Central Florida Ag News October 2022

There are many jobs.

There are many

And one

BX Series

Easy operation

Call today to schedule a demo

of our tractor lineup

versatile BX Series sub-compact tractor.

durability and owner experience in the U.S.

hydrostatic transmission

height fits easily in standard

garages

POLK TRACTOR COMPANY

POLK TRACTOR

KubotaUSA.com

KubotaUSA.com

On

After 20 years of declining production, citrus growers had hope for some leveling off this year. Then Hurricane Ian happened. Some fruit may be lost, but not all hope is, and growers continue to look to the future with optimism. Read more, including the FDA’s official Citrus Forecast on page 10.

12 BUILDING ON SUCCESS

Steve Callaham and the Dundee Citrus Growers Association are so pleased with the success of their citrus grown under protective screens — or CUPS — that they recently announced they are expanding the project to nearly double their current acreage. They currently have 300 acres in the Lake Wales Ridge region, just east of Bartow in Polk County, with more than 300 citrus trees per acre planted using the CUPS method.

15 A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

Gene McAvoy is certainly no stranger to those in the field of agriculture, but you may still be surprised at the vast extent of his experience. That experience was recognized this past July when he was inducted into the Ag Agent Hall of Fame. As only the third Florida county agent ever to be inducted, it’s a tremendous honor he won’t forget. Learn more about his work around the world and right here in Florida.

20 AG PROGRAM OF THE YEAR

Each year, the Polk County Farm Bureau names an Outstanding Ag Program of the Year. This year, the honor goes to Dundee Ridge Middle FFA chapter, led by ag teacher Edward Congdon and newcomer advisor Kasie Herndon. Find out more about what makes this program so impressive

22 AG TEACHER OF THE YEAR

There’s no doubt Polk County has more than its share of outstanding ag educators. This year, Auburndale High School’s Kimberly Shaske was named 2022 Ag Teacher of the Year. Her lessons leave lasting impressions on students, so let’s take a closer look at the wisdom she imparts.

Paul

Nelson Kirkland

Jessica

David

Juanita

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING COLUMNISTS

Baxter

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Mongi

EACH OCTOBER, Central Florida Ag News focuses on the citrus season forecast. Typically, we find ourselves talking with growers about the familiar challenges ahead — namely greening and fruit drop. This year is a little different, though. This year, growers are up against a different formidable opponent in addition to the usual suspects: Hurricane Ian. As a result, this year’s forecast takes into account a multitude of other factors. But one thing that remains the same — year in and year out, regardless of natural disasters, disease, or pests — is the fortitude of our Florida citrus growers.

Despite some areas of the state suffering substantial storm damage on top of greening

complications, the resonating sentiment we heard during our research for this edition was one of resilience.

Growers aren’t just picking up the pieces, but they are helping one another with whatever resources are available. Throughout the state, there are groups helping each other navigate the terrain and get back on their feet. The storm may have uprooted trees, but it merely strengthened the roots of our industry.

Florida Citrus Mutual CEO Matt Joyner said it best: “The hurricane has been a bit of a setback, but we’re tough, we’re used to hurricanes, freezes, pests, and diseases. We’re going to pick up, get through this season, and move on.” ag

The New Varieties Development and Management Corporation, or NVDMC, is working to help ensure that Florida Citrus growers stay competitive in the produce market by providing timely, a ordable access to newly developed varieties. As new citrus varieties are developed, such as at the University of Florida's Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, they must go through a trial and release process.

“NVDMC would respond to the Invitation to Negotiate with a proposal and if awarded, then we would sub-license that variety out to nurseries and growers and in some cases packers for commercialization or trial,” says Chairman Peter Chaires.

NVDMC was formed in 2005 as a cooperative industry e ort to provide Florida growers timely and a ordable access to new citrus varieties. Now, NVDMC seeks and acquires new citrus varieties in the interest of Florida growers, but still relies on growers to search for naturally occurring varietal improvements in local groves.

• Tier I is for trial only. Growers could plant a maximum of 30 trees of each selection. Fruit in Tier I cannot be sold, and growers are required to share information about their experience with the selections they tried.

• Tier II is commercial production for those Tier I growers who either wish to expand their trials beyond 30 trees – or produce commercially.

• Tier III is open trial or commercial production for any interested grower. Any nursery may register to produce trees for Tier III growers.

Streamlined Fast Track Process:

by Phillip Rucks

In their role as an intermediary between the researchers developing new varieties and the growers planting the trees, NVDMC has also partnered with the UF/IFAS in support of the FAST TRACK release of crops, getting newly developed varieties that show a great deal of promise into the hands of growers more quickly. The primary goal of the FAST TRACK program is to involve private growers willing to take the risk in small trials of newly developed varieties, with the aim of more quickly identifying which of these varieties are commercially viable long-term. By incentivizing grower participation and engaging nurseries, growers, and producers early in the process, the program can provide an expedited path to full-scale commercial production for those varieties that perform well in the trials.

In its infancy, FAST TRACK followed a Tiered schedule:

With input from the industry, FAST TRACK was simplified when the Marathon Mandarin was released. The Tiered system and head-start for early adopters have been dropped. Growers now control their participation all the way through. Growers can trial trees in one or multiple locations or plant whatever volume of commercial produc tion fits their tolerance for risk. Industry evaluation and adoption of Marathon has been slower, but it is showing promise. The new FAST TRACK model also acknowledges the di culty in generating meaning ful information from diverse small-scale plantings and put less empha sis on grower-generated information. The hope is that advanced selections will enter well-designed and managed trials where meaningful and usable information will be collected and disseminated.

Due to the severity of the HLB crisis, NVDMC has reduced the volume of resources going to fresh fruit breeding, and has refocused on providing assistance to intrastate breeding programs to scour existing field populations and identify the most promising selections that have the potential to contribute to the juice-stream in the near-term. There is a lot of material in the existing pipeline with potential to benefit fresh growers as well. The industry focus is on doing whatever we can do to preserve processing and packing capacity and give growers much needed solutions.

EUCALYPTUS

Columns

5 NVDMC FOCUSES ON THE FUTURE OF FLORIDA CITRUS GROWERS AND PRODUCERS

The New Varieties Development and Management Corporation, or NVDMC, is working to help ensure that Florida Citrus growers stay competitive in the produce market by providing timely, affordable access to newly developed varieties. As new citrus varieties are developed, such as at the University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, they must go through a trial and release process. Philip Rucks explains how the NVDMC is helping growers.

15 RESEARCHERS IDENTIFY SECOND CITRUS CANKER GENE

A team of UF/IFAS researchers has identified a second citrus canker gene that could potentially lead to citrus cultivars that are resistant to the disease and other pathogens, as well. According to UF/IFAS, gene editing can “knock out” those genes in a plant that make it susceptible to diseases.

17 FARMLAND AUCTIONS HEATING UP ACROSS THE COUNTRY

The auction industry is playing a big part in the evaluation of sales as most of the agricultural land across mid-America is being sold at auction. The owners are using the auction method of accelerated marketing. It is an educated choice because it’s bringing better prices than any other form of sale.

18 MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASES A REAL THREAT TO HORSES

The rainy weather we are currently receiving in Florida is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, so it’s time to be on guard for some nasty viruses these insects can spread to both horses and humans. These viruses are spread through the mosquito’s bite. The most common viruses found in Florida include West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

20 A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRASSROOTS EFFORT FOR FARMERS

Once upon a time, farmers would network by gathering at the feed mill to discuss the weather or agricultural trends. Socializing face-to-face was how information was passed along. But the world has changed, and now digital communication is taking to the forefront with new tools such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and blogs. So why should farmers, ranchers, and other agribusinesses care about social media? Simply put: influence.

36 TREE DEFENDER REDUCES WATER USE, NUTRIENT RUNOFF

Many Florida citrus growers face a balancing act of maximizing the growth of their crop while minimizing water consumption and reducing excessive nutrient/fertilizer runoff into the state’s waterways. This balancing act is made more challenging by the state’s Best Management Practices (BMP) Program. Tree Defender’s most recent Individual Protective Covering was developed to have a positive impact on both irrigation water consumption and nutrient/fertilizer runoff.

SIGNS OF THE SEASON

FLORIDA CITRUS INDUSTRY PERSEVERES DESPITE CHALLENGES

Nothing says “Florida” quite like sunshine and citrus!

The citrus industry has taken quite a beating in the past 15 years thanks to greening. Yet, despite the challenges, citrus still remains a vibrant force in the Florida economy, employing almost 76,000 people and generating $9 billion in economic activity each year. Thanks to advances being made by researchers at UF/IFAS to combat greening, many growers remain committed to the state’s quintessential crop and optimistic about the future.

CITRUS PRODUCTION DOWN IN RECENT YEARS

Citrus has been a major crop in Florida for close to 150 years. There have been plenty of ups and downs as growers learned how to adapt to the annual threat of hurricanes, unexpected freezes, and diseases like citrus canker and greening. Despite these hills and valleys, citrus has been an economic cornerstone of the state. Florida has been the top citrus producer in the United States for most of the industry’s history. Even globally, Florida is surpassed only by Brazil when it comes to oranges for juice production. However, California took the lead in the 2021-22 season, with 62 percent of the nation’s citrus coming from the west coast state, and 36 percent from Florida.

Florida’s total citrus production last season was 45.1 million boxes, down 22 percent from the previous season’s total of 57.9 million boxes. The value of that harvest was $438 million, 29 percent lower than the $613 million revised value for the year.

Oranges account for 91 percent of the Sunshine State’s total citrus production, with the vast majority of those being destined for the juice market. Grapefruit makes up seven percent of the remaining production, with tangerines and tangelos representing just two percent. Valencia oranges, prized for their high juice content, accounted for 22.8 million boxes in the 2021-22 season, down 25 percent from the previous year, while nonValencia oranges dropped 20 percent for a total of 18.3 million boxes. Grapefruit production decreased by 19 percent to 3.33 million boxes, and tangerines and

tangelos dropped by 16 percent with 750,000 boxes produced.

While the volume of citrus produced has declined, the prices have risen. In the 2021-22 season, oranges returned $16.55 per box for fresh fruit and $8.19 for processing, up from $15.47 per box for fresh in 2020-21, while the processing rate declined from $9.78 for that year. Grapefruit rose from $23.37 for fresh and $6.85 for processing in 2020-21 to $25.55 per box for fresh and $8.78 for processing in 2021-22, and tangerines and tangelos rose from $27.85 to $40.25 per box for fresh during that time, while processing dropped from $1.50 to $1.

WHERE CITRUS IS CONCENTRATED IN FLORIDA

Citrus thrives in Florida thanks to the sandy soil and subtropical climate here. Most citrus is grown in the peninsula, where winter weather is consistently warmer than in the panhandle.

Seventy percent of Florida’s citrus is grown in just five counties. Polk County is the leader, with 7.78 million boxes produced in 2021-22, followed by DeSoto County with 6.8 million boxes, Highlands County with 6.65 million boxes, Hendry County with 5.52 million boxes, and Hardee with 4.75 million boxes.

by TERESA SCHIFFER

Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida

FINANCING THE FUTURE

Farm Credit of Central Florida is an Agricultural Credit Association. We provide financing for Farms, Homes & Land across 13 counties in Central Florida. We have offices in Lakeland, Plant City, Brooksville & Plant City. For more information check out our website.

Financing for Farms, Land and

2022-23 Citrus Forecast

Growers’ Early Optimism, Resilience Shine Despite Hurricane Ian

by TERESA SCHIFFER

DDESPITE THE CONTINUED LOSSES due to greening and a decrease in plantings of new citrus trees, this year was looking pretty good for Florida citrus growers –until Hurricane Ian swept through the state in the last days of September. Some of the state’s hardest-hit areas were the top-producing citrus counties.

Ray Royce, Executive Director of Highlands County Citrus Growers Association, voiced his optimism in the days preceding the epic storm.

“Right now, those groves that are being prop erly managed seem to have a relatively decent crop on them, and fruit seems to be sizing well. I am hopeful that with the combination of that and more growers using growth regulators and other things, maybe our drop rate will be cut sig nificantly, and perhaps we’ll still see a statewide 40 million boxes.”

Those hopes were later dashed when the USDA released its official 2022-2023 forecast of 28 mil lion boxes of oranges, down 32 percent from the previous year. If realized, the crop will be the low est since 1941-1942, when oranges hit 27.2 million boxes. The forecast for grapefruit was 2 million boxes, down 40 percent from the previous season. All estimates were made from calculations taken before Hurricane Ian hit the state.

The 2021-22 season was Florida’s lowest since World War II in terms of citrus production, with 45.1 million boxes produced — 91 percent of

those boxes were filled with oranges. That was a 22 percent decrease from the previous year’s total of 57.9 million boxes of all citrus produced. Nearly 20 years of citrus greening has taken a massive toll on Florida’s citrus industry.

“There’s no doubt the number of trees is down, and there’s no doubt that some groves have been abandoned,” Royce said in September.

“I am just hopeful that we’ll have a little bit bet ter fruit set this year, and that with some of the groves that are still in production, the men and women have done some things that we can cut the drop rate. It’s the drop rate that’s just been killing everything.”

Florida Citrus Mutual CEO Matt Joyner echoes Royce’s statements regarding the early optimism of growers.

“Certainly there was some encouragement out there that it looked like we had a good fruit set, the fruit was sizing up pretty well,” he says. “I think that people were feeling generally optimis tic about what this year’s harvest would bring.”

After the massive hurricane roared through

the state, hope turned to dismay as Ian’s winds whipped trees to the ground, tore fruit from branches, and torrential rains inundated groves, leaving some areas still flooded a week later. Even though the storm has passed, growers ex pect to see the loss of fruit as trees react to stress from the environment.

“If you look at the path of that storm,” Joyner explains, “it really came through the heart of

photo by MONGI ZEKRI

photo by GENE McAVOY

— Matt Joyner, Florida Citrus Mutual CEO

many of our largest citrus-producing counties here in the state. If you go further south, the damage is worse. I think you can see up to 80 percent damage – fruit on the ground – in some places, a lot of standing water. It gets a little bet ter as you get back up to South Polk County and over into the East Polk and the Lake Wales area. Overall, we know that the impact is going to be significant to the industry.”

Florida Citrus Hall of Famer Vic Story knows what Florida’s weather can do to a grove. His family has been growing citrus in Central Flor ida for nearly a century. The Story Companies’ orange groves have survived storms, freezes, pests, and everything else Mother Nature has thrown at them so far, and they intend to keep on going.

Story describes the damage he has seen in the aftermath of Ian.

“North of Frostproof, in the South Polk County area, not too bad. I mean, there’s some fruit on the ground and some trees blown over, but not as bad as the hurricane five years ago, Irma. South Polk County, Hardee, and Okeecho bee are worse than five years ago. We’ve got trees down, we’ve got a lot of fruit down, a lot of limbs broken.”

Prior to the storm, the past year’s weather had been quite favorable for citrus growers. But Flor ida grove operators are familiar with how fickle the subtropical climate here can be, and most re main undaunted by the recent tempest.

For seasoned Florida citrus growers, the storm damage is just one more thing to take in stride.

“The hurricane has been a bit of a setback, but we’re tough, we’re used to hurricanes, freezes, pests, and diseases. We’re going to pick up, get through this season, and move on.” ag

UPDATEAgri

Post-Hurricane Tips for Citrus Growers

by RUTH BORGER, UF/IFAS correspondent

HHURRICANE IAN’S IMPACT on Florida’s citrus growers is still being assessed, but growers can take action now to protect their groves from further damage. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences faculty at the Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred and at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee recommend quick attention to prevent further damage to vulnerable root systems and future fruit drop.

Flood waters resulting from heavy rains can severely impact roots already dimin ished because of greening. Phytophthora is a pathogen that attacks citrus tree roots al ready weakened by HLB. Wet conditions, especially flooded groves, increase the pos sibility of phytophthora infection in groves with historical problems. If standing water has occurred in groves with phytophthora problems, growers should evaluate for root damage and treat accordingly.

Hurricane Ian caused fruit to drop from trees but also weakened fruit left on trees. Tripti Vashisth, associate professor of hor ticulture, recommends applying gibberellic acid in the next few weeks and prior to Oc tober 30 to support the tree’s ability to hold on to its fruit.

“Extensive leaf loss is going to stress al ready stressed trees. It is quite likely that ex tensive leaf loss with good soil moisture will induce new growth. GA application at this time can help with rehabilitating the trees and improve the leaf growth,” Vashisth ex plained.

Some growers are already using GA in a series of applications to improve fruit pro duction and should continue to do so. Grow ers not using GA in this way are encouraged to make at least one application to encourage leaf growth lost to the hurricane, which will support future fruit production.

Tree defoliation also poses the risk

of Asian citrus psyllids being attracted to any new flush that the trees will produce. It would be wise to watch for pest flare-ups as sociated with intense flushing later in Octo ber in those areas that were heavily defoliat ed by Hurricane Ian.

Additional information regarding post-hurricane measures, including in formation on insurance and disaster relief claims, may be found in the Citrus Producers Guide to Hurricane Preparations a Recover in the Southeastern United States at srs.fs.us da.gov/pubs/63204. ag

photo by GENE McAVOY

“The hurricane has been a bit of a setback, but we’re tough, we’re used to hurricanes, freezes, pests, and diseases. We’re going to pick up, get through this season, and move on.”

Building on Success

Dundee Citrus Growers Association Expanding CUPS Acreage

by TERESA SCHIFFER

SSTEVE CALLAHAM and the Dundee Citrus Growers Association are so pleased with the success of their citrus grown under protective screens — or CUPS — that they recently announced they are expanding the project to nearly double their current acreage. They currently have 300 acres in the Lake Wales Ridge region, just east of Bartow in Polk County, with more than 300 citrus trees per acre planted using the CUPS method.

Callaham is the CEO of Dundee CGA, and he knows all too well how citrus greening has affected the Florida citrus industry. In 2015, he became aware of the work being done in Lake Alfred by Dr. Arnold Schumann at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center and was immediately intrigued.

Schumann had created a screen structure covering approximately one acre at the research center. The structure protects trees from green ing by creating a physical barrier that prevents the psyllid vectors from accessing them, while still allowing the trees to get plenty of sunshine, fresh air, and rain. So far, this innovation has proven to be a highly effective method of con trolling greening that is also environmentally friendly.

“It looks like a very large, fully enclosed, screen house,” Callaham says of the CUPS de sign. “Once you construct the screen house, you plant your citrus trees inside of it, so you have an environment that is free of citrus psyllids.”

In 2017, Callaham and Dundee CGA began construction of the first phase of a major CUPS project, a 110-acre installation in Polk Coun ty. That was completed and fully planted in

the spring of 2019. The second phase was 113 acres, completed in 2020. Another 72 acres were completed in a third phase in 2021. There are a couple of other growers affiliated with Dundee CGA also currently utilizing the CUPS strategy in Polk and Highlands counties, for about 500 acres in total at this point.

The oldest trees are now producing com mercial-level quantities of fruit, so growers are seeing the positive results that inspire them to further expand the use of CUPS growing.

“We are breaking ground on a new project in southern Polk County that will contain ap proximately 500 acres of citrus under protec tive screen,” says Callaham. “Altogether, we’ll be handling the harvesting, the packaging, and the marketing off of 1,000 acres.”

The cost associated with using the CUPS de sign will vary according to the specific site needs of each grove, but Callaham and Dundee CGA are seeing an excellent return on their invest ment already.

“There’s a lot of benefits around it,” Callaham describes. “We’re able to produce five times as much fruit per acre, which has a real environ mental benefit. We’re using less land. We’re us

ing less water. We’re using less inputs to be able to produce more, so it’s a very environmentally friendly growing system.”

When it comes to yields, Callaham believes that citrus trees that are grown under protective screens will exceed pre-greening levels of pro duction.

“The trees themselves are extremely healthy,” explains Callaham. “They’re not diseased trees, so they’re not requiring as many inputs as a tree that would be unhealthy, or sick, or diseased to be able to produce the crop. When you have a very healthy tree, you can produce a lot of fruit per tree.”

The enclosed nature of the CUPS system creates an environment that can be more effec tively monitored and controlled by growers. If a structure becomes damaged, such as can occur during a hurricane, it is then possible for psyl lids or other pests to be introduced to a growing area. However, as the structure is repaired and the interior environment is again separated from the exterior landscape, it becomes much easier to eradicate pests like psyllids before they can inflict severe damage on a grove or move on to affect other growers. ag

WHEN FARMS THRIVE, WE ALL DO.

AgAmerica’s spectrum of loan products provides flexible financing solutions that allow you to thrive in good times and sleep well during tough times. See how we can support your operation at agamerica.com.

NEWSAgri

Hopes Ride on Harvest Data From Millennium Block

by ROBIN KOESTOYO

RRESEARCHERS AND CITRUS GROWERS await the first harvest of data on yield and fruit quality from a major citrus trial on Florida’s east coast. The results may reveal which of thousands of trees can tolerate citrus greening, the disease that has devastated the state’s citrus industry.

“More than 5,500 trees in an experimental grove we call the ‘Millennium Block’ hold hope for the state’s citrus growers,” says Ronald D. Cave, director of the University of Florida/IFAS Indian River Research and Education Center (IRREC) in Fort Pierce.

Conclusive data will come in early 2023. Cave believes the scientific findings may help the Indian River District citrus industry get back on its feet.

Cave said the 20-acre grove, established in 2019, features 154 new citrus scion-rootstock combinations — some of which will produce market-ready fruit. The research grove was started in response to a steep decline in state wide citrus production. In its heyday, nearly 1 million Florida acres were citrus groves.

Citrus greening appeared in Florida groves in the mid-2000s. After a tree contracts the dis ease, it declines — and fruit production may fall to unsustainable levels. Growers and research ers agree that the most effective way to restore wholesome fruit production is to identify root stock and scion-grafted combinations that toler ate the disease.

Leading the rootstock research are Cave, who’s the principal investigator; Pete Spyke, a longtime citrus grower and William Castle, a member of the IRREC Advisory Committee and a UF/IFAS professor emeritus at the Citrus Re search and Education Center. Castle serves as a key consultant.

“In one trial, we took the worst of the grape

fruit, the most susceptible to citrus greening, and matched it with different rootstocks,” says Spyke. “We didn’t pick the grapefruit that tolerates the disease because we are looking for differences, not absolute performance.”

Cave said the researchers chose navel or ange to act as an indicator scion for rootstock effects on orange varieties because it expresses rootstock differences more than standard juice oranges. A rootstock that imparts disease tol erance, climatic stability, and high brix fruit in navels — which struggle with fruit production and brix issues — will automatically outperform other rootstocks for round oranges grown for processing. The variety “UF950” mandarin was also selected as an indicator scion because it has major issues with fruit production.

“If the research shows high yields with UF950, it could become the go-to choice for mandarin varieties in general, providing a similar role as Cleopatra Mandarin in the past,” says Spyke.

In a fourth trial, the UF/IFAS researchers evaluated multiple grapefruit scions, the part that’s aboveground. They graft the scions onto the rootstocks or citrus tree roots.

Rootstocks employed in that grapefruit va riety trial are “Standard Sour Orange,” “X-639” and “US942.” There are 18 different grapefruit and grapefruit hybrids on these three rootstocks in the experimental trial.

Cave said the researchers will reach a mile stone later. The first fruit data and tree growth

analyses from the last four years will begin the process of choosing rootstocks that will grow trees that produce high yields of marketable fruit.

Tom James, IRREC biological scientist, visits the Millennium Block every day. James’ 47-year career is in citrus production.

“We take leaf samples from each tree to run citrus greening diagnostics. And we also take notes on what we see visually,” says James. “We do analyses to correlate the two and see the ac curacy between visual scans and actual data.”

Many trees appear tolerant to different dis ease pressures. Still, Cave, Spyke, Castle and James agree that decisions cannot be made based on visual observations or data collected before the first fruit harvest. This fall will bring the first harvest.

“Some grapefruit hybrids—like the Pumme lette—look like good replacements for grapefruit if we do not solve the citrus greening problem,” says James.

Data collection includes phenological devel opment—or the study of seasonal, cyclical, and natural tree changes. Other data are leaf nutri tion profiles, soil chemistry, and incidence of disease and pests. Soon, drones will be employed to track each tree’s height and trunk diameter.

Some varieties show strong performance. James points out a tree with UFR #17 rootstock, deep green leaves, healthful fruit, and strong, thick trunks and limbs. He also points out trees with U.S. #942 (a U.S. Department of Agricul ture-bred rootstock), UFR #5, and C-54 (Califor nia rootstock). “C-54 is an exceptional rootstock for fruit production and tree quality growth. It’s early, though—it could change,” said James.

“Bottom line - we see some rootstock combi nations in all four trials that appear to be grow ing normally and producing good crops of large, high quality, delicious fruit,” Spyke said. “Trust in the data from the Millennium Block will re quire more than one crop.”

Continued funding for the planting will be important in the future, and the experimental design will provide reliable data, Spyke said.

Spyke said Indian River District grapefruit is a high-value fresh crop exported internationally. There is a strong interest among legacy grow ers to continue to produce grapefruit locally. If the Millennium Block shows data to support a grapefruit-like variety tolerant to citrus green ing, growers may be interested in that option.

“The University of Florida/IFAS took a bold step to establish the Millennium Block,” Cave says. “And the steps taken to continue the re search will make a difference for all growers in Florida.” ag

Kiwanis Treehouse

A Lifetime of Service

Gene McAvoy Is No Stranger to the Ag Community, but His Vast Experience Might Still Surprise You

by KRISTEN GUEVARA

JJOY AND GRATITUDE radiate in Gene McAvoy’s voice as he recalls the day he was inducted into the Ag Agent Hall of Fame this past July. As only the third Florida county agent ever to be inducted, it’s a tremendous honor he won’t forget.

“To be recognized by your peers and colleagues really means something,” he says.

McAvoy has been a part of the Na tional Association of County Agricultur al Agents since 1997 and is now a lifetime member.

McAvoy has been involved in agricul tural work nationally and international ly for more than 50 years. McAvoy was raised in the city of Newark, New Jersey.

While he was in high school, McA voy’s family migrated to the farmlands of southern New Jersey because of the race riots.

“With not much else to do out in the farmlands, I turned to agriculture, pick ing tomatoes and other vegetables,” he says.

Although his parents never attend ed college, McAvoy decided to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Plant Science at Rut gers University. He completed his bache lor’s degree with highest honors in 1974. After graduating, McAvoy joined the Peace Corps and served in Niger, West Africa, where he worked on a success ful village gardening project from 19741976. Upon returning home to New Jer

sey when his contract in West Africa was over, McAvoy met his now wife. Later, when Niger was in the grips of a severe drought, he and his wife returned for another two-year stint to work on a seed multiplication project.

McAvoy discovered during his time in West Africa that although he excelled in experience and knowledge of agricul ture, there was a higher degree that would benefit him in the workforce. McAvoy re turned to Rutgers University to pursue a master’s degree in Horticulture. During his studies, McAvoy was offered a job in the International Programs Depart ment at Rutgers University. He instruct ed a class in Seed Multiplication Systems based on his extensive overseas experi ence on the seed-producing project in Niger. He also led a summer short course in vegetable production and marketing. Not only did McAvoy help expand seed and vegetable growing efforts in West Af rica and New Jersey but he also expand ed his own family as he and his wife bore two sons together.

CITRUS CANKER GENE

A TEAM OF UF/IFAS RESEARCHERS has identified a second citrus canker gene that could potentially lead to citrus cultivars that are resistant to the disease and other pathogens, as well. Citrus canker is a bacterial disease that reduces the vitality of citrus trees and renders the fruit unmarketable. Once considered eradicated in Florida, citrus canker reared its ugly head again in 1995. Eradication efforts were undertaken, but a series of hurricanes spread the pathogen across the state, and Florida citrus growers have been battling it ever since. The disease has since spread to Louisiana, Texas, and other states. However, hope may be on the horizon. A team of researchers with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have identified a second citrus canker gene; these are genes that control a plant’s negative reactions to a pathogen. This could allow researchers to target the new gene using gene editing to create citrus cultivars that are resistant to citrus canker and possibly other pathogens.

Citrus Canker Gene Details

According to UF/IFAS, gene editing can “knock out” those genes in a plant that make it susceptible to diseases. The team of UF/IFAS researchers, including Zhanao Deng and Fred Gmit ter, identified the citrus canker gene—CsDMR6—which affects a citrus tree’s reaction to the pathogen that causes citrus canker. CsDMR6 is the second gene identified that, when working nor mally, would inhibit a citrus plant’s ability to defend itself from citrus canker.

Researchers will now be able to attempt to edit the CsDMR6 gene in new cultivars so that the gene is not activated in the plants when citrus canker infection starts. In this way, the new citrus tree cultivars are resistant to the pathogen because the undesira ble symptoms caused by the gene never begin.

CsDMR6 is the second gene found responsible for a citrus plant’s reaction to citrus canker. The first was the citrus gene LOB1, identified by UF/IFAS professor of microbiology, Nian Wang. According to Zhanao Deng, a UF/IFAS professor of envi ronmental horticulture and one of the UF/IFAS team members, having another gene to edit will give researchers a better chance to create canker-resistant citrus.

According to the research, plants like grape fruit and Carrizo, or giant cane, that had their CsDMR6 gene “knocked out” showed resistance to citrus canker, expressed plant defense genes at higher levels and contained more salicylic acid. Similarly, editing CsD MR6 in other plants led to a broad resistance to other pathogens, such as different species of bacterial pathogens.

Researchers are hoping that the discovery of CsDMR6 could also play a role in creating citrus re sistant to Huanglongbing (HLB), or citrus greening.

by MIKE ROBERTS

This column is sponsored by Griffin Fertilizer Co., and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Mike Roberts is the Vice President of the Frostproof, Florida-based Griffin Fertilizer Co. Roberts joined the company in November 2011. He has spent the majority of his career in the fertilizer/agchem industry. Roberts earned a Bachelor of Science degree in citrus production from Florida Southern College in Lakeland. For more information, visit griffinfertilizer.com.

FROM THE DESK OF Dr. Angle

J. Scott Angle jangle@ufl.edu @IFAS_VP

When Science Makes You a Believer

THERE’S A FUTURE FOR FLORIDA CITRUS because of people like Steven Callaham. He serves Florida agriculture, he sells a vision, and he relies on good solid science to innovate his way through the HLB crisis.

That last part is where UF/IFAS comes in. Arnold Schumann of the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center has done pioneering research into Citrus Under Protective Screen, or CUPS, and Callaham has run with it.

Last year, I visited Callaham in Bartow to see the future of grapefruit in what looks like a cluster of big-top circus tents. It’s the first Florida citrus grove I’ve visited where no one has ever spotted a psyllid. I was one of many pilgrims who visited the Dundee Citrus Growers Association’s field of screens.

Callaham, who’s the CEO of Dundee Citrus Growers Association, and Jennifer Schaal, the CFO, greeted me at their 300-plus screened-in acres. And they told me UF/IFAS science was essential to their success.

CUPS keeps out psyllids, but the upfront investment is substantial. That means pitching to growers and investors. He tells them Dundee’s methods are validated by UF/IFAS science, and that he has the UF/IFAS scientist he calls the “godfather” of CUPS, Schumann, on speed dial.

Callaham leaned on Schumann as he put his first trees in the ground in 2018. How much should he space them? What fertilization and irrigation strategies should he employ? Which varieties work best under screen?

Schumann continues to visit Callaham to do leaf tissue analysis and evaluate the overall progress. Schumann also continues to share results from his own CUPS research facility as he collects more data on tree performance. Callaham expects to adopt Schumann’s new artificial-intelligence-driven smartphone app to scout for psyllids.

Successful screens don’t take care of every citrus challenge, so Dundee works with other UF/IFAS scientists: CREC entomologist Lauren

Diepenbrock advises on control of the mealybug. Extension agent Chris Oswalt collaborates with Callaham on how to grow citrus in a system that generates its own weather. Mark Ritenour, a horticulturist at the UF/IFAS Indian River Research and Education Center, evaluates how CUPS affects fruit color development.

That scientific support not only gives Callaham the confidence to pitch to investors, it gives him confidence to expand. He and Schaal are currently developing 500 acres under screen in Fort Meade as they evaluate the next project.

Callaham and Schaal have become faces of

innovation in Florida agriculture. I attended the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association annual convention in September where Callaham was elected by his peers to serve as vice chair of the FFVA board, which means in two years he’ll be chairman. And Schaal was elected to join the board as one of its youngest members.

When I visited him in Bartow, Callaham told me the Dundee success story could not have happened without UF/IFAS. As leader of the research and innovation arm of Florida agriculture, this is music to my ears—science shows the way and encourages innovation to overcome challenges like HLB.

But Callaham, Schaal, and their growers and investors took the big risk. It still hasn’t paid off, because the oldest trees are only three and a half years old. But when Callaham leads you inside the big-top tent and you see the healthy trees, you believe.

Callaham and Schaal could not have built what they’ve built with Dundee CGA without taking a leap of faith. But that leap is also grounded in science, and your land-grant university is there to provide the foundation to help you stick the landing.

Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS).

HEATING UP ACROSS THE COUNTRY

MOST OF POLK COUNTY was blessed and missed the worst of Hurricane Ian. Sadly, our neighbors to the south are going to be rebuilding for many years. It is a horrible scene, but such a blessing to see so much cooperation from across the nation. This is America at its best, neighbors helping neighbors. We continue to pray for our country to receive the aid needed to rebuild.

As a nation, we have been suffering from a different but deadly storm for the past year.

Inasmuch as November is the next election, that will determine whether we will continue down this path of total destruction or get back in control of this runaway train. I pray everyone will evaluate the situation and pull the right lever in the voting booth.

The market on farmland is holding and going up in price. It’s actually far above what any agricultural use will return in seasonal production. At the bottom of the buying surge are foreign buyers who, according to an article in the Wall Street Journal, own 37.6% of our farmland. China owns about 1% of that. Supply and demand make the market, that’s something Biden is not aware of. Unfortunately, this is not mountains and deserts but our best agricultural land.

Billionaires such as Bill Gates and others are not interested in immediate income return. They are interested in the control of resources. Much of the land in the south, and especially in Florida, is being influenced by the huge move from northeastern neighbors. They are coming south for better and safer living conditions.

The auction industry is playing a big part in the evaluation of these sales as most of the agricultural land across mid-America is being sold at auction. The owners are using the auction method of accelerated marketing. It is an educated choice because it’s bringing better prices than any other form of sale.

We are also seeing an increase in the value of antiques and collectibles, which was depressed by as much as 50% over the past 10 years. However, like everything else, it is starting to cycle back to previous prices.

Gun sales are terrific with prices on collectible guns up a strong 30% this year. Modern and new automatic rifles are leveling off and down some due to all the similar new products coming out of the far East.

Our next firearm and ammunition auction will be next January. Don’t wait till the last minute to let us know if you have something you want to sell so we can market it to the masses.

by MARTY HIGGENBOTHAM

This column is sponsored by Higgenbotham Auctioneers International, Ltd., and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Marty Higgenbotham, founder and president of Higgenbotham Auctioneers International, Ltd., has conducted approximately 12,000 auctions, selling everything from cemetery lots to shopping centers and everything in between. He graduated from Reisch Auction College in 1959. Since then, he has sold in 49 states and five foreign countries. Clients include Wal-Mart, Albertson, Sinclair, AutoZone, HUD, and the states of Kansas, Missouri, Texas and Florida, to name a few. He lives with his wife in Lakeland.

Is your farm FSMA ready? www.FDACS.gov/FSMA

Sign up today for a free On-Farm Readiness Review

This publication is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award U2FFD007446 totaling $1,166,732 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.

See you at the auction!

MOSQUITO-BORNE DISEASES A REAL THREAT TO HORSES

THE RAINY WEATHER we are currently receiving in Florida is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes, so it’s time to be on guard for some nasty viruses these insects can spread to both horses and humans. These viruses are spread through the mosquito’s bite. The most common viruses found in Florida include West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.

There are no specific treatments for these viral diseases. Prevention is the best course of action. Luckily for horses, we have vaccines that provide protection against these diseases. Along with vaccination, minimizing exposure is the best plan. Mosquito repellent and keeping your horse indoors with fans at dawn and dusk will help reduce the number of bites your horse receives.

Eliminating mosquito breeding grounds is important. Drain any standing water from buckets, bins, or other items that might collect water. Weekly cleaning of water troughs is essential to prevent mosquito larvae from developing. Appropriate chlorination of swimming pools and stocking large water tanks with fish that consume their larvae will help with protecting your horse.

Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Western Equine Encephalitis, and West Nile Virus are all reportable diseases in the state of Florida. Prevention is the best plan. Work with your veterinarian to make sure your horses are up to date on their mosquito vaccinations and then do your part at home to prevent mosquitoes from developing.

AGRISHOPPER AGRISHOPPER SHOPPER

Fall Festivals in Full Swing

by GRACE HIRDES

Are you looking for a way to celebrate the change of seasons? Central Florida’s agritourism operations kick into high gear in the fall. Not only are fall festivals fun but they are also a great way to explore the natural side of our state while supporting Florida’s small farmers. Add to that the educational aspect as farmers teach visitors through tours, and you’ve got an all-around win.

If you’re looking for a fall festival in Central Florida, here are some options:

Fox Squirrel Corn Maze

foxsquirrelcornmaze.com

The Fox Squirrel Corn Maze located at 6151 Varn Road in Plant City takes place from October 8-23 from 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Admission for adults 18 and older is $11 plus tax, youth ages 3-17 must pay $10 plus tax, and kids 2 and younger are admitted for free. The admission price includes unlimited maze experiences, hayride, games, and more. Pumpkins will also be available for purchase and vendors will have activities, food, and crafts for sale.

Harvest Holler Corn Maze harvestholler.com

Harvest Holler Corn Maze located at 950 Tavares Road in Polk City takes place through November 13. Hours are Friday: 4 p.m.-8 p.m., Saturday: 12 p.m.-8 p.m., and Sunday: 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Admission for adults ages 13-64 is $15, kids ages 2-12 is $12, kids younger than 2 get in free, and seniors 65 and older $12. Military/law enforcement officers/ fire pay $12. Admission price includes the experience of a working family farm with animals, activities, and —of course — a corn maze! Maw-Maw’s Country store offers cobbler and country eats that will remind you of the county fair.

Scars Farm Fall Festival

Scars Farm located at 777 Alturas Road N. in Bartow will be open Oct 22 from 10 a.m.5 p.m. Admission is $8 in advance or $15 at the gate. Admission includes the opportunity to interact with and feed farm animals such as horses, cows, donkeys, pigs, and chickens. There will also be a pumpkin patch, photo opportunities with a pumpkin carriage, food trucks, and a costume contest with prizes. For more information, call (863) 537-6590 or email contact@scarsfarm.com

by DR. KATIE HENNESSY

This column is sponsored by Polk Equine, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Dr. Katie Hennessy graduated from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 with a degree in large animal health and equine medicine. She completed an advanced internship at The Equine Medical Center of Ocala and is currently the owner and practicing veterinarian at Polk Equine. Her expertise ranges from small and exotic creatures to large animals, specializing in equine medicine.

Lums Farmers Market Fall Festival

Lums Farmers Market Fall Festival located at 4898 James Redman Parkway in Plant City will be open October 22-23 and October 2930 from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Admission includes games, animals, vendors, and much more.

Lakeland Nursery Fall Festival

The Lakeland Nursery Fall Festival located at 3010 Knights Station Road in Lakeland will be open October 29-30 from 4- 8:30 p.m. Admission includes horses, hayrides, face painting, pumpkin painting, trunk or treating, and much more.

Corky’s Corn Maze

Corky’s Corn Maze located at 1603 Hawk Griffin Road in Plant City will be open from mid-October until the end of November from 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Admission is $15 for adults and $10 for kids, while kids 3 and younger get in free. Admission includes parking, access to the corn maze, unlimited hayrides, kids zone, family-friendly activities, and the opportunity to see exotic animals.

As you head out to these Florida fall festivals to support your local farmers, be sure to remember these tips:

• Bring cash. Even if credit cards are accepted for admission, vendors inside the festivals often do not accept them. However, a few farms make ATMs available.

• Dress appropriately. You’ll be doing physical activity in rough and bumpy terrain, so close-toed shoes are a good idea.

• Bring bug repellant just in case. And keep an eye out for ants, bees, and wasps.

• Weather can dampen the fun. And some farms even suspend activities on rainy days so check farm websites and Facebook pages for updates. Each farm has its own rain date and refund policy.

• Be respectful. Don’t litter or go off the maze paths.

A DIFFERENT KIND OF GRASSROOTS EFFORT FOR FARMERS

ONCE UPON A TIME, farmers would network by gathering at the feed mill to discuss the weather or agricultural trends. Socializing face-to-face was how information was passed along. But the world has changed, and now digital communication is taking to the forefront with new tools such as Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and blogs.

So why should farmers, ranchers, and other agribusinesses care about social media? Simply put: influence. Consumers frequently use social media not only to connect with producers but also to educate themselves on products they might be interested in.

On the flip side, while many growers have embraced the technology tools available for their operations, they often eschew the use of social media, instead questioning its relevance in agriculture. However, with 217 million users sending 500 million tweets per day, the impact of social media cannot be ignored.

Twenty years ago, sources of news related to agriculture were limited to trade publications and mass media outlets, where technical sources, such as websites, were limited to the niche markets they served. But as technological savvy has increased across all demographic areas, the former “niche” market of the web has expanded to encompass every topic, and they are available to anyone, from the deeply entrenched to the mildly curious.

It’s important to realize that with social media, it’s not only the information that is valuable but also the conversations around that information. In the past, when a new variety was developed or a new pest was encountered, those topics were discussed by the traditional means, face to face, or in trade publications. But when these conversations occur on social media, the information reaches beyond the involved parties and is available to any consumer who might be interested in farm-to-table produce or any grower who is seeing the early stages of a blight you recently treated.

Social media also helps to break down barriers like distance, both physical distance and the newly minted “social distance,” allowing growers and ranchers to reach a wider audience than ever.

by BAXTER TROUTMAN

This column is sponsored by Labor Solutions, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Baxter Troutman is founder and chief executive officer of Labor Solutions, a staffing company with offices in Bartow, Winter Haven, Lake Wales, Arcadia, and Plant City. You also can visit his Dark Hammock Legacy Ranch online at www. DH-LR.com. A cattle rancher and citrus grower who served in the Florida House of Representatives, Troutman understands the challenges and concerns of today’s farmer.

A Program of Pride and Passion

Dundee Ridge Middle FFA Takes Title of Polk County Farm Bureau 2022 Program of the Year

by PAUL CATALA

FFOR BELLA DYKES, it is hands-on classroom experiences that have encouraged her to pursue her goal of becoming a veterinarian. For the time being, she’s focusing on learning about the basics of agriculture, raising and tending livestock, and experiencing firsthand the importance of Florida agriculture.

Those principles are just a few of the lessons and goals agriculture teacher and advisor Ed ward “Eddie” Congdon has set out for students at the Dundee Ridge FFA Chapter at Dundee Ridge Middle Academy. Along with Congdon, Kasie Herndon is also a Dundee Ridge FFA ad visor who started at the beginning of the school year.

The program’s success in accomplishing those goals while also instilling a sense of pride in Florida agriculture is just part of why it earns the title of Polk County Farm Bureau 2022 Pro gram of the Year.

Dundee Ridge also was named Program of the Year in 2002.

During a recent class, Congdon showed some of the students how to properly clip nails on some of the school’s rabbits. Among those who watched closely is Bella, 11, a sixth-grad er who is raising a market hog in the school’s barn and visits the animal at least three times per week.

“This is my fourth year showing at compe titions, and the time here really helps me with everyday care,” she says. “(Congdon) teaches us a lot, and he’s a fun teacher with a lot of person ality and passion.”

In addition to the ag-livestock care classes, the ag students at Dundee Ridge can participate in after-school agriculture programs such as livestock and horse judging, tool identification, and citrus judging. The students spend about two hours for three days each week working with animals or crops.

“I teach the love of agriculture to students in grades 6 to 8. I am so proud of my students and seeing them accomplish their goals,” says Congdon, 48, a lifelong Haines City resident.

Congdon grew up doing chores on an 80acre farm in Haines City, where he helped raise hogs and cattle and tended groves.

“From the time I could walk, I was helping on the farm and knew that farming would be in my blood for life,” says Congdon, who earned his elementary education degree from Florida Southern College.

That love of agriculture and the tradition al agrarian Florida lifestyle in addition to the instructors’ combined years of experience in the field helped this school stand out and get recognized.

Polk County Farm Bureau Executive Direc tor Carole McKenzie says students who’ve al ready passed through his classes remember the

photo by PAUL CATALA

skills he taught and reinforced at Dundee Ridge. Those include lessons about diverse types of animals that are studied and raised, breeding programs, and studies on various stages of animals’ lives.

“He is well-remembered and long admired by former students who say that they continue to appreciate the important lessons they learned in his classroom,” McKenzie says.

“I’ve met a few of his former students, and they are always so excited to see and talk to him.”

That contagious excitement has been behind multiple awards the program has won over the years. Among them: 17 top five State Citrus Evaluations; 14 top 10 State Livestock Evaluation Teams; five top 10 Poultry Evaluation teams; and 23 top five Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration Teams. One of the most outstanding achievements was when the students won state championships.

The program had five state titles, and in 2021, it won three out of five divi sions in the State Ornamental Horticulture Demonstration at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

For 2022, Dundee Ridge has 80 FFA members. Of those, 27 are exhibiting market hogs at the Polk County Youth Fair and five steers at the Polk County Youth Fair; 10 members are exhibiting breeding goats; and six have poultry. There are also 10 members with either purebred or commercial cattle going to the Polk County Youth Fair, Florida State Fair, and the Central Florida Youth in Agriculture.

Congdon, who was a member of the Haines City FFA Chapter when he was a high school student, says the support Dundee Ridge has given the FFA program has been outstanding.

“At the end of the year, I want my kids to take away a love and appreci ation for agriculture,” he says. “Agriculture programs are im portant because they teach students where their food comes from and opens the door to many career op tions. It is an honor to be recognized by the Farm Bureau. It’s ex citing to see that folks recognize the work put into having a great ag program.” ag

Come Explore Our Village!

THE 2022/2023 SHOW SEASON

26th Annual Fall Fuel Up

November 9-10-11-12, 2022

Christmas in the Village

December 9-10 & 16-17, 2022

35th Annual Antique Engine & Tractor “Swap Meet”

January 18-19-20-21, 2023

16th Biennial Mike Sharp Tractor Drive Through the Groves

February 18th, 2023

30th Annual Antique Engine & Tractor Show

February 22-23-24-25, 2023

Featuring Oliver & Cockshutt & all Flywheel Engines

Spectator

Admission - $10.00

Agriculture Is Our Passion

The Story Companies are comprised of Florida agriculture management entities. Since 1945, these family owned and operated corporations have provided services to Florida agriculture including land holdings; citrus, peach and blueberry caretaking; and marketing of various commodi ties on over 7,000 acres. For over 70 years the Story’s have been providing superior service with outstanding returns. Please contact us to see how we may be of service to you.

Polk County & The Historic City of For t Meade Presents

photo by PAUL CATALA

Leading the Future

Auburndale High School’s Kimberly Shaske Named Polk County Farm Bureau 2022 Ag Teacher of the Year

by PAUL CATALA

SSINCE STANDING IN FRONT of her first students 26 years ago, Kimberly Shaske has continued to maintain her focus: keeping the relevance and importance of Florida agriculture at the forefront.

It is that dedication and desire to instill a love and respect for Florida agriculture that earned the Auburndale High School educator the title of Polk County Farm Bureau 2022 Outstanding Ag Teacher of the Year.

Shaske says the honor isn’t about “being in the limelight,” but rather about her dedication to agriculture education.

“I’m grateful and appreciative of the recognition and I’m honored they selected me this year, but really, I don’t do this job for the honor; I do it because of my love for the kids,” says Shaske, 57.

A Winter Haven native, Shaske says the award helps raise awareness and bring recognition to the agriculture industry. In Florida, more than 100,000 acres of agricultural, rural, and natural lands are converted to de velopment each year; nationally, more than 1.5 million acres of agricul tural land are lost annually. As Polk County’s current population of about 753,500 continues to increase and the county becomes the fastest growing in Florida, agricultural lands continue to be paved over.

“We need to introduce the importance of agriculture to elementary and middle school students. If (farmers and teachers) aren’t there to keep it alive, people are going to forget about the importance of agriculture here, even if they go to the grocery store every day,” says Shaske, who lives in Lake Alfred with her husband of 34 years, Jeff Shaske.

That importance has been magnified throughout the covid pandemic and the supply shortages that followed. Shaske says that has made not only her students but also Florida residents more aware of the value of having land set aside for agriculture.

Shaske’s family owned a 40-acre citrus grove when she was a child. Her parents – Roy, a general contractor, and Emily, one of the first female real estate brokers in Polk County – encouraged her interest in agriculture. Roy enjoyed gardening, hunting, and growing citrus; Emily fished, canned pro duce, and hiked.

After graduating from Santa Fe Catholic High School, Shaske was ac cepted to the University of Florida in Gainesville, where she earned a Bach elor of Science degree in agricultural education and agricultural operations management. She credits one of her professors, Dr. Byron French, for steer ing her in the direction of agriculture education.

Shaske became certified in Ag Systems, has an Associates of Agriculture certification, and is an Agriculture Specialist and Florida Nursery Growers and Landscape Association Horticultural Professional.

Whether in the classroom, the pasture, or the barn, Shaske devotes her self to teaching students about traditional agricultural practices, as well as newer methods and alternatives, such as Verti-Gro — vertical growing, gardening, and agriculture that utilize space and energy more efficiently.

“We grow in pots here at school, and (students) then take skills home with them to continue nurturing plants,” says Shaske, who has been at Au burndale High School since 2013.

Her value as an agriculture educator is nothing new, however. Shaske led the Polk County Farm Bureau’s 2015 Outstanding Ag Program of the Year, as well.

Polk County Farm Bureau Executive Director Carole McKenzie explains

level of commitment

instructors’

their students.

“For over a decade, I’ve had many opportu nities to observe Mrs. Shaske’s dedication to her students,” Mckenzie says. “Her example teaches them to be service-driven and dedicated to oth ers.”

McKenzie says it’s Shaske’s ability to teach across commodities and changing agriculture trends that made her deserving of the title this year. She also says she admires how Shaske stays in tune with the agriculture community beyond the classroom.

“Whatever the occasion or event, if she is able to attend, participate, or offer support, she is al ways there,” McKenzie says.

Shaske estimates that 85 percent or more of her students at Auburndale High School live in the suburbs and don’t do many farming-related activities at home. She says she works to make her classes and programs suitable for all students, ur

ban and rural.

She and her family raise show chickens, pro viding birds to ag students across Polk County.

“It’s nice to have (the award) because it’s rec ognizing people who are tied to the agricultural field trying to help with educating the kids and bringing in more kids for the vocation of agricul ture,” says Shaske, who has hosted several Farm Days to help educate elementary students about agriculture.

The mother of three grown children says re tirement is on the horizon within four years so she can spend more time with her children and have more time for hobbies like gardening and traveling.

Until then, she says she’ll continue doing her best to keep the importance and relevance of Flor ida’s agriculture at the forefront of young minds. She often spends 10 to 12 hours a day dealing in some capacity with her instructional duties.

It’s a labor of love that has paid off for her stu

dents and the community. During her career, five of Shaske’s students have gone on to become state FFA officers, and three became agriculture teach ers.

“A lot of it, especially in our area, we’re losing so much agriculture due to development, that if you can tie that back to the agricultural realm for these kids or introduce it to them…it’s a wonder ful thing,” she says. “If we’re not there to keep it alive, people are going to forget about it or take it for granted.” ag

“We need to introduce the importance of agriculture to elementary and middle school students. If (farmers and teachers) aren’t there to keep it alive, people are going to forget about the importance of agriculture here, even if they go to the grocery store every day.”

— Kimberly Shaske, ag educator

2022 Polk County Ag Tour September 23

photos by JESSICA McDONALD

Urban Farm/LCS RISE Institute

Lakeland Christian School FFA members lead the tour at the Urban Farm

Sow Exotic

Braswell’s Blueberry Farm

County Commissioner Bill Braswell

Bee-Haven

Roger Bilbrey, Bilbrey Family Farm

Cattle rancher Carey Lightsey

State Representative Josie Tomkow

OCTOBER — NOVEMBER 2022 CALENDAR

compiled by TERESA SCHIFFER

OCTOBER 8 AND 22, NOVEMBER

12 AND 26 • DOWNTOWN

FARMER’S MARKET IN LAKE WALES

OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22, AND 29, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19, AND 26 DOWNTOWN LAKELAND FARMERS CURB MARKET

This vibrant, eclectic market brings the community together every Saturday in Downtown Lakeland with fresh, local produce, live plants, and a variety of hot foods and handcrafted wares. It is located on the 200 block of N. Kentucky Ave. in Lakeland from 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. every Saturday (except in August) and is a production of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority (LDDA). Learn more at downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org.

The Lake Wales Downtown Farmer’s Market is sponsored by Lake Wales Main Street and takes place every second and fourth Saturday from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at 20 N Market St in Lake Wales. This producer-only market specializes in locally grown, pesticide-free produce and plants, baked goods, local honey, Florida grove pepper sauces, cheeses, award-winning BBQ sauces and rubs, homemade jams and jellies, natural pet treats, plus a ton of crafts, clothing, and jewelry. For more information, you can contact Lynn Greenfield at (863) 676-8782 or visit www.lwmainstreet.com/farmers-market.

OCTOBER 22 – 23 • BONNET SPRINGS PARK GRAND OPENING

Located at 400 Bonnet Springs Blvd in Lakeland, the free public will celebrate its Grand Opening with local food trucks and special events. Although pets will be welcome in the park after the Grand Opening Weekend, visitors are asked to please leave their furry friends home during this event.

OCTOBER 1, 8, 15, 22, AND 29, NOVEMBER 5, 12, 19 AND 26 SATURDAY NIGHT RODEO

This fun, family-friendly rodeo takes place every Saturday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo, located at 3200 River Ranch Blvd in River Ranch. Enjoy the antics of cowpokes and bronco busters as they show off their skills in trick riding, bull riding, calf roping, barrel racing, and more. Kids are invited into the rodeo arena toward the end of the night to participate in a real “calf scramble.” Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 5 – 12, and children ages 4 and under are free. For more information, please visit westgateresorts. com/hotels/florida/river-ranch/westgate-riverranch-resort/activities/rodeo/.

OCTOBER 15 – NOVEMBER 6 HEARTLAND FESTIVAL

Every second Thursday of the month you can take your favorite canine with you to enjoy a large selection of beer and enter a raffle to win a gift basket. Sponsored by Orchid Springs Animal Hospital and held at Union Taproom, located at 245 W Central Ave #102 in Winter Haven, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Call (863) 268-4921 for more information.

OCTOBER 20 – 22

ROCK N BREWS

BBQ FESTIVAL

An FBA Sanctioned BBQ competition featuring Professional, Backyard, and Kids cook-offs, a bonfire, craft fair, and live music from local bands will be held at Camp Mack, a Guy Harvey Lodge, Marina & RV Resort. General admission is free. For more information, please go to www.guyharveycampmack.com/rockn-brews-bbq/.

OCTOBER 29 – 30

PIONEER DAY FESTIVAL

The Lake Wales History Museum will host the 45th annual Pioneer Days Festival from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day. It is fun for the whole family and free with historical demonstrators, pioneer camps, craft market vendors, live music, festival refreshments, car and tractor show, and a Pumpkin Patch activity area for kids. The Museum is located at 325 S Scenic Hwy in Lake Wales. You can learn more at www. visitcentralflorida.org/featured/lake-wales-historymuseum/.

Recipe Spotlight

The Season for Seasonings

by CAROL CORLEY

AAS A GIRL, I considered my mother a very good cook — our meals were excellent. Her flavorings consisted of salt and pepper and maybe bay leaves with roast beef. Once out on my own and meeting friends of different backgrounds, I learned of so many more options to make meals interesting and tasty.

Now I find myself looking into still more flavorings — like lavender, saf fron, cardamom, cumin, ginger, marjoram, tarragon, and turmeric, among others. Each flavoring is a new dining experience, and they all mix well with Florida foods.

Some of these herbs and spices can be grown in Florida — lavender (well-known in France) is actually grown at Southern Grace Lavender Farm, near Panama City. Saffron, the most expensive spice in the world, is more of a challenge because it requires a low annual rainfall. But it can be grown in pots. It takes about 75,000 saffron flowers to make one pound of the spice, and harvesting must be done manually. It can cost more than gold, which actually can be served on food. I’ve had it sprinkled on choco late, but it is inert and has no flavor. It’s just pretty.

Saffron has a sweet, floral taste, a bit earthy. Some sense a metallic or slightly bitter taste. Greek saffron is highly desirable, and the spice is known to contain powerful antioxidants, as well as vitamins and minerals. If it’s inexpensive, I wouldn’t trust its purity.

Seafood paella is a way to try saffron with some of our fabulous Florida seafood, and it isn’t as difficult as it looks.

SEAFOOD PAELLA

(Adapted from bonappetit.com)

Ingredients

Saffron, 1/2 teaspoon threads, not powdered Shrimp, Florida, 10 large, head on, shell on Littleneck clams, Florida, 10 scrubbed Lemons, Florida, 3 quartered Green beans, 6 oz trimmed Vidalia onions, 6 trimmed

Yellow onion, 1 large, finely chopped Pancetta, 6 oz cut into 1/2-inch pieces

Red bell pepper, 1 cut into 1/2-inch strips

Garlic, 4 cloves thinly sliced

Fresh parsley, 1/3 cup chopped

Serrano chile, 1 coarsely chopped if desired

Olive oil, 10 tablespoons divided Paprika, 1-1/2 teaspoons

Spanish paprika, hot, smoked, 1/2 teaspoon if desired Sherry, 1/2 cup dry

Short-grain rice, 3 cups

Chicken broth, 6 cups

Zest from Florida orange, 3 wide strips

SEAFOOD PAELLA continued

Directions

Using 6 tablespoons olive oil, puree chile, and parsley with salt in a food processor until smooth, and set aside. Meanwhile, cook pancetta in a paella pan with 1 tablespoon oil until browned and crisp, about 4-5 minutes. Add yellow onion and bell pepper and cook stirring occasionally for another 8-10 minutes until softened. Then add garlic and paprikas and stir for another minute. Now add sherry, bring to a simmer and stir constantly for about 3 minutes, or until the pan is almost dry. Add rice and cook until rice is coated and turning translucent, about 3 minutes. Next, stir in broth, orange zest, salt, and saffron. Bring all to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until rice is cooked, about 12-15 minutes. Now pluck out zest and place clams into rice in the center of the pan. Cook for about 1215 minutes until the clams start to open. Cover the pan with foil and simmer for about 8-10 minutes until rice is al dente (cooked but a bit firm) and clams are fully open — discard any clams that don’t open. Remove from heat and let the rice continue to steam covered for another 10 minutes.

Now separately toss spring onions, green beans, and shrimp with 1 tablespoon oil each in separate bowls, and season with salt and pepper. Grill in a pan over medium-high heat first spring onions for about 5 minutes until greens are charred and bulbs are tender, then shrimp about 3 minutes per side, then lemons until charred, about 1 minute per side. Now it’s time to put it all together — arrange spring onions, green beans, and prawns over paella, squeeze some lemon juice, and place lemon wedges on top. Enjoy.

When I think of lavender, the first thing I think of is dessert. But how about lavender chicken?

CHICKEN AND LEMON WITH LAVENDER

(Adapted from The Little Paris Kitchen)

Ingredients

Lavender, 1-3/4 tablespoons dried (stronger than fresh)

Lavender honey, 3 tablespoons, can use regular honey

Lemon, juice, and zest of 1 Florida lemon

Olive oil, 3 tablespoons

Thyme, 2 sprigs Chicken, 6-8 pieces

Salt to taste

Directions

Finely crush lavender using a mortar and pestle, then combine in a large bowl with oil, honey, thyme, Florida lemon zest, and juice. Add chicken pieces, coating well, and salt to taste. Marinate for up to 4 hours.

Put chicken and marinade in a roasting pan and place in an oven preheated to 400F for 45 minutes, turning at the halfway point. Cook until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165F and the juices run clear.

Serve chicken with cooking juices poured over.

CARDAMOM-SCENTED GRASS-FED RIB STEAK WITH HERB VINAIGRETTE

(Adapted from epicurious.com)

Ingredients

Rib-eye steak from Florida grass-fed beef, 1 pound

Cardamom pods, 3 crushed Garlic, 3 cloves crushed Bay leaves, 2 Vinegar, 2 tablespoons red wine White wine, 1/2 cup Honey, 1 tablespoon Olive oil, 3 tablespoons Champagne vinegar, 1 tablespoon

Fresh chopped herbs such as chives, parsley, tarragon, or choice

Directions

Marinate beef for 8 hours in a mixture of herbs, wine, and vinegar. After finished, remove the beef and pat dry. Cook slowly for 10 minutes in 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a pan at medium-high heat. Turn and cook for another 5 minutes, then allow to rest for 5 minutes. Whisk together 2 tablespoons of olive oil with champagne vinegar and herbs. Slice thinly and serve.

SOLD

— AUCTION

AUCTION

In The Heartland Dakin Dairy Farm Tour September 2022

photos provided by JENNIFER SWAIN

J

JUST BEFORE HURRICANE IAN rocked Southeast Florida, Highlands County neighbor Dakin Dairy in Myakka City hosted a farm tour. They taught their visitors interesting facts about dairy farmers and cows. For instance, did you know there are about 125,000 dairy cows in Florida that collectively produce about 300 million gallons of milk a year? And did you know that Florida dairy farmers recycle about 170,000 tons of byproducts such as citrus pulp, brewers’ grain, and whole cottonseed that are consumed by the cows instead of ending up in landfills?

Even though Dakin Dairy suffered a painful blow from the hurricane, they’ve been using their site as a hub to help the community. ag

Highlands County

“I put my heart into saving yours.”

It’s not just an ID badge. It’s a badge of honor.

At Winter Haven Hospital, we give you compassionate, highquality care in a comfortable atmosphere. Our Bostick Heart Center focuses on providing a full continuum of cardiac care to the communities of central Florida. You’ll get cutting-edge heart care at our center, which can now meet the growing demand for minimally invasive procedures that include transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) and WATCHMAN™. And our state-of-the-art catheterization labs and intensive care units use the latest technologies. At Winter Haven Hospital, we make sure you’ll receive the extraordinary heart care you deserve. Learn more: WinterHavenHeart.org

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS

GRIFFIN FERTILIZER Here for the grower, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Offices in Frostproof, 863-635-2281, and LaBelle, 863-675-7444

Phillip Rucks Citrus Nursery, Inc. Citrus, peaches, eucalyptus, bamboo, etc. 863-635-1948

info@rucksnursery.com ruckscitrusnursery.com • floridagrownspecialties.com

ANIMAL SERVICES

Quality Veterinary Care for your Horses and Cattle

POLK EQUINE - (863) 287-8413 PolkEquine.com

AGRICULTURAL SERVICES

AQUATIC WEED MANAGEMENT - Lake & Pond Maintenance - Permitting - Re-Vegetation Manual & Mechanical Removal (863) 412-1919 • waterweed1@aol.com

• Certified Public Accountants - Bunting Tripp and Ingley - A Tradition of Excellence for more than 80 Years - (863) 676-7981

Farm Bureau Insurance Offices Throughout Central Florida! 24/7 Claims Reporting Toll Free (866) 275-7322 floridafarmbureau.com

Florida’s Natural Grove House Visitor Center Tour • Exhibits • Gift Shop Open seasonally October-May 20160 Hwy 27 • Lake Wales FloridasNaturalGroveHouse.com

Florida Flywheelers

Come Explore Our Village!

7000 Avon Park Cutoff Rd. • Fort Meade 1-863-285-9121 • floridaflywheelers.com

Garrison Land Management

Certified and Licensed Pest Control Firm

863-439-6550 GarrisonLand.com

Garrison Property Services

We’re the Key to Making Life Easy for You! Real Estate, Lawn Care, Pest Control, and more! 863-439-6550

GarrisonPropertyServices.com

• Irrigation Services of Central Florida -

Ag irrigation is our specialty, Jimmy Durden, Irrigation Specialist - (863) 875-5722.

Ring Power Corporation

Special Financing Rate - 0% for 60 months,$0 down. (888) 748-7464 • CatRentalStore.com

5 V Crimp Metal

for farms ranches and home. With the accessories. Email tripsonmt@aol.com Call/text 772-473-1714

Ask for Mark Tripson

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL SERVICES

HIRING!

CONCEALED CARRY GUN SAFETY COURSES -starting at just $40.00 per person. Call (863) 655-1010 to register for the next class. Tell ‘em AgNews sent ya. SprayAndPrayReloading.com

WE BUY GUNS Collections of Multiple Firearms, All makes & Calibers.

Top Dollar, CASH | 863-655-1010

• Cost Effective Citrus Management & Marketing - Please contact us today to see how we may service your needs. 638-1619 StoryCompanies.com

Stromberg’s Chicks & Game Birds Order Early! Chick Days 800-720-1134 ChickDaysFlorida.com

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

My Payroll Solutions LLC has over 20 years of experience in matching small businesses, Agriculture Companies and harvesters to staffing services and employee leasing companies, which provide payroll services with workers comp coverage and assistance with H2A applications for our clients. For more information contact Jeff H Futch at 863-835-1130.

Ag News magazine is looking for a creative, outgoing, and organized person to represent our brand and our suite of advertising products. If you love the rural lifestyle and the ag community and are a charming and/or a persuasive person you may be a good fit with Ag News.

that’s you, please

letter

resume

Kicking Off Competition Season With Fall Preliminaries

by TESSA MULLIS, Polk County FFA Federation Officer

WWITH SCHOOL BACK IN SESSION, FFA chapters across the county have opened their doors to new members and have begun gearing up for several different events.

competition season has opened up, we have several upcoming events for members to participate in.

October 21 marks the first day of Fall prelimi naries for several competitions. These events will be held online through each individual school. Several competitions are open to both middle school and high school members, like Food Sci ence, Environmental Science, Citrus Evaluation, and Vegetable Evaluation. Additionally, Tool ID is open only to middle school members and Ag riculture Education is open only to high school members.

Each of these competitions is unique and fo cuses on several different aspects of industries within agriculture. These events will test a team’s abilities in their respective areas, giving each member an opportunity to showcase their tal ents and dedication. There truly is something for everybody! I want to wish the very best of luck to

Convention will be held in Indianapolis, Indiana. This year several Polk County FFA members will be traveling to Indiana to experience the unpar alleled National Convention. This convention al lows FFA members across the nation to interact with one another and bond over the one thing that ties FFA together, our love of agriculture. The convention will allow students to attend workshops, widen their agricultural perspective, and hear from the National FFA officers during general sessions. This trip also allows students to experience agritourism around the Indianapo lis area, expanding their agricultural knowledge and experiences.

At the National Convention there will not only be a strong presence of our Polk FFA mem bers, but a showcase of the extraordinary talent of some of our Polk members. George Jenkins FFA will be competing in the national forestry contest. Additionally, Frostproof will have two

members, Lindsey True and Wilhelmina Ullrich, competing in the national agriscience fair under the Social Sciences category. Congratulations to these members for making it to the national lev el!

The coveted American degree is the highest degree an FFA member can receive. The gold standard denotes the dedication, drive, and suc cess an FFA member has pursued within this or ganization. This year, several Polk FFA graduates will receive this honor on the national stage at the National FFA convention. Congratulations to these former Polk FFA members on your im mense accomplishment.

We are thrilled to see Polk County represent ed by some of the best and brightest at the Na tional convention, and we look forward to the outcomes of the upcoming fall events. ag

There When

TREE DEFENDER REDUCES WATER USE, NUTRIENT RUNOFF

A Lifetime of Service

continued from page 15

MANY FLORIDA CITRUS GROWERS

a balancing act of maximizing the growth of their crop while minimizing water consumption and reducing excessive nutrient/fertilizer runoff into the state’s waterways. This balancing act is made more challenging by the state’s Best Management Practices (BMP) Program, through which growers voluntarily abide by state-set guidelines for nutrient management in various crops.

The growers may find some respite by the passage of Florida Senate Bill 1000: Nutrient Application Rates. This bill, sponsored by Sen. Ben Albrit ton (R - Wauchula), tweaks the current BMP Program, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach by providing customized fertilizer rates for specific groves. The new fertilizer rates will be based on updated research from UF/ IFAS, which the bill also funds. This bill should help BMP participants stay in compliance with the program.

In response to the passage of SB 1000, we at Tree Defender are working in collaboration with university researchers to validate the full potential impact that our new innovative and patented IPC design can have. Our most recent Individual Protective Covering was developed to have a positive impact on both irrigation water consumption and nutrient/fertilizer runoff.

Our in-house research team has shown that our technology has the po tential to reduce irrigation and liquid fertilizer usage by approximately 80 percent in young citrus plantings as well as any other tree crops utilizing micro-sprinkler irrigation. The Tree Defender could also be effective in con taining and preventing excessive runoff of the slow-release granular fertiliz ers that are commonly used today.

These two possible reductions could not only help blunt the impact of ris ing fertilizer costs by reducing grower inputs but also allow grow ers to tap into more cost-share dollars that are available for water-saving and nutrient-reduction practices. These sus tainable practices can be a win/win for everyone as long as they are economically viable and, most importantly, paired with common sense.

By demonstrating a significant reduction of wasted fertilizer in the young plantings that use The Tree Defender, reasonable and ade quate application rates will be allowed for the mature tree blocks, where it is needed most.

We are hopeful Tree Defender will prove to be a valuable improvement to current BMPs and support new initiatives such as SB 1000.

by SCOTT THOMPSON

This column is sponsored by Tree Defender, and the opinions expressed herein may not reflect those of CFAN or of its advertisers.

BIO: Scott Thompson is co-founder of Tree Defender, Radical Ag-Tech, and Care Planet Technologies. He is a Central Florida native with a background in agribusiness, food manufacturing, and bioscience.

After earning his master’s degree in 1983 with highest honors, McA voy was offered a job in Jamaica with Care International. McAvoy and his wife, along with their two young sons, relocated to Jamaica, where they spent six years setting up a vegetable growers cooperative. He considers this his most significant agricultural accomplishment.

“We started with seven farmers and grew to 300 farmers. We were shipping 50,000 pounds of callaloo a week as well as tens of thousands of mangos, increasing the amount of money Jamaican farmers made.”

According to McAvoy, “we were not competing with American farm ers because we grew a lot of Jamaican specialty products and shipped them to the U.S. Jamaicans in the U.S. would pay a lot for a taste of home.”

After building such a successful cooperative, McAvoy and his family moved to Florida and bought a small farm on Pine Island to try to grow some of those Jamaican products.

“It was a dream come true,” he says. That dream became a nightmare when they learned the property had numerous violations.

“My wife and I had to take regular jobs to make ends meet.”

Things turned around when McAvoy was offered a job in Swaziland working with vegetable growers for much higher pay. The fall of the So viet Union spelled the end of his contract, and after 14 years in total of working overseas, McAvoy and his family returned to the States once and for all. He was offered a choice of jobs for several counties through the University of Florida. He took an extension job at UF for Hendry Coun ty, where he and his wife currently reside. Although McAvoy retired in 2019, he was asked to return to UF as an Associate Director.

Currently, McAvoy is president of Have Gun Will Travel Agricultur al Consulting and performs damage assessments for citrus insurance claims.

He’s left a legacy of knowledge, provision, and opportunity for growth in the agricultural community worldwide and through his sons; one of his sons is an agricultural engineer, while the other is a vegetable special ist at the University of Georgia.

Of the many roles McAvoy has assumed in his lifetime, he says the past 25 years as the Regional Vegetable Agent in Southwest Florida have been his favorite.

“I made a lot of friends and helped people through difficult times,” he says.

“I helped farmers remain competitive in a tough environment. Agri culture in general is my passion. I love the land and to see crops grow and feed people.” ag

Irrigation Services of

Blueprint for an Amazing Agriculture Website

Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.

With every generation, we get better at protecting our environment.

From the Editor’s Desk

Hurricane Assistance Resources

JESSICA M c DONALD, Editor jessica@centralfloridamediagroup.com

IN THE WEEKS SINCE HURRICANE IAN made landfall in southwest Florida, we’ve seen some truly heart-wrenching photos of the damage growers faced throughout the state. Fields are flooded and trees are blown over. Recovery is definitely going to be a long process. Thankfully, there are plenty of resources available for those who need help. I’ve compiled a list of some of those resources here.

• USDA Risk Management Agency’s Crop Insurance Face Sheet bit.ly/3Cq0DLA

• Florida Cattlemen’s Association Relief Efforts: fca.memberclicks.net/hurricane-ian-emergency-info

• Luis O. Rodriguez, Polk County Small Farms Extension Agent for site visits: lrodriguezrosado@ufl.edu • 863-519-1049

• Citrus Producers Guide for Hurricane Preparation and Recovery https://bit.ly/3CM6vAa

• Federal Disaster Assistance Programs

— Emergency Farm Loans: fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSAPublic/usdafiles/FactSheets/2019/emergency-loan-program.pdf

— Disaster Set-Aside Program fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/ FactSheets/2019/disaster-set-aside-program-factsheet-19.pdf

— Tree Assistance Program fsa.usda.gov/Assets/USDA-FSA-Public/usdafiles/FactSheets/ tree_assistance_program-tap-fact_sheet.pdf

• Florida Citrus Mutual Storm Center flcitrusmutual.com/hurricaneian

• Citrus Research and Education Center crec.ifas.ufl.edu/citrus-research/ ag

LABOR SOLUTIONS FOUNDER