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220 assessment of climate change in the southwest united statesconstraints faced by the intended users. As of 2007, there were 29 Southwesterncounties where fewer than 30% of agricultural producers had access to highspeedInternet service. Access is particularly low in the Four Corners region,which has a relatively large population of Native American farmers and ranchers.(medium-high confidence)11.1 Distinctive Features of Southwestern AgricultureAgriculture in the Southwest has distinctive features that influence how the sector respondsto climate variability and change. First, the region accounts for more than halfof the nation’s production of high-value specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, and nuts).California has the most counties where specialty crops (including melons and potatoes)account for a large share of total agricultural sales (Figures 11.1). Other areas that areimportant in terms of specialty crops include southwestern Arizona, the San Luis Valleyof Colorado, and chili- and pecan-growing areas of New Mexico (along the Rio GrandeValley).Irrigation plays a critical role in the region. Excluding Colorado, which has significantdryland wheat production, more than 92% of the region’s cropland is irrigated.Irrigated crops account for an even larger share of sales revenues. Agricultural uses ofFigure 11.1 Agricultural sales by county.Source: USDA (2009, 2012).