The region’s temperate and semi-arid climate make the area productive for dry-land grains and irrigated vegetable and fruit crops. Wheat, potatoes, vegetables and truck crops, and cattle are Umatilla County’s leading products. Agricultural production supports an expanding food- processing industry, including french- fried potatoes for the frozen food and restaurant markets, and potato chips.

High technology pivot and other irrigation methods are utilized primarily along the Columbia River and northern portions of the County. Most of the County’s fruit orchards are located in the northeastern section, while central county areas produce wheat, peas, and dry-land grains. Southern portions are a source of fiber and forest products as well as numerous cow-calf operations, and the western end of the County is home to a growing dairy and feedlot industry. In several areas, processing of gourmet foods for specialty markets is receiving increased attention.