In November 2024, a wildfire damaged the home and avocado orchard of a grower in Somis, California. About one-third of the avocado trees were lost. Despite this, the grower began replanting nearly 300 new trees on the hillside farm. Many California avocado growers remain optimistic about the future. Data showed that the amount of avocado available per person in the United States tripled between 2000 and 2021. Before, avocados were seen as special items, but now they are used in popular foods like avocado toast and guacamole. A major reason for this growth is the steady supply of avocados from Mexico. Since the U.S. allowed Mexican avocado imports in 1997, the fruit has become available all year, helping meet rising demand across the country.

Avocado growers believe that the strong interest in healthy fats is also increasing avocado sales. The Hass Avocado Board, created in 2000, collects funds from growers and importers to promote avocados and study their nutrition. A professor from the University of California said the board’s work has been instrumental in boosting sales. In Ventura County, avocado planting has expanded, especially after lemon prices dropped due to cheaper imports. Although wildfires are a risk, avocado trees are still popular among farmers. A local nursery said trees were sold out for this year and mostly sold out for 2026. The grower from Somis decided to plant avocados again because of their high demand during events like the Super Bowl. To reduce fire risk, trees were planted away from the house. The grower said the orchard would return stronger, showing resilience, foresight, and commitment to farming.