What industry is primarily found in the south central region of southern New Mexico?

The south central region of southern New Mexico is predominantly characterized by agriculture due to its favorable climate and fertile soil, which support various crops and farming practices. The region has a history of agricultural development, which includes the cultivation of crops such as pecans, chile, and cotton, and it benefits from irrigation systems that enhance farming productivity.

While mining, oil and gas, and manufacturing are present in New Mexico, as a whole, they do not dominate the economic landscape of the south central region to the same extent that agriculture does. The agricultural sector plays a crucial role in the local economy, providing employment and supporting the community through both cash crops and livestock. This focus on farming is underpinned by centuries of agricultural practices influenced by both Native American traditions and Spanish settlement.