agribusiness entrepreneur, or a government contractor looking for opportunities in the agriculture sector, understanding NAICS 111 is vital.
What is NAICS Code 111? – Crop Production Defined
NAICS (North American Industry Classification System) code 111 represents the Crop Production industry. This sector encompasses establishments primarily engaged in the cultivation of crops, plants, vines, or trees. These crops can be for various purposes such as:
- Food production
- Fiber production (e.g., cotton)
- Ornamental purposes (e.g., flowers)
Typical products include grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and other agricultural goods vital for both domestic use and export markets.
Sector Overview: Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting
The Crop Production industry is a key component of the broader Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting sector. This sector contributes significantly to the economy through:
- Providing raw materials for food and industrial use
- Supporting rural employment and communities
- Feeding both the U.S. and international populations
Crop production under NAICS 111 focuses particularly on the agriculture side, involving hands-on farming and agricultural management activities.
Typical Business Types and Activities under NAICS Code 111
Businesses classified under NAICS 111 typically fall into one of the following categories:
-
Grain farming
Growing cereal grains like wheat, corn, barley, and rice. -
Vegetable and melon farming
Cultivation of vegetables and melons such as lettuce, tomatoes, watermelons, and cucumbers. -
Fruit and tree nut farming
Production of fruits and nuts including apples, oranges, almonds, and walnuts.
Other activities may include cultivating fiber crops such as cotton, or ornamental nursery plants.
Eligibility & Size Standards for NAICS Code 111
For government contracting purposes, the Small Business Administration (SBA) defines size standards to determine eligibility as a small business under NAICS code 111:
| NAICS Code | Industry Title | Size Standard (Annual Receipts) |
|---|---|---|
| 111 | Crop Production | $1,000,000 to $19.5 million (varies by subcategory) |
The size standard means businesses with annual receipts below the specified threshold qualify as small businesses, making them eligible for various SBA programs, including small business set-aside contracts.
Examples of Businesses Under NAICS Code 111
Here are some common business examples that operate under NAICS code 111:
- Family-owned wheat or corn farms
- Commercial vegetable producers supplying supermarkets
- Orchards specializing in apples, peaches, or citrus fruits
- Nut producers cultivating almonds or pecans
- Specialty crop growers providing greenhouse-grown plants and flowers
NAICS Code 111 Code Details Table
| Code | Industry Title | Sector | Description | Size Standard (Annual Receipts) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 111 | Crop Production | Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing and Hunting | Establishments primarily engaged in growing crops, plants, vines, or trees for food, fiber, or ornamental purposes. Includes grain, vegetable, fruit, nut, and other crop farming. | $1M to $19.5M (varies by specific crop farming activity) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About NAICS Code 111
1. What types of crops are included in NAICS 111?
NAICS 111 includes grains (corn, wheat), vegetables (lettuce, carrots), fruits (apples, oranges), nuts (almonds, walnuts), fiber crops (cotton), and ornamental plants.
2. Is livestock farming included in NAICS code 111?
No, livestock, animal, or poultry farming falls under a different NAICS code (112 – Animal Production).
3. How can I find out if my farm qualifies as a small business under NAICS 111?
You should compare your farm’s average annual receipts against the SBA size standards specific to your crop type under NAICS 111.
4. Can businesses involved in greenhouse crop production qualify under NAICS 111?
Yes, many greenhouse crop production businesses are classified under NAICS 111 if they primarily grow crops or plants.
5. Why is NAICS code classification important for my agricultural business?
NAICS codes are essential for government contracting, market research, and ensuring your business is categorized accurately for regulatory, funding, and economic development programs.
Conclusion
NAICS code 111 – Crop Production is a cornerstone classification for businesses growing crops for food, fiber, or ornamental purposes. Understanding this code helps agricultural businesses navigate government regulations, qualify for small business programs, and identify market opportunities within the Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing, and Hunting sector. From grain farms to fruit orchards, NAICS 111 covers a vital and diverse range of crop production activities foundational to the agricultural economy.
Keywords: NAICS code 111, crop production, agriculture NAICS codes, grain farming, vegetable farming, fruit farming, small business size standards, agricultural business classification
