MAY 2015
Florida’s Horticulture Industry
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Since 1972 Still Family Owned and Operated * $0 down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 48 months on purchases of new Kubota equipment (excluding T, GR, G, F, Z100, ZG100 & VS Series) is available to qualified purchasers from participating dealers’ in-stock inventory through 3/31/2015. Example: A 48-month monthly installment repayment term at 0% A.P.R. requires 48 payments of $20.83 per $1,000 financed. 0% A.P.R. interest is available to customers if no dealer documentation preparation fee is charged. Dealer charge for document preparation fee shall be in accordance with state laws. Inclusion of ineligible equipment may result in a higher blended A.P.R. Not available for Rental, National Accounts or Governmental customers. 0% A.P.R. and low rate financing may not be available with customer instant rebate offers. Financing is available through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A., 3401 Del Amo Blvd., Torrance, CA 90503; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Offer expires 3/31/2015. See us for details on these and other low-rate options or go to www.kubota.com for more information. KDCA-14-CreelTractorMag-1
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
May 2015
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
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MAY 2015
May Features 22
Florida Nursery Growers Landscape Association
26
Florida Association of Native Nurseries
By Brady Vogt
28
Florida’s Historical Society
38
Island Grove Ag Products
By Ron Lambert
40
Stone Fruit
By Robbi Sumner
44
Robbi Watrous
By Brady Vogt
46
Livestock Results
Glades County Fair
Hendry County Fair
Southwest & Lee County Fair
54
Livestock Leaders of the Future
By Audra Clemons
62
Adams Ranch Rodeo
By Kathy Gregg
64
Lee County hosts PRORODEO
By Kathy Gregg
66
Arcadia Youth Rodeo’s Annual Banquet
By Kathy Gregg
70
Future Farmers of America
6
Departments 16
SW Florida Gulf Coast
Fishing Report
By Captain Chris O’Neill
20
Citrus Update
By Justin Smith
72
Getaway Girl-
July 4th July 4th Destinations
By Casey Wohl Hartt
74 Happenings Next Month Look out next month for annual florida Cattle Industry Issue
Young Eagles Agricultural Aviation
Heartland InTheField Magazine
May 2015
Reclaiming the land for future generations is
Ashlee Harrison, Reclamation Ecologist South Pasture Mine, Hardee County
As an ecologist, I am part of a dedicated team that oversees the reclamation of Mosaic’s mined lands. Before phosphate operations begin, I work with scientists, engineers and environmental specialists to carefully plan for reclaimed land uses. Last year, those plans included planting more than 2 million trees — and reclaiming land for wildlife habitats, parks, agriculture and other productive uses. There’s a reason Mosaic’s 4,000 Florida employees are so passionate about reclamation: we know our kids and grandkids will enjoy these lands for generations to come. We help the world grow the food it needs.
May 2015
®
mosaicco.com/florida
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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Publisher Rhonda Glisson Rhonda@heartlanditf.com Karen Berry kdberry@inthefieldmagazine.com Business Manager Nadine Glisson Lizette Sarria Art Directors Carrie Evans Olivia Fryer Staff Writers Cindy Cutright Ron Lambert Levi Lambert Brian Norris Kyndall Robertson Justin Smith Robbi Sumner Dixie Thomas Brady Vogt Contributing Writers Taylor Dupree Brewington Audra Clemons Kathy Gregg Laurie Hurner Tim Hurner Capt. Mark King Capt. Chris O’Neill Bob Stone Brenda Valentine Matt Warren Butch Wilson Lindsey Wiggins Casey Wohl Social Media Director Robbi SUmner Photography Regina Blackman Kathy Gregg Russell Hancock Silver King Photography Nell McAuley Brian Norris
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Editor’s Note It’s hard to believe that we are already into the fifth month of 2015! For many of us, the April showers are bringing May flowers, not to mention other plants and crops. Spring is a great time to focus on horticulture, or the cultivation of a garden, orchard, or nursery including flowers, fruits, vegetables, or ornamental plants.
Our friends at Fresh from Florida® and the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association provided us with a great deal of information that we share throughout this issue. For example, did you know that Florida’s horticulture industry had cash receipts of $1.6 billion in 2013? That’s quite an economic impact for our state. This month wraps up our coverage of Heartland livestock shows and fairs. Inside you’ll find recaps of shows in Hendry, Glades, and Lee counties. Now it’s time for our youth to finish up their record books and CDEs!
On page 38, Ron Lambert introduces to us the folks at Island Grove Ag Products. This innovative company is a forerunner in the Florida blueberry and peach industries with both nursery and fresh fruit production. They even solved the challenge of what to do with left-over fresh fruit by establishing Island Grove Wine Company whose products are now distributed in 300 outlets statewide. Kathy Gregg catches us up on the local rodeo circuits with coverage of some local youth, ranch, and PRCA rodeos. One thing’s for sure, there’s been plenty of wild and woolly action for all ages! Our nation will celebrate its Independence Day before you know it, and The Getaway Girl is offers up a few ideas for “Festive Fourth of July Destinations.” It may seem early, but with the busy summer months, it’s best to make holiday travel plans and reservations now.
As always, we love to hear from our readers! If you have an idea for a story or know of an event we should cover, please let us know. You can email Rhonda@heartlanditf.com or share on Facebook. com/HeartlandMagazine.
All of us at Heartland Magazine
Heartland in the Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local businesses, restaurants and other local venues within Hardee, Highlands, DeSoto, Charlotte, Glades, Hendry, Okeechobee, Lee, Manatee and St. Lucie Counties. Letters, comments and questions can be sent to Heartland In the Field Magazine, P.O. Box 3183 Plant City, FL. 33563 or you are welcome to e-mail them to Rhonda@ heartlanditf.com or call 813-708-3661. Advertisers warrant & represent the description of their products advertised are true in all respects. Heartland In the Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by their advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of G Five Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in Heartland In the Field Magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications and G Five. All contents Copyright 2015. No part of this work may be copied, transmitted, reproduced or reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher. Annual subscriptions to receive Heartland A Way of Life at your home or business is $25 annually. For advertising, subscriptions or editorial questions please call 813-708-3661 or email rhonda@heartlanditf.com. Heartland® A Way Of Life In The Field publication has been in print since 2008.
Heartland InTheField Magazine
May 2015
JOIN THE “FRESH
FROM FLORIDA”
PROGRAM “Fresh From Florida” is a program administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. It is designed to connect distributors and retail buyers with Florida growers to increase sales of Florida products. To learn more about the program benefits, visit FreshFromFlorida.com/Join or call 850-617-7399.
MAY 2015
Index of Advertisers 83 Arcadia Stockyard
77 Griffin’s Carpet Mart
20 Peace River Citrus
78 Big T Tire
53 Hardee Ranch Supply
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59 Cattlemen’s Livestock Market
59 Heartland Growers Supply
84 Quail Creek Plantation
14 Cherry Lake Tree Farm
11 Hicks Oil
81 River Pasture
2 Creel
15 Highlands Farm Bureau Thank You
31 Seedway
79 Cross Ties
37 Island Grove Ag Products
79 Spring Lake Hardware
85 Domer’s Inc.
43 Island Grove Ag Products/
82 Stampede
57 Everglades Farm Equipment
79 Superior Muffler
86 Farm Credit
87 Kelly Tractor
5
37 Fields Equipment
27 Labelle Feed
31 The Andersons
31 5 K-4th Annual Send Me Missions
7
25 Trinkle RedmanCoton
9
Florida Department of Agriculture
79 Michael G. Kirsch
77 Tutto Fresco Italian Grill
5
Florida Fence Post
7 Mosaic
56 Walpole Feed
84 Florida Mineral &
21 Newton Crouch
88 Watering Hole
55 Okeechobee Livestock Market
31 Wicks Brown CPA
83 Florida Propane
19 On-Site Accounting
79 Williams Pawn & Gun
25 Glade & Grove
15 Other Side Sod
79 Winfield Solutions
4
43 Pathway
Agriculture Products
Glisson’s Animal Supply
Nursery Division
Marmer Construction
Plant Food Systems
Taylor Oil
Sales Team Highlands
Morgan Norris
Manatee
Tina Yoder
Lee and Hendry
Cindy Cutright
morgan@heartlanditf.com
tina@heartlanditf.com
cindy@heartlanditf.com
Hardee & Desoto
Charlotte
Okeechobee, Glades & St. Lucie
Robbi Sumner
robbi@heartlanditf.com
Morgan Norris
morgan@heartlanditf.com
Levi Lambert
levi@heartlanditf.com
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
Robbi Sumner
robbi@heartlanditf.com
Corporate, Polk & Hillsborough
Danny Crampton
danny@inthefieldmagazine.com
Morgan Norris
morgan@heartlanditf.com
Rhonda Glisson
rhonda@heartlanditf.com
May 2015
District 6 Update From the Desk of Andy Neuhofer
This year the Farm Bureau Youth Speech Contest for District 6 will be held on May 19th in Arcadia at 6:30 PM. The topic is “How does Florida’s Right to Farm Act help farmers and ranchers when their rights are challenged?” The contest is open to those from the ages of 14 to 18. Contestants will have to enter on the county Farm Bureau level. The winner of the county competition will compete in Arcadia at the District level. The District winner will compete at the Florida Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting in Ponte Vedra October 29, 2015. Please contact me at andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org if you are interested.
The Florida Farm Bureau Young Farmer & Rancher Leadership Conference is in Naples July 17 – 19. Interested members may receive more information and register at www.floridafarmbureau.org. The conference is a great opportunity to learn new
ANDY NEUHOFER FLORIDA FARM BUREAU DISTRICT 6 352.318.2506 Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org www.floridafarmbureau.org
skills and meet other YF&R members from across Florida who are engaged in agriculture. Two $250 scholarships are available for first time attendees.
Contest applications are also available at www. floridafarmbureau.org. Participation in the Discussion Meet will begin at the YF&R conference. The finals will be held at the FFBF Annual Meeting in Ponte Vedra. The Achievement Award and the Excellence in Agriculture Award winners will be announced at the FFBF Annual Meeting.
Membership is of utmost importance and we need your help to grow. If you are a farmer, rancher or someone involved in agriculture, you need to be a member if you are not at the present time. If you are interested in keeping farming and ranching profitable and producing, join Farm Bureau. Please consider asking your friends and neighbors to join. Each county Farm Bureau sets its dues but I can help you get in touch with your local Farm Bureau by contacting me at 352.318.2506.
ANDY NEUHOFER • FLORIDA FARM BUREAU DISTRICT 6 352.318.2506 | Andy.neuhofer@ffbf.org | www.floridafarmbureau.org
May 2015
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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May 2015
DESOTO/CHARLOTTE COUNTY
HARDEE COUNTY
1278 SE US HIGHWAY 31 • ARCADIA, FL 34266
1017 US HIGHWAY 17 N • WAUCHULA, FL. 33873
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 863.494.3636 Charlotte Line: 941.624.3981 • Fax: 863.494.4332
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 863. 773. 3117 Fax: 863. 773. 2369
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
FARM BUREAU
President…………....Jim Selph Vice President……….Matt Harrison Sec./Treasurer...... Bryan Beswick
DIRECTORS FOR 2013-2014 John Burtscher Mike Carter Steve Fussell Brandon Gorsuch
Lindsay Harrington Richard E. Harvin Ann H. Ryals J Ryals
Mac Turner Bryan K. Beswick Ken Harrison
FARM BUREAU
President……David Royal Vice President…Greg Shackelford Sec./Treasurer……..Bo Rich Representative………..Bill Hodge
DIRECTORS FOR 2014-2015 Barney Cherry Scott Henderson Steve Johnson
Corey Lambert Dan Smith Tommy Watkins
Federation Secretary Leona Nickerson
Federation Secretary Mary Jo Spicer
FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager: Cameron N. Jolly Agents: Clint Brown
FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS Agency Manager: N. Jay Bryan Agents: George L. Wadsworth, Jr.
HIGHLANDS COUNTY
MANATEE COUNTY
6419 US HIGHWAY 27 S. • SEBRING, FL 33876
5620 TARA BLVD, STE 101 • BRADENTON, FL 34203
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 863. 385. 5141 • Fax: 863. 385. 5356 Website: www.highlandsfarmbureau.com
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone: 941-746-6161 • Fax: 941-739-7846 Website: www.manateecountyfarmbureau.org
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
FARM BUREAU
President………Doug Miller Vice President…Carey Howerton Secretary………..Frank Youngman Treasurer……..Jeff Williams
DIRECTORS FOR 2014-2015 Sam Bronson Danielle Daum Steve Farr
Charles Guerndt Justin Hood Scott Kirouac Mike Milicevic
Trevor Murph Emma Ezell Trey Whitehurst
FARM BUREAU
President……Gary Reeder Vice President…Jim Parks Secretary……..Ben King Treasurer……..Robert Zeliff
DIRECTORS FOR 2013-2014 Carlos Blanco Gary Bradshaw Jerry Dakin Ralph Garrison
Ken Hawkins Alan Jones Vick Keen Bruce Shackelford
Jim Strickland Hugh Taylor Dan West
Federation Secretary Janet Menges
Federation Secretary Christie Hinson
FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS
FARM BUREAU INSURANCE.SPECIAL AGENTS
Agency Manager: Chad D. McWaters Agents: Joseph W. Bullington
May 2015
Agency Manager: Branden Bunch Agents: Doug Dierdorf, Jeff Hamer and Clint Bailey
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
May 2015
Thank You... To Highlands County Farm Bureau’s Heritage Sponsors
Please support these businesses! May 2015
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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SW FLORIDA GULF COAST
FISHING REPORT
By Captain Chris O’Neill
May is the month of Silver here in the tarpon capital of the world. Fifty to a hundred thousand of the giant silver king tarpon have moved into the Charlotte Harbor estuary. Anglers travel from around the globe to take a chance at wrangling with one of the most exciting and powerful gamefish on the planet. It’s an exciting time of year with tropical conditions, beautiful sunrises and sunsets with a typical midday coastal rain mixed in to cool things off before the afternoon fishing begins.
Inshore anglers are encountering a myriad of species throughout the shallows. Snook is the premier target while sightcasting in the flats. Snook traditionally will cruise the mangrove shorelines close to the grassy areas as the sun rises, searching for an early morning meal. This is the prime time of the day to work the areas with topwater plugs such as the Bomber Saltwater Grade Badonkadonk or Heddon One Knocker Spook. The advantage of throwing plugs is that you can cover a substantial amount of water, which will eventually get you into the fish. It’s truly tough to beat the exhilarating sight of a giant linesider (snook) blasting a topwater bait as you walk the dog across the surface. I cannot forget to mention that the trout and shark bite will be excellent throughout the summer months, and can easily be hauled in with the use of live bait under a popping cork or cut bait on the bottom. Boca Grande Pass/Charlotte Harbor and nearby beaches will be featured in my articles the next two editions of Heartland Magazine. May and June boast the best tarpon fishing in the world and the season has already kicked off with a big silver bang! Recreational anglers and professional guides have been doing well in both the pass, the harbor and along the beaches. The new and improved (and perfectly legal)
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
tarpon jig is doing extremely well when drifting the pass. The jig redesign is a result of regulation changes made by the FWC last fall. The new jig is better for the fish and will ensure that no fish will be snagged or foul hooked while drift fishing the deep waters of Boca Grande Pass where the fish stack up as much as 50 feet on top of each other during the spawn. Beach and Charlotte Harbor anglers are doing very well early and late in the day using traditional live baits like tarpon crab, squirrel fish, threadfins and other baitfish fished freeline or under a cork.
Nearshore and Offshore reef and bottom fishing is often forgotten this time of year along the gulf coast because of the amazing tarpon fishery. I love heading out into Florida State Waters to target permit, which are usually found hovering above our reef structure during tarpon season and the summer months. It’s a great idea to take those smaller tarpon crabs leftover from a morning of chasing “poons” and run out to scout any of our manmade reefs. Typically permit will show along the surface, but remember they are pelagics and move constantly in search of food. Sharks, Cobia and many others can be expected if you drop a line in the Gulf right now.
Booking a charter this time of year is a great opportunity to spend the day “catching”. My company offers inshore and offshore charters with a hand-picked team of worldclass guides to satisfy your private or corporate fishing needs. All of my guests receive complementary Tail Chaser t-shirts as well as the
Captain Chris O’Neill
is a full time fishing guide and host of The Reel Saltwater Outdoors radio show. Captain Chris is regularly seen on TV shows like Big Water Adventures, Florida Sportsman, Mark Sosin’s Saltwater Journal and others. As a retired U.S. Army hovercraft pilot, he has accrued over 25 years of saltwater experience and has targeted gamefish around the globe. His Reel Saltwater Outdoors Seminar Series has become the largest in the state and he speaks to thousands of anglers annually. His passion for fishing is contagious and you can always expect to have a great adventure when fishing onboard the Tail Chaser. To book a charter visit www.tailchasercharters. com or www.bocagrandetarpon.com for more information. You can listen to his FISH ON FRIDAY radio show via www.wengradio. com or the WENG app from 4-6pm weekly. Capt. Chris operates out of the world-class Gasparilla Marina in Placida, FL, just minutes from Boca Grande Pass (the tarpon capital of the world) and Charlotte Harbor.
May 2015
Saturday,April 18 was the date for the 15th annual Highlands County Farm Bureaus Cracker Fun Shoot at the beautiful Quail Creek Plantation. Bright and early ,Saturday morning a group of enthusiastic shooters gathered to have a another go with those sneaky clay targets. As always the personnel at Quail Creek were on hand to insure a great experience for all the participants. Fred Maria and staff once again were the great hosts that all who have been to Quail Creek are familiar with.
Congratulations to all who came out to make this event a success once again. High Overall TEAM Hood Citrus Caretaking 376 John Barcins 92 Joseph Franza 93 Brian Krameer 94 Joe Franza 97 High Runner-up TEAM Gator Smiles 368 Ray Royce 98 Clay Wilson 92 Charlie Wilson 90 Ray Broughton 88
High Overall INDIVIDUAL SHOOTER Talon Youngman 99
High Runner-up INDIVIDUAL SHOOTER Ray Royce 98 High Overall LADIES Stephanie Trombley High Overall YOUTH Jay Bible May 2015
87 94 Heartland InTheField Magazine
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15th Annual Gulf Citrus Country Gala
T
he Gulf Citrus Growers Association held its fifteenth Annual “Country Gala” at the LaBelle Civic Center on Saturday, March 28th. Over 350 folks representing growers and other industry interests from throughout the state and region attended.
The facility was beautifully decorated with fresh citrus provided by Duda. The thick, juicy steaks were cooked to perfection by members of the Hendry County Cattlemen’s Association, and served with all the fixins including locally grown potatoes from Troyer Brothers, Inc., and dessert prepared by Mrs. Peggy Hampton.
use, environmental regulation, farm worker relations, transportation, marketing, domestic and international trade programs, and other issues impacting the area’s agricultural industry.
The Gulf Citrus Growers Association is a trade association representing the citrus growers of Southwest Florida, including Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee Counties. GCGA strives to address key issues of economic importance to the sustainable growth and development of the citrus industry in our region. Such issues include land and water
Funds raised from this annual event are used to support the association’s many community and governmental outreach programs in Southwest Florida. GCGA is very blessed to have the support of many sponsors, donors, contributors, volunteers and attendees without whom the gala would not have been successful!
Special guest Summer Foley, Miss Florida Citrus, attended and assisted with various tasks throughout the evening. After dinner, the crowd anxiously awaited to learn who the winners of the multitude of bucket raffles, silent and live auction items, 50/50 drawing and the grand prize drawing of $1,000 were. This year the lucky winner of the grand prize drawing was Drew Dyess from Plant Food Systems.
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
The 2014-15 GCGA Board of Directors includes President Wayne Simmons, Vice President Paul Meador, Secretary Bob Newsome, Treasurer Aaron Troyer, Joe Hilliard II, Sam Jones, Ron Mahan, Mike Murphy, Bryan Paul, Carey Soud, Danny Sutton, and David Wheeler. Staff includes Executive Vice President Ron Hamel and Director, Administrative & Membership Services Bernadette Rashford.
May 2015
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Local decision making from people who understand the agriculture industry.
Agricultural Services • Agribusiness Lending • Equipment Leasing • Agribusiness Banking Services • Treasury Management • Wealth Management
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May 2015
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by Justin Smith CITRUS UPDATE By Justin Smith
A Changing Industry Imagine a Florida without homegrown Citrus. What will the landscape look like? What will the jobs be like? Where will the Orange Juice come from? All of these are very important and very real questions. The possibility is definitely there for Florida to no longer be the Capitol of citrus. For generations Floridians have grown up and been completely accustomed to walking out the back door and
picking an orange to have a snack. Likewise, Mom’s and Grandma’s have always served nothing but fresh squeezed juice. These are things that are quickly changing through Florida’s Heartland. In as little as one generation kids may not know the cool refreshing spring afternoon break under the canopy of a citrus tree. The rite of passage, of learning just how to cut the top of an orange to drink fresh OJ straight from the fruit may be gone. For some, these ideas are a very sad reality which is on the horizon. How about reaching past Florida? How many people all over the Country and even across the boarders are accustomed to the taste of a really great glass of Orange Juice? Do they understand that flavor is straight from Florida? Their kids, even they themselves may just have to get use to the taste of OJ being a little less “great” if things continue on the path they are going. So what would Central Florida look like without Citrus groves canvasing the landscape? The question is getting simpler to answer as groves are being removed at a rapid pace. Most are either becoming cattle pasture or subdivisions. There are a few acres going into replacement and specialty crops but for the most part it is beef and people. This is the new Florida production, houses and red meat.
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
Is all of this just a matter of time, to come to pass, or is there any chance that Florida’s largest and most valuable commodity will be saved. There are several possibilities of how everything is going to shake out. One is that there will still be a Citrus Industry; however, it will be but a shadow of its former self with just a handful of extremely large growers producing everything. It’s the typical corporate scenario where there are no longer any “mom and pop” small businesses. In this setting the market will become May 2015
much smaller and more tightly controlled. The up side, there will still be jobs and revenues available, but nowhere near as much and certainly not the $10 billion the economy has grown accustomed to.
There is still the glimmer of hope that lingers for some simile of what is considered the normal industry though. As money is poured into research there may still yet be a silver bullet out there and it could be found. The key will be to stay in business until then. For some of the most proactive growers this seems like it is possible, but there is one major factor that needs to be attained first. The factor that may save what is left of this beloved industry has two parts. They are communication and action. The most effective way of combating the current citrus crisis is killing psyllids. The only way psyllid control is ever going to work is if ALL growers will begin to kill them at the same time with the same formulation of chemical. There is direct correlations and documentation of effectiveness, including increased yields and quality where there is widespread and coordinated efforts to control psyllid populations.
it be done. There is documented proof there would be a phenomenal, beneficial impact to citrus industry if anything like this could be achieved. It would just take growers communicating and putting a plan into action.
So the Florida Citrus Industry is in for some type of major change beyond what has been seen in the last few years. That change may be that it simply disappears from everything except the history books. It may be that, like so many other things, it becomes just another global, corporate entity. Or there may be an actual unprecedented effort by many to work as a coherent group. Only time will tell.
If a State agency stated we could greatly impact the mosquito population of Florida by spraying in a single coordinated effort the public would not only cooperate but demand that
May 2015
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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CELEBRATING OVER 60 YEARS OF MEMBERSHIP Until 1951, the Florida State Nurserymen had been a part of the Florida State Florist and Nurserymen Association. In May of that year, some nurserymen members felt that with the growing importance of the nursery industry within Florida and with concerns not shared by the Florist group, a separate organization was needed.
The first official organized meeting was held in Miami on May 25-27, 1952 and a plan of organization was adopted. Dave Stabler of Winter Haven Nursery agreed to be president. James F. Griffin, Jr. came to what was then called FNGA as Executive Secretary in early 1953. Since that time, FNGLA has gained strength, popularity and clout-absorbing the Florida Foliage Association in 1993, the Florida Ornamental Growers Association in 1995 and the Florida Landscape Designers Association in 1999. During this time, FNGLA established itself as one of the largest and most active nursery associations in the country with a membership base of over 1,800 professionals.
Now in it’s sixth decade serving the industry, FNGLA is in its prime! The association represents all walks of the industry-foliage, woody ornamental, citrus nurseries, floriculture producers, interiorscapers, retailers, allied suppliers and landscape professionals - as proven by the addition of “landscape” to the FNGA name-making the association the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, FNGLA. Landscape contractors, landscape designers, landscape architects and the like now have an association targeting their needs. Government representation & monitoring, professional education and marketing projects encompass just some of the services.
EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS Floriculture Field Days
Hosted during the Epcot® International Flower and Garden Festival, FNGLA will broaden its successful partnership with Walt Disney World and host industry field trials for annuals, perennials and vegetative crops in conjunction with a cuttingedge industry educational conference.
Great Southern Landscape Field Days
The Great Southern Landscape Field Days is a cutting edge educational event centered around an outdoor demonstration area. Developed through the joint efforts of the Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association and the University of Florida, this conference feature high quality education for not only tree producers but also for woody ornamental growers and landscape professionals. The program’s mission is to develop and showcase innovative business strategies and sustainable landscape practices for growers and landscape professionals. Areas of focus are production, environmental resource management, new plant varieties, design, installation and maintenance
TPIE Short Course
The TPIE Short Course is held in conjunction with FNGLA’s Tropical Plant Industry Exhibition (TPIE) each January. TPIE’s Short Course links industry professional seeking top-quality educational programming with the programs they need to increase their knowledge. With a Garden Center track and an interiorscape track, attendees gain insight on the latest and greatest happenings in each specific area of the industry.
TLS Knowledge College
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
The TLS Knowledge College, formerly known as the FNGLA Short Course, is held in conjunction with FNGLA’s The Landscape Show each year. The two-day format offers programs on garden center management, grower management, landscape design and landscape management. To add to the educational experience, the TLS Knowledge College typically offers a guided tour of a premier Orlandoarea resort or garden area. Designed to excite even the most May 2015
seasoned landscape professional, this tour is generally an exciting day for those who choose to participate. Providing high school horticulture teachers with the tools to prepare their students for
CONSUMER EDUCATION Resources to learn how use the right plant for the right place
GrowSmart Campaign
To help spread the message of water conservation during unusually dry conditions, the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) and FNGLA have teamed up to bring GrowSmart!-- a public awareness campaign that encourages water-wise landscaping and promotes the use of “the right plant for the right place” and other Florida-friendly landscaping principles direct to Florida’s consumers! Look for GrowSmart! spots airing statewide.
Online Consumer Education
FNGLA’s consumer web site, www.floridagardening.org, is also a great resource for consumers. Event listings, tips and more make this web site the offiical “go-to” place for all things consumer gardening.
Partnering with the University of Florida - IFAS, FNGLA supports www.solutionsforyourlife.org as an ideal online venue for educating Florida’s consumers about Florida’s unique gardening challenges. Through the site, the University of Florida offers research-based assistance, information and advice to Florida’s gardeners and can even link users to the wealth of local extension services that are available for their area of the state.
As part of FNGLA’s efforts to connect gardening enthusiasts and to educate gardeners, a variety of social media efforts exist. You can follow or like these efforts and/or link your consumer groups to these efforts to help spread great Florida gardening information.
May 2015
Florida Gardeners on Facebook Florida Gardening on Pinterest www.floridagardening.org
YOUTH EDUCATION
Welcome to TeachHort.com
TeachHort.com provides high school horticulture teachers with the tools to prepare their students for FNGLA’s Certified Horticulture Professional (FCHP) exam.
The Florida Career and Professional Education (CAPE) Act was enacted into law in 2007. It requires public high schools to offer “rigorous and relevant” curriculum that leads to industry recognized certifications. Workforce Florida, Inc. and the Florida Department of Education have recognized the FCHP program as the horticulture certification that will comply with CAPE for Environmental Horticulture Science & In an effort to celebrate gardening, FNGLA is a proud sponsor of the Florida School Gardening Competition. The Florida School Garden Competition encourages teachers to intergrate school gardening experineces into their school curiculumn providing workshops and resources to help teachers succeed. The competition takes place each Spring and awards the top three schools in three categories: single class, multiple class and entire school garden.
For more details on FNGLA’s participation with the Florida School Garden Competition, contact Jennifer Nelis, (407) 2957994 or visit the competition’s website. Heartland InTheField Magazine
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Just three weeks until the industry’s top floriculture breeders and professionals converge at FNGLA’s Floriculture Field Days: May 13 & 14 in conjunction with the Epcot® International Flower and Garden Festival. Growers, landscape professionals and garden center retailers are gearing up to take in tips, details and information on the industry and on the over 68 varieties of plants being trialed across Central Florida! The 2015 event features select varieties in three different settings – with educational sessions and jam-packed days of happenings and countless opportunities!
Top Reasons to Attend:
• See, in action, the latest plant varieties breeders see as successes to the heat and humidity of Central Florida for 2015 and beyond. • Rejuvenate your passion for business and be one step ahead of your competitors by knowing which varieties will be great additions to your key client’s landscapes. • Learn marketing, maintenance and design strategies from top floriculture industry experts. • Meet face-to-face with breeder representatives and gather key information from allied sponsors that will help safeguard your business. • Pick up tips from colleagues as you tour all three trial garden site
Looking for Inspiration?
Foodscaping 101: Design With Color & Texture For Visionary Effect. Brienne Gluvna Arthur is part of a very exciting group of young people involved in the green industry committed to getting the message out that plants, gardening, and all things horticulture are the way of the future! Inspiring the new generation of gardeners, Brie has fine-tuned her signature design techniques of Foodscaping, a landscape design practice that embraces both beauty and utility in its function. From patio containers to suburban oasis design, her ideas will add a new flavor to your landscape designs in 2015 and beyond
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
Want to know about Trends? “What’s New and What’s Next in 2015 and Beyond”?
Previously, John Kennedy, John Kennedy Consulting, has spoken to our audiences about not “wasting this recession” and the need to change everything about your perspective and insight to what is possible!
John’s message is even more encouraging--”Don’t waste this recovery!” All economic indicators are showing a continuous improvement in the economic strength of our economy and you will want to take full advantage of every opportunity to drive momentum, margin and magical thinking!
How about Core Business Improvement?
THE BIG 4: Employees, Performance, Customers and Profitability Business is blooming again - are you ready to flourish? Jeffrey Scott will teach you how to engage your employees and create a high-performance team that operates with accountability and productivity. You will learn how to turn your employees and clients into raving fans, and boost your company’s growth and profitability.
The 2015 participating breeders are excited to see how their latest varieties met the challenge of Florida’s tough climate. This is a great opportunity for one-on-one time: Breeder representatives from Ball Flora Plant, Bates Sons and Daughters, Benary, Classic Caladiums, Greenfuse, Hem Genetics, Pan American Seeds, and, Sakata will be on hand to interact with attendees and provide individualized information on their plants and products.
May 2015
May 2015
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they couldn’t be because of the limited types of bushes and trees that were in production. Perhaps ninety percent of the first several years of calling for buffers to be planted with natives resulted in spavined lines of West Indies mahogany trees and wax myrtle bushes. Incidentally the wax myrtle is perhaps the most resistant (that means damaged by) of the native types, to formal shearing or hedging. Also, they do not grow in groups and lines out on the prairie, but are stand alone trees. As with most of the Florida natives, they would prefer to be left alone, and not subjected to the indignity of rotating blades driven by gasoline motors.
FLORIDA ASSOCIATION OF NATIVE NURSERIES BY BRADY VOGT
S
tate and local governments deserve a lot of credit for springing loose that is slipping the anchor, on the native plant industry. Back in the early 1980s, local governments that were experiencing rapid commercial growth began to call for vegetative buffers to roads, and hedges, groundcovers and canopy trees for parking lots to include plant species native to Florida. No one knew what they (the county) were talking about. If there were any natives growing at Pottinger’s or A.W. Kelley or Everglades Nursery it was mostly accidental, a group of second bananas you know, to colorful ornamentals. If someone had shown George Pottinger a three gallon Fakahatchee grass he would have guessed it was a vigorous growing weed. The county ordinances were not imaginative;
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About the same time, the state began to distribute brochures that called for a concept of landscaping that suggested lowered water usage…less turf and less water hungry types of bushes and trees, watered overhead with powerful impulse sprayers and irrigation heads that threw the precious stuff up into the air and let it fall where it may. The state called it XERISCAPE, from the Greek meaning more or less a dry vista. In addition to espousing the notion of less grass and better control over the way water was to be distributed, XERISCAPE introduced a new chapter into the book of landscape design history. The numerous brochures and pamphlets printed at government expense showed pictures of extraordinarily good looking plants, grasses, and groundcovers, and encouraged the public to use them. They had been right under our collective noses, that is architects, designers, installers, wholesale growers and retail nurseries, this last one nearly gone now as replaced by the mammoth garden centers that have traded charm for efficiency. A “native” by the way, which also might refer to people, is mostly identified as having been present on the land prior to the discoveries of Christopher Columbus in 1492, also called the time of European contact. One of the most endearing palms to any tropical setting, especially in silhouette against a bright moon, is the coconut. Not a native, it arrived accidentally on the coasts of Florida as spoils from wrecked ships carrying the precious nuts to the Caribbean islands to feed plantation workers. Appreciation of native plants has come a very long way. On April 9th and 10th, the Florida Association of Native Nurseries held its annual trade show at the Osceola Heritage Park exhibition building in Kissimmee. Dozens of growers from around the state assembled to share with each other and the public the wide array of flowering and leafy types that they had grown and intend to sell. FANN is an organization of wholesale growers, landscape professionals, environmental professionals, and nursery and landscape supply companies, sometimes called the “allied trades”. As expected and as is found now with all top-notch organizations, FANN has a fine website that lists its members and provides a great deal of science based information. In addition to identifying the various zones of hardiness throughout the peninsula, which speaks to how well a plant type will fare according to average May 2015
trades”. Robert brought samples of mulch made from various invasive trees, none more despised than the hated maleluca, or cajeput, or punk tree, introduced by science and government in the early 1900’s in order to absorb excess water from the Everglades runoff. Boy, do they wish they could do that one over!
low temperatures, there is a list of native plant communities, plant types, and wildlife usage. There are about one thousand floras that may be labeled Florida natives.
In your mind’s eye, imagine the distribution of those many species through the various plant community zones; beach, cypress swamp forest, forests of abundant cabbage palm, freshwater marshes, hydric hammocks, mangrove swamp, maritime forests, pine flat woods, pine rock lands, prairies, region of open scrub cypress, rock land hammocks, saltwater marshes, sand hills, scrub forests, upland mesic hardwood forests, wet-dry prairies, and wet land swamp forest. Accordingly, you might imagine too the wide assortment of bird, reptile, and mammalian species that live in those diverse habitats, from hummingbird to those wonderful black bears.
Among the exhibitors at the FANN trade show was Danny and Debbie Perkins from LaBelle, who have made the saw palmetto an industry of its own. Danny was the first to successfully harvest mature palmetto clumps from scrub forest and has grown many thousands of the hardy palm from seed. In addition to palmetto, the Perkins have cultivated and grown on the needle palm, or porcupine palm, “Rhapidophyllum Hystrix”, the seed harvested in Leon County. It is one of the planet’s most cold tolerant palms, and germination rate is about one percent. Also present were Roger Triplett and Mark Holgren from Bradenton’s Green Seasons Nursery, who were in on the native plant education and promotion from the beginning. Green Seasons has been for several years the state’s most abundant supplier of sea oats. Mark made many a trip up and down the state hauling whatever ornamentals, hibiscus and gardenia, bougainvillea and crotons, so he could to help to pay for their investment in natives while Roger ran the nursery. Robert Davenport and his grandson Spencer were in attendance showcasing their specimen Walter’s Viburnum and Simpson’s Stopper in 15 gallon containers. Six feet tall, four feet across, sharp. Livening things up at the show was Robert Olinger of Forestry Resources, one of the largest and perhaps the most resourceful and creative of those “allied May 2015
The FANN trade show was a success of course, simply because it continues to happen. It is totally appropriate given concerns about water usage and runoff that commercial buildings and residential communities be encouraged to use more native plant types. It is not that natives don’t need water and appreciate mild doses of fertilizer - certainly they do and respond in good proportion to both, but they do not need nearly so much as ornamentals and exotics introduced from other geographies. Natives work because they were selected by nature over the millennium to thrive in the Florida environment. They belong here. In addition to the practicality of using natives, the trees, palms, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers are resplendent; bald cypress flushing green in the spring, beach sunflower covering a restless dune along the Gulf of Mexico, Jamaica caper and Lignum Vitae in purple and blue flower, and the stately Quercus Virginiana, the live oak, upon which the country has been built. From the governor’s mansion in Tallahassee to the Hemingway House in Key West, the most appropriate, dependable, and showy landscape of all could be that one composed of Florida natives.
Feed, Animal Health, Tack, Fencing Supplies, Archery, Guns & Ammo, Hardware and more... Tel: 863.675.4240 Fax: 863.675.4278 Brad Murray Manager
281 South Bridge Street Labelle, FL 33935
LabelleRanchSupply.com
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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The Florida State Horticultural Society... serving the needs of Florida horticulturists since 1888
Through its annual meeting, FSHS provides information on many topics of horticultural interest in the following FSHS Sections:
CITRUS
• development and characteristics of rootstocks • cultivar improvement • insect, disease and weed control • fertilization, irrigation, cultivation • cold protection
Who are we?
One of the oldest horticultural societies in the United States. Established in 1888. Growers, horticultural professionals, students, agricultural industry, Master Gardeners, and gardening enthusiasts.
What do we do?
• Keep you abreast of important advances in Florida horticulture. • Provide opportunities to publish either refereed or non-refereed papers. • Provide a wide variety of presentations at the annual meeting. • Publish the annual Proceedings of the Florida State Horticultural Society (400 + pages).
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VEGETABLE
• cultivar characteristics, selection, and improvement • cultural practices • harvesting methods • insect, disease and weed control
KROME MEMORIAL INSTITUTE
• cultural practices of tropical, subtropical and temperate fruit crops • cultivar Improvement, new crops and alternative markets • insect, disease and weed control
ORNAMENTAL, GARDEN & LANDSCAPE • information on new plants • landscape design / management • cultural practices and pest control • conditions for optimal production
HANDLING AND PROCESSING
• postharvest practices that affect market quality of whole, fresh-cut produce and processed fruits and vegetables • postharvest treatments, processing methods and nutritional quality • Food safety and biosecurity The Florida State Horticultural Society encourages all individuals who enjoy horticulture to become members. For a membership application, please contact us: The Florida State Horticultural Society UF/IFAS/CREC 700 Experiment Station Rd. Lake Alfred, FL 33850-2299 Phone: (863) 956-1151 FAX: (863) 956-4631 Visit our web site! http://www.fshs.org
May 2015
May 2015
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Charlotte County Ag Venture 2015 The Desoto-Charlotte Farm Bureau and Young Farmers and Ranchers Committee hosted Charlotte County’s Ag Venture at the Charlotte High School Ag Department on Earth Day, April 22. It was the perfect day to welcome about 400 students and teachers from East Elementary, Peace River Elementary and Sallie Jones Elementary schools for a day of learning about Florida Agriculture!
As the students departed the buses, Joel Beverly and his horse, Strawberry, greeted them as he talked about cowboys, the cattle industry and cracked his whip to get the day started. They then headed off on their track where a high school FFA member led them to various stations including Ag Literacy, Beef, Beekeeping, Citrus, Forestry, an FWC K9 demonstration, Poultry, Soils, Vegetables, Watermelon and a 4-H Coloring Station. Many of the stations were hands on and the students were able to plant vegetables, squeeze their own orange juice from Joshua Citrus oranges and taste juicy watermelon from Chastain Farms. They all left with a better understanding of Florida Agriculture and many students said they wished they could come back next year!
The day would not have been a success without the help of many sponsors and volunteers. The day’s sponsors included: The Mosaic Company, Everglades Seasoning, Farm Credit of Florida, Beef O’ Brady’s, Arcadia Stockyard, Heartland In the Field Magazine, Outlaw Horses and Front Porch Marketing.
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May 2015
Walk-ins Welcome! 7 am - 4:30 pm
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Peas in short supply, get them while they last!
SEEDWAY Vegetable Seeds ~ 3810 Drane Field Road, Unit 30 Lakeland, FL 33811 ~ www.seedway.com ~ 863-648-4242
Dakin “Dairy Day” Festival
Family fun event on Saturday, June 6 in honor of National Dairy Month (see page 80 for details) Custom Blended Foliar, Suspension & Solution Fertilizers
Nutritionals
Kevin Sanders 863-368-1926
Barney Cherry 863-441-1482
Charlie Norris 863-634-2041
Skip Fricke 863-441-3003
Dick Harvin 863-441-3008
Dwight Meeker 863-673-3013
www.andersonssouthernregion.com
May 2015
Heartland InTheField Magazine
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A
s the housing market has recovered, the growth in demand for ornamental trees, palms and shrubs has outpaced the growth in supply. This has led to rapid escalations in plant material prices, limited availability and smaller specifications.
Today, as we take stock of the current market conditions and look forward to the next 12 months, it appears that the plant material shortage will continue to be felt throughout 2015 and will be more severe in its impacts as we move through Spring and into the Summer. HOUSING STARTS The key driver of demand for plant material is new construction and in particular new housing starts. Florida housing starts have been recovering since 2010. In 2013 Florida housing starts were 124% higher than 2011. 2014 starts remained steady at 85K units, and the first quarter of 2015 indicates that more growth can be expected this year. Texas, likewise, has been experiencing strong housing growths since 2010. Housing starts in Texas have grown from 83,840 in 2010 to 130K in 2012, 147K in 2013 and 165K in 2014. Globally, the same pattern of housing recovery can be seen at the South Census Region level, which represents the majority of the market for Florida grown nursery trees, palms and shrubs.
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IMPACTS ON PRICING AND SPECIFICATIONS The plant material demand associated with these housing starts is driving nursery sales and leading to rapid escalations in plant
May 2015
material prices. The price of a 30 gallon Live Oak has increased from a low of $31 in 2011 to a current price of $107. Despite these major price increases, nursery supply is still unable to keep up with demand. Nurseries are selling out of inventory and releasing crops early to fulfill excess demand. This leads to smaller specifications as trees are sold before they are able to reach maturity. In the case of the 30 gallon Live Oak, trees were commonly sold at 2.75” - 3” caliper in 2011 due to the oversupply at the time - this was an inch over the industry standard of 2” caliper for a 30 gallon Live Oak. Today, due to the shortage, the same 30 gallon Live Oak is being sold at 1.5” 1.75” caliper. In other words, the market is paying 245% more for a tree that is 50% smaller in 2015 compared to 2011.
To better understand the full impact of the plant material shortage on prices, we need to compare the price of trees of equal caliper. To source a 3” caliper Live Oak in 2015, one must purchase a 65 gallon size container.6 The current price of a 65 gallon Live Oak is $222. Thus the price of 3” container live oak has increased from $31 in 2011 to $222 in 2015 which is over 600%. The price of 3” container live oak has increased from $31 in 2011 to $222 in 2015 which is over 600%
INDUSTRY IMPACTS Our industry is dealing with a historic shift in supply and demand. This shortage will likely persist for several more years as nursery stock cannot be produced at a faster rate than nature allows. Our prediction is that the shortage will become more severe over the next 12 months and last at least through the end of 2017.
Nurseries have been the first to respond to these market transformations as they have been the first to feel the impact of these changes in their businesses. Most nurseries have new stricter selling policies to better manage their inventory. These include limiting access to their inventory to select customers, cutting off smaller accounts, limiting credit availability, imposing minimum and maximum quantity limits on orders, and insisting that orders ship immediately, limiting customers’ ability to hold inventory for future projects. Our prediction is that the shortage will become more severe over the next 12 months and last at least through the end of 2017.
sourcing material can prompt the contractor to request approval of alternates which cost time and may in turn require that plans be re-submitted for permitting. Additionally, there are greater chances that material will fail mandatory inspections due to specification or quality causing further delays.
Project quality is also at risk. By definition, the shortage means there are fewer sources of quality plant material. Projects will be impacted as contractors and architects compromise either plant material quality, specifications or design intent in order to source plant material during the shortage. Furthermore, hard bid contractors facing severe price escalations will be under greater pressure to reduce quality in order to preserve margins. Projects will be impacted as contractors and architects compromise either plant material quality, specifications or design intent in order to source plant material during the shortage.
In order to mitigate these impacts to project schedule, budget and quality, it is recommended that project stakeholders increase planning and flexibility. The more flexibility the project stakeholders allow for plant variety and specifications, the more options will be available to achieve project goals. Early planning and procurement can also help mitigate risk. By defining plant material requirements early, selecting a contractor early, and working closely with nursery suppliers, project planners can mitigate some of the risk associated with the shortage. LOCAL GOVERNMENT IMPACTS The final test of the industry’s ability to respond to the shortage will be whether or not local government codes, ordinances and inspections will adapt. As plant material specification get smaller, it will be more and more difficult to meet all the minimum specification requirements of some local ordinances. Will local governments accept smaller specifications or will they insist on enforcing their ordinances without regard to changing market conditions? Ultimately it is in the best interest of the local government to promote quality plant material over size. Healthy plants will grow and ultimately reach the desired specifications. Low quality plants are more likely to fail in the landscape, and create persistent maintenance issues. Most importantly for local governments, poor quality plant material can be structurally unsound exposing people and property to risk.
Landscape contractors have, in turn, had to make changes to their bidding and procurement strategies, incorporating plant material escalations into their bids and qualifying proposals to protect them against availability and pricing risk. Savvy landscape contractors are seeking to procure plant material as early as possible and securing material before committing to a project.
It is better to insist on healthy, high quality plants than to insist on specifications. Given the state of plant supply, local governments will most likely need to choose one over the other. We recommend local governments focus on quality. This may be accomplished by providing training to inspectors on plant material grades and standards, as well as promoting other independent quality standards such as ACT (Association of Certified Container Grown Trees).
Landscape installation is typically at end of the construction schedule and one of the last items to be completed before a project can obtain a certificate of occupancy. The plant material shortage can affect the schedule in several ways. Generally, longer lead times for materials increase the risk of schedule delays. Difficulties
For more information on this topic please refer to past articles linked below. We welcome your comments and encourage you to share your experiences and outlook with us on this important topic. Please send your comments to timothee@cherrylake.com.
CONSTRUCTION PROJECT IMPACTS Plant material shortages pose serious threats to construction projects affecting budget, schedule and quality.
May 2015
We are entering uncharted territory for the nursery and landscape industry. It is our hope that we can contribute to creating a dialog with industry stakeholders, to educate the marketplace and help propose solutions to the new challenges before us.
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Blueberries have always provided anti-oxidants and nutrients to make a body strong. Now they provide plenty of fun too. Tens of thousands of berry believers poured in historic downtown Brooksville this weekend to celebrate the state’s power fruit, making it another record year for the official Florida Blueberry Festival. Executive Director Michael Heard said the event’s success is a double win for both the host community and the blueberry industry. “The growth of the Blueberry Festival the last four years has been astounding,” Heard said. “We started this thing to bring recognition to the harvest season and to Brooksville and Hernando County. And now we have attendance from all over Central Florida.”
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The success was hard to miss Saturday morning. Foot traffic was so strong, organizers scrambled to set up makeshift gates just to whittle down the long lines of folks waiting to get in. Once inside, visitors were treated to every blueberry concoction imaginable, from berry shakes to juice-infused jerky. Among the most popular offerings every year is the Island Grove wine tasting hut where guests can wet their pallet with both dry and sweet varieties. Then there’s the blueberry beer, blueberry cobbler by Alessi and blueberry pies by Mike’s Famous Pies in Tampa. But the crowd favorite continues to be blueberries in their purest form. Stands were set throughout the venue offering blueberries by the pint and flat. At a production rate of 25 million pounds of a year, you can see why the Florida Blueberry has become the rising
May 2015
star in Florida agricultural scene. “We outdid ourselves with blueberry products this year,” Heard said. “But we’re always looking for new ideas.”
Food wasn’t the only highlight of the weekend. Some of the state’s finest talent presented their works in a juried, highend art show and artisans from as far away as Colorado sold hand-crafted glass, metal and leather goods. Add to that the kiddy play area, zip-line, rock climbing wall and three stages of music and dance, the Florida Blueberry Festival has become a family entertainment blockbuster.
“The thing we’re really interested in is captivating our audience,” Heard said. “The vendors are only happy if the audience is engaged. “So the festival committee is working on ways to offer something fresh for visitors every year,” she added. “We want them to come back.” Long after the crowds have dispersed, benefits of the annual event continue to be reaped from the lively message that has saturated central Florida in recent months. Spots promoting the festival in Southern Living Magazine and AAA Magazine, along with billboards, radio and television ads put the spotlight squarely on Brooksville, Hernando County and, of course, the blueberry industry that continues to grow a solid fan base.
If the crowds were any indication, the message seemed effective. Foot traffic was so strong Saturday morning, organizers scrambled to set up make-shift gates just to whittle down the lines. “It’s all about marketing,” said Heard. “We’ve invested in our communities by investing in the market. People get introduced to Hernando County and its county seat of Brooksville as we transform this place into something magical overnight.” There is a lengthy list responsible for the transformation. The Florida Blueberry Growers Association serves as the primary sponsor of the event, along with the City of Brooksville, Hernando County and a plethora of corporate sponsors.
The local community has embraced the event as well, sending an army of volunteers to cover everything from parking lots to entertainment. Those charity groups who took on specific responsibility such as parking, also walked away with some meaningful cash to help them do what they do.
“Their support – the volunteers, the sponsors – is tremendous,” Heard said. “This truly is a community effort. For more information go to: www.floridablueberryfestival.org May 2015
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CANADIAN STORES PROMOTING
“Fresh From Florida” FRUITS, VEGGIES
F
lorida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam announced today a new promotional campaign to increase Florida agriculture’s presence in Canada. “Canada has long been a great trade partner with us, and we want to see that continue to expand,” Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam said. “We continue to see growth in international exports of ‘Fresh From Florida’ products, proving that there is nothing better than what we grow right here in Florida.”
Currently, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is working with 1,824 stores in three Canadian provinces to promote “Fresh From Florida” products. These promotions help support a variety of commodities and have built a strong export relationship with Canada, the state’s largest export partner. Tomatoes, sweet corn, grapefruit, strawberries, blueberries and orange juice have all been sampled in more than 200 Sobeys supermarkets this year featuring uniquely crafted “Fresh From Florida” recipes.
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International retail promotions with Canadian grocers also have been an ongoing priority, resulting in more than 26,900 retail store ads during the past year. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services worked with five Florida companies at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Trade Show in Montreal this month to foster the ongoing trade relations between Florida and Canada. Heartland InTheField Magazine
Recent successes with trade in Canada include:
• Canada received $917 million (22 percent) of Florida agricultural exports.
• Canada received $243 million (61 percent) of Florida’s fresh fruit exports and $232 million (77 percent) of Florida’s fresh vegetable exports. • There was an 18 percent increase in the value of oranges exported to Canada in 2014. • The value of peaches exported to Canada increased 192 percent.
Currently, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ “Fresh From Florida” program partners with more than 12,000 stores from 65 retail partners in 27 countries around the globe. Florida’s $4.2 billion in agricultural exports last year generated a total economic impact of more than $13 billion and supported more than 109,000 jobs. Florida agriculture has an overall economic impact of more than $120 billion and supports 2 million jobs.
May 2015
May 2015
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Island Grove AG PRODUCTS
Home of the largest blueberry nurseries in Florida along with an award winning winery and fresh berry production Article by Ron Lambert Photography by Sarah Aschliman and Wayne Smith, Foxtale Photography
As the spring of 2015 moves forward an increasingly common site in Florida are roadside signs that say “fresh” and “u-pick blueberries”. Yes, indeed, it’s blueberry season! This tasty and healthy fruit is making a real impact in our state’s agricultural palette. Many articles have been written about the benefits of including this berry in ones diet. They are not only tasty but research shows that they are also good for you. So I urge you to take advantage of this new fruit and enjoy some soon.
Actually, the blueberry has long been known all over the country and is still found growing wild in many areas in north Florida. These berries are generally small compared to the berries that are offered to the consumer in the local grocery
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and local produce stands. They are tasty and make a very fine pie or cobbler after one has gone through the effort to gather a few quarts and gotten home with them. In addition, some selected cultivars of these native plants have provided stock that has been valuable in the blueberry breeding program that has been ongoing for quite a few years to develop varieties that flourish in warmer climates. In addition to the need to develop plants that have a low chill requirement, fruit size and total yield are also critical factors in this selection process. Over the past few years, the University of Florida’s research program has been successful in introducing a number of new cultivars for a rapidly growing acreage across our state. May 2015
In the 1970’s and 80’s, quite a few small plots were planted in Highlands and Hardee counties. Over time most, if not all, of these plantings failed for various reasons which included a lack of marketing support and poor performing varieties. Many people also made a poor choice of location for their farm. But all this time observations were being made by people who continue to believe that the blueberry has an increasing potential as a valuable alternate crop in the south.
At this time the focus is on five primary varieties named Meadowlark, Farthing, and Indigo Crisp in the northern planting area. In Desoto County the most promising cultivars are Kestrel and Chickadee. This company is also active in producing peach trees for commercial plantings. These two fruits are being observed very closely by almost all of Florida’s citrus growers as a way to offset loss of production in citrus.
Through my acquaintance with Bert, the name of Ken Patterson became familiar to me even though I had never met him. I had never spoken to him until early in April when we spoke at length about the origins of Island Grove Ag Products and his vision for the continued expansion of this company. Ken is the managing partner of Island Grove. His interest in blueberries began back in 1985 and a nursery was established in the early 1990s to produce the finest, most promising new introductions of blueberries to meet a growing demand.
Island Grove Wines are the exclusive wine offered at the Florida Blueberry Festival which had an attendance of 60,000 people this year.
All this being said leads me to get to the point of my main topic that I intend to share in this article. Quite a few years ago, through my associates in the ornamental nursery business I met Bert Sheffield who left the ornamental nursery side of the industry to take on the challenge of a job offer at a new nursery near Hawthorne known as Island Grove Ag Products. Island Grove is the location from which Marjorie Kinnans Rawlings wrote her novels that are such a well-known part of Florida based literature. That of course is only a sideline tidbit.
Today Island Grove has 350 acres of berries equally divided between acreage in Hawthorne and Desoto County south of Arcadia. I understand that somewhere around 95% of production goes to fresh fruit sales. In addition, they currently have 100 varieties in trials in Desoto County. Some of these cultivars may well become new introductions that will have a place in strengthening Florida’s position as the primary producer of early fresh market berries.
May 2015
The question of what happens to the surplus of berries that aren’t suitable for fresh sales or are left over after harvesting is unprofitable may have occurred to some readers. That was an issue that faced Island Grove all along and five years ago a new partnership with Chase Marden resulted in the founding of the Island Grove Wine Company. Island Grove Wine Company introduced three wines initially, named Sorta Sweet, Kinda Dry, and one named Black and Blue which is a mix of blackberry and blueberry juices. Currently 300 outlets in Florida distribute Island Grove Wines. These include Publix, Winn Dixie, Wal-Mart and Whole Foods.
There are currently somewhere around 7,000 acres planted in blueberries in Florida and more are sure to be planted. The estimated harvest will be 22-23 million pounds in 2015 with a value approaching 100,000,000 dollars. The harvest which spans March, April, and May creates as many as 25,000 jobs. The main area showing the most interest in new acreage is the I-4 corridor reaching from Hillsborough County across the state. I hope that I have raised your awareness and maybe your interest in this emerging industry here in our Sunshine State. It is home to my family and I hope to see Florida remain strong in the future as an important agricultural producer. Thanks to companies such as Island Grove, I expect it will.
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UF HORTICULTURAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT
Stone Fruit Program BY ROBBI SUMNER
T
he University of Florida’s stone fruit breeding program began in 1952 with the goal of taking advantage of Florida’s climate, land, and early market window unique to our subtropical environment. Because many deciduous fruit trees require a certain number of chilling units (an amount of time below a certain temperature) to properly develop leaf and flower buds, temperate varieties cannot be successfully grown in many areas of our state. However, through the years, UF has collaborated with the University of Georgia and the USDA to release over 30 peach, nectarine, and plum varieties that can be successfully grown in our subtropical climate. Varieties are patented through the Florida Foundation Seed Producers and bud wood is made available to nurseries that purchase licenses.
Dr. Jose X. Chaparro was hired in 2004 and is the current stone fruit breeder and assistant professor at UF. The current goals for the stone fruit breeding program include rootstock evaluation for resistance to M. floridensis (a type of nematode) and development of high-quality, flavorful, firm flesh peaches for Central and Southern Florida.
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Stone Fruit Extension Specialist and Assistant Professor, Dr. Mercy A. Olmstead has worked with Dr. Chaparro since 2009 and is referred to by many in Florida’s peach industry as “the peach lady.”
Dr. Olmstead earned both her Bachelor of Science and her Ph. D. in Horticulture from Michigan State University, receiving her Master’s degree from Washington State University. Among her many areas of research are optimization of stone fruit production practices and nitrogen management of subtropical peaches. She has coauthored a number of published works, including Peach Orchard Establishment and Production Planning Budgets for Florida and A Diversification Strategy for Perennial Horticulture in Florida.
She teaches Principles of Horticultural Crop Production in addition to coordinating several extension programs. Those programs involve maintaining active relationships with county and regional extension agents regarding important production issues in stone fruit and wine grapes, disseminating information relative to stone fruit production in Florida via extension publications, and presenting relevant research and production information at field days and commodity meetings. This year’s Stone Fruit Field Day held March 18th in Citra covered such topics as orchard weed management, peach breeding programs, frost risk management decisions, and sprayer calibration. According to Dr. Olmstead, her “typical” day begins with reviewing her research projects - currently five different ones including one on grape nutrition, and extension projects as well. She is the extension and outreach lead on three different national grants that predominantly deal with breeding and genetics in grape and Rosaceae crops (e.g., peach, cherry, apple, strawberry, pear, blackberry, and rose). The tasks determine where she is during the
May 2015
day - whether it’s in the field at research plots in Citra (at the UF Research Farm), or in her office writing and putting together information for growers. She also has four graduate students that manage those projects and she spends a lot of time mentoring and helping them to complete activities. “Interspersed in all of these research/ extension/activities is my availability to growers. My smartphone connects me to the growers almost 24-7, and I don’t mind that! I want to be able to help them as much as I can,” she shares, adding “About 2-3 times per year, I try and get out around the state to visit growers and do onsite visits so that I can see and help diagnose any production issues that the growers have. Scheduling is important for me - as Gainesville is about 2+ hours from the major peach production areas in the state!”
When asked what she would consider to be the number one challenge facing peach growers in Florida Dr. Olmstead replied, “I would say the number one challenge facing growers right now is marketing. There are so many people just within the state of Florida that don’t know we have a growing peach industry. Sometimes the fruit is confused with the tail end of the Chilean market because we harvest peaches so early, and some stores do not have clear marketing material indicating that the peaches are ‘Fresh from Florida!’ Hopefully that will change soon - the Florida peach industry (growers, nursery personnel, marketers, suppliers, etc.) is conducting two public hearings on the possibility of initiating a state marketing order for peaches. One will be held on May 12th at 10:00AM at the Central Florida Peach Roundtable in Dade City, at the Pasco County Extension Office, and then the second will be on May 20th at 2:00PM at the Polk County Extension Office in Bartow.” For those interested in following Dr. Olmstead’s work or just learning more about Florida’s budding peach industry, you can visit the UF Stone Fruit Extension Website (http:// if-srv-hosweb-t.ad.ufl.edu/extension/stonefruit ) which she authors and maintains. There is also a wealth of information on her blog, aptly named “Everything is just Peachy in Florida” (https://ufstonefruit.wordpress.com/)
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FLORIDA’S AGRICULTURE EXPORTS In 2014 Florida agricultural exports $4,154,528,138, a 0.9% increase from 2013.
totaled
• Supports 109,000 jobs • Generates indirect taxes of $319 million • Total Economic Impacts of over $13 billion • Compound annual growth 2010 to 2014 7.2% per year
Florida ranked 8th in the US in agricultural exports
Florida products were exported to 159 countries and territories Top 5 destinations accounted for 58.3 % of exports, up from 55.9% in 2013 • Canada • Bahamas • Netherlands • Dominican Republic • Mexico
Florida ranked 3rd among live plant and tree exporting states in 2014, with an export value of $73.3 million. This total accounted for 17.5% of total US exports of $419.7 million. California has led the US in live plant and tree exports since 2004.
Canada is Florida’s leading export destination with 62.1% of the total value of live plant and tree exports in 2014. The five leading destinations account for 87% of all Florida live plant and tree exports. The number two destination, the Netherlands, is home to the world’s largest flower auction. Since reaching their peak in 2008, Florida’s exports of live plants and trees have fallen by over 37%. However Florida’s overall horticulture industry remains healthy with cash receipts of $1.6 billion in 2013.
All figures were provided by Fresh from Florida®
Fastest growing export commodities 2013 – 2014 • Bird eggs 214.8% • Purebred breeding cattle 72.3% Fastest growing markets over $50 million 2010 – 2014 • Colombia 37.8% per year • South Korea 33.4% • Mexico 30.1% • Hong Kong 19.4% • United Arab Emirates 19.0%
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May 2015
• Increase Fertilizer Efficiency • Improve Turf Density and Vigor • Reduce Re-treats
PathwayBioLogic.com 813.719.7284 May 2015
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Robbie Watrous HAS A PLAN BY BRADY VOGT
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obbie Watrous has an authentic connection to agriculture. His grandfather Winston Watrous improved and patented and promoted the first rotary lawnmowers in the country. He was known as the “Henry Ford” of that industry. The acquisition of his small company by TORO was called by one TORO president and CEO as the finest investment the company had ever made. Robbie’s father Ted, a graduate of UF in landscape architecture bought forty acres of gladiolus fields from Fred Weismeyer in 1978 after his research revealed that Iona was perhaps the most frost free spot in the United States and perfect for growing coconut palms. Ted operated a landscape design and install business that specialized in barrier island and coastal projects. Over a period of years he imported thousands of certified coconuts (as seed) from Jamaica, grew them on, and planted them on commercial and residential jobs throughout Lee and Collier counties.
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Robbie Watrous is a personable and dedicated young man. He intends to do something different with the seven acres remaining of the original Watrous Plantation. The land includes a one acre pond fed by a flowing spring. It is a layover for otters that move through the neighborhood, and a home for turtles and pan fish. The rest of the space is taken with coconut palms. Robbie estimated there are more than 400 palms greater than 20 feet tall and more than 400 palms that are juveniles. Eight hundred coconut producing trees on about five acres of gray sand, with roads and barn and house excluded. In the mix, are old oaks and buttonwood and sea grape, and maybe the largest stand of raphis palm in the area.
May 2015
The intention, or plan, for this young fellow is to harvest the fruit, or seed, or coconut, at various stages in its development as it clings to the palm or drops to the ground. He expects that at any time there are about 800 nuts on the ground and another 800 ripening. Coconuts reach a maximum period of fruit production at about twelve years, and will produce at a good rate for about another 50 years before beginning a slow decline. Robbie expects his foremost option to be harvesting green coconuts which are about 95 per cent liquid, for the coconut water. He said that presently the largest consumers of the sweet water are the people of Brazil, who drink it almost exclusively, while the largest producer of coconut water is the country called the Philippine Islands. The green, un-ripened nut is in a state that is the least subject to regulation, however once cut from the cluster, must be refrigerated within 24 hours. The second selection for making use of the bounty of the palm is to extract oil from the meat, which calls for processing the nut at a later stage, and will require some mechanization. His third option is the gathering of nectar from the flowering or inflorescence of the palm. It is not a job for the timid. The flowering takes place high amongst the mature fronds. Bees gather. The tips of the flowering stems are nipped and the flower spike bent downward. A bag is attached and for several days, the sap will drip into the bags at a very slow rate, much like waiting for syrup or turpentine. The nectar would at that point be crystallized and converted to a granular form. Lastly, as a by-product of the older nuts from which the sweet meat has been extracted, Robbie intends to market the fiber or husk, which is done by a small machine along the lines of a wood chipper, the end product useful as a hydroponic medium for growing everything from orchids to okra.
As an aside, but of great importance to Robbie Watrous, is that his farm becomes certified as one hundred per cent organic. That approval and documentation comes from the USDA or an accredited certifying agency. It means that over a period of several years prior to inspection, that no chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides have been used on the property. He presently gathers about two hundred pounds of used coffee grounds every week from a coffee shop and makes a monthly trip east of town for rabbit manure, or pellets as they are often called. The coffee grounds are rich in nitrogen and magnesium, a trace element, a mineral, found in coconut water and meat, while the rabbit manure has a composition of about 2.5 nitrogen, 2.5 potassium, and 2.5 phosphoric acid. Cow manure, marketed as the well known BLACK COW, is less than one per cent active ingredient in each of the primary minerals. In addition, he composts regularly with debris and the ever falling palm fronds that fall to the ground. His father was one of the first commercial coconut growers to make use of the old fronds. Rather than picking them up for a burn or a trash pile, Ted used them to cover the soil, cooling down the hot sand and helping it to retain moisture. Robbie said he guesses there are always nearly a thousand fronds on the
May 2015
ground to be picked up and laid across rows of palms where they will do the most good Also in keeping with his organic goal and as good farming practice, he is cultivating ground covers that will attach or fix available nitrogen in the soil, including the perennial peanut plant. The dry season however is no friend to any farmer. While the palm itself may not show any apparent signs of water related stress, the palms will shed themselves of the nuts, a pre-mature drop that leaves on the ground a nearly worthless nut, suitable perhaps only for it husk and diminished at that, because of the small size.
On the table though is possibly his best strategy for raising awareness of the value of coconuts as water, food, sugar and medium, and of the aesthetic value of an organic plantation. In the small cottage that overlooks the pond, Robbie, who is a skilled carpenter, intends to renovate the interior to accommodate beds and a loft where singles and couples of an environmental bent might stay the night. It is a variation on what is called eco-tourism. He expects to invite guests to sit on the porch and watch the otters play, while they rest from working a few hours on the farm. It makes a lot of sense. If he gets guests that pay with hard cash for the near tropical experience, he can fund the operation to make the coconut palms pay. Not hippies exactly, but certainly free spirited, interesting people, who can participate hands on in the cultivation of a new source of water, oil, and sugar.
There are two schools of thought about the arrival of coconuts to the shores of Florida, however more anthropologists believe the palm originated in the Pacific rather than the Caribbean and southern Atlantic. In Florida, the adoption and adaptation of the coconut palm is recorded in history and responsible for the naming of Palm Beach. In January of 1878, one hundred years before Ted Watrous planted his first Jamaican coconuts, there was a shipwreck off the east coast near Lake Worth. The Spanish ship Providencia foundered in a storm. It was on its way from Havana to Barcelona with a cargo full of coconuts that became salvage and were gathered by the hundreds and planted in the white sand by Florida pioneers. Robbie’s purposes are as pure as fine sugar. He has been on missionary trips to Uganda and throughout Central and South America. He has been a visitor to Jamaica, where the coconuts that feed the islands grow. He is interested in what Third World peoples do as regards farming and food production without the strategies and mechanizations available to more developed societies. He is single minded in his direction that he accomplish without harsh chemicals what his contemporaries in poorer countries have been able to do without as well.
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68TH ANNUAL STATE 4-H DAIRY SHOW Sixty-eight 4-Hers from around Florida exhibited 168 heifers and milk cows at the State 4-H Dairy Show held April 9th – 12th at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Valrico. Participants also had the opportunity to compete in Dairy Judging and Quiz Bowl contests to test their knowledge of the industry. Winners in the various competitions included: Quiz Bowl: Junior Team – Hillsborough/Sumter; Senior Team – Okeechobee/Manatee Record Book: Junior Austin Holcomb; Intermediate Makalyn Jones; Senior Aaron Dunn Showmanship: Junior Logan Shoop; Intermediate Karen Kotlarczyk; Senior Cady McGehee Ayshire Grand Champion: Cady McGehee; Reserve Austin Holcomb Brown Swiss Grand Champion: Gracie Lee; Reserve John McGehee Guernsey Grand Champion: Austin Holcomb; Reserve Rebecca Holcomb Holstein Grand Champion: Gracie Lee; Reserve Luke Larson Jersey Grand Champion: Cady McGehee; Reserve Kyleigh Glenn Bred By Exhibitor Ayrshire: Junior Cady McGehee; Senior Makenzie Greaves Bred By Exhibitor Brown Swiss: Junior Taylor Jordan; Senior Makenzie Greaves Bred By Exhibitor Guernsey: Junior Jacon McGehee;
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Senior Rebecca Holcomb Bred By Exhibitor Holstein: Junior Nathan Sundberg; Senior Nicolas Hammer Bred By Exhibitor Jersey: Junior Kyleigh Glenn Dairy Judging: Junior Libby Sutton; Intermediate Jozef Heijkopp; Senior Jacob McGehee Dairy Judging Reasons: Junior Austin Holcomb; Intermediate Jozef Heijkopp; Senior Avery Kotlarczyk Judging Team: Junior Okeechobee/Hillsborough; Intermediate Manatee/Hillsborough/Sumter; Senior Okeechobee Judging Team Reasons: Junior Sumter/Hillsborough; Intermediate Hillsborough/Suwanee; Senior Manatee May 2015
On Sunday, Travis Larson of Okeechobee won the coveted Challenger’s Class trophy. That one class gives adults the chance to demonstrate their showmanship skills, and is held in honor of Mr. Carrol “Bud” Ward who served as director at the Central Florida Fair and who was a great supporter of the 4-H Dairy Youth Program. The list of sponsors for the show is too long to list here, but without those individuals and companies, the State 4-H Dairy Show would not be possible. Please know that you are appreciated by youth and parents alike!
May 2015
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LIVESTOCK LEADERS OF THE FUTURE BY AUDRA CLEMONS
The International Livestock Congress USA, managed through a partnership of the International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo™, is a unique global event that brings together leaders from the livestock and meat industry to discuss issues of international importance that affect the future of animal agriculture.
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Part of this unique global event is the students – the future leaders in the agriculture industry - who have been sponsored and selected to be there. The International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation awards travel fellowships to senior level undergraduate students and graduate students attending accredited colleges or universities, to enhance educational experiences and strengthen the leaders of tomorrow’s livestock and meat industry. May 2015
Scholastic achievement, leadership experiences and professional references are all part of the pre-requisite requirements to be selected for this elite student fellowship.
Ft. Pierce’s Alec Wynne was among the selected students to participate in this year’s event on March 4-6, 2015, in Houston, Texas.
Alec Wynne is an undergraduate student at the University of Florida, and was one of only twelve students selected worldwide to participate in the 2015 International Livestock Congress. “We’re here primarily to learn and observe what goes on at the ILC. For me, being a student in the college of Ag at the University of Florida, we all know that by 2015 we’re going to have to answer the call for increased production in animal agriculture, and all agriculture, as population is expected to increase from about 7 billion to 9.6 billion in 2050,” said Wynne when asked about his interest and his role in attendance at the conference.
Through its programs and events, the International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation has attracted world leaders in the beef industry and has developed one of the few forums that allows for the free flow of information between organizations and governments representing the entire supply chain. “You never fully realize how connected the world is, until you sit in this conference and listen to people from China, Brazil, Mexico, Africa - and all over the world. This has really been an eye-opener for me,” said Wynne.
a middle class that’s advancing, and they have a little bit of disposable income so they start putting that on meat in particular.”
Barriers for U.S. trade continue to be removed. The USDA reported that in the Fiscal Year of 2014, American farmers and ranchers exported a record $152.5 billion of food and agricultural goods to consumers worldwide, an $11.6 billion increase over Fiscal Year of 2013 figures. “Ranching in Florida sometimes feels far away from the rest of the U.S. industry as far as cattle production – we’re a little isolated – but coming to this conference has really opened my eyes to how big of a future role Florida could play internationally,” said Wynne of the new ideas he’s had while in Houston, Texas at the conference. “I think it’s interesting that the state of Florida is beginning to get a little bit of a feeding industry with the Seminoles, Quincy and Suwannee Farms. If we could figure out a good economical way to feed cattle here, we wouldn’t have to ship them out west, and that would give the Florida industry even more options,” said Wynne when asked of thoughtful possibilities for the future of the Florida livestock industry.
For more information on The International Livestock Congress, or for information on how to submit or sponsor an Ag student to participate in the International Stockmen’s Educational Foundation, please visit: www.theisef.com.
The U.S. beef production system is the model of efficiency and, in turn, sustainability. As with any production system, the efficiency of production relies on the relationship between the cost and return. Successful U.S. livestock producers have been practicing this and achieving more-and-more each year. “The ILC has helped me further understand the role the U.S. plays internationally. We are so tied to all these developing countries; the demand is rising as developing countries have
May 2015
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Danny Walpole, Manager
May 2015
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elcome to the 64th Annual Florida Beef Cattle Short Course for the cattle industry! The Beef Cattle Short Course is considered one of the premier beef cattle educational events in the Southeast and Gulf Coast regions with significance nationally and globally. The course addresses issues for beef cattle enterprises at an elevated level of management skill with practical applications for every beef cattle producer, in Florida and beyond. The course focuses on unique challenges facing our beef industry, beef production issues, urban growth, global competition, changing consumer demands, and economic and environmental sustainability. Every year, this short course leads the industry in covering subject areas and topics prior to those issues becoming management concerns. Participants get to hear contrasting, alternative, and complimentary ideas about the beef cattle enterprise. Short of paying a professional consultant, there is no better source of information for beef cattle producers than the Florida Beef Cattle Short Course.
The Beef Cattle Short Course brings together cattlemen, University of Florida and county extension faculty and staff to hear nationally recognized speakers, from UF, other academia institutions, and industry. We partner with our valuable Allied Industry partners to bring you a viable and diverse Tradeshow, sharing industry and product specific information. Annually, approximately 30 trade representatives have booths available to demonstrate products and distribute information. In addition, each year, part of a day is spent at one of the Department of Animal Sciences research and teaching units for hands – on demonstrations.
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We invite you to attend the Florida Beef Short Course and come away with new and innovative knowledge about the beef cattle industry!
Heartland InTheField Magazine
Additional Information Registration Information: Jasmine Garcia University of Florida/IFAS Office of Conferences & Institutes PO Box 110750 Gainesville, FL 32611-0750 Phone: 352-392-5930 Fax: 352-392-4044 Email: j.garcia@ufl.edu All other course information: Rebecca Matta Program Assistant Department of Animal Sciences Bldg. 459, Rm 231A PO Box 110910 Gainesville, Florida 32611-0910 Phone: 352-392-1916 Fax: 352-392-9059 Email: rmatta@ufl.edu
May 2015
Find Us on
FCA Sweetheart - Katey McClenny and her 2014 court and fellow contestants. ---photo by Ron O’Connor
Florida Cattlemen’s Association
Sweetheart
The 2015 Florida Cattlemen’s Convention and Allied Trade Show will be held June 16, 17, & 18 at the Omni Champions Gate Resort. Every year since 1965 the FCA has chosen a Sweetheart to represent the cattle industry. This year we are celebrating the 50 year anniversary of our contest. We are inviting all former FCA Sweethearts to attend the luncheon on Wednesday, June 17th. If you have not been contacted and would like to attend the 50th celebration please contact Kim Strickland at 239-851-3896. For convention information call the FCA office at 407-846-8025.
May 2015
Heartland Growers Supply Come in and look at our Cajun Fryers, Yeti Coolers & Tumblers and the Big Green Egg.
541 S 6th Ave, Wauchula, FL 33873
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2015 Florida Cattlemen’s Convention & Allied Trade Show “Circling the Herd” To Omni’s Champions Gate Tuesday, June 16, Wednesday, June 17 & Thursday June 18, 2015
1500 Masters Blvd Champions Gate, FL 33896
Located just off I-4 east of Hwy 27 in South West Edge of Osceola County easy access from all directions - 429 toll road / Hwy 27/ Interstate-4/Florida Turnpike FCA Base lodging room rate is $155/night (rate available 3 days pre and post event) wide variety of room upgrades available • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
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DISCOUNTED RATE OF $75/ROUND PAR 3 LIGHTED NIGHT COURSE FITNESS CENTER BEACH VOLLEYBALL, KID’S CLUB (CAMP OMNI) ARCADE TENNIS COURTS BASKETBALL COURT PLAYGROUND POOLSIDE GAMES AND RECREATION COMPLIMENTARY DISNEY TRANSPORTATION EXCLUSIVE VENUE FCA HAS RUN OF THE PLACE. FAMILY ATMOSPHERE
See Video of facility at WWW.OmniHotels.com The Omni is a Disney “Good Neighbor” http://disneydestinationsales.com/econfirmations/GNH.html PEOPLE, FRIENDS, FAMILY, YOUTH, INDUSTRY, LEADERS, NEIGHBORS, FAITH, TRADITIONS, CULTUR E, BELIEF SYSTEM, GENERATIONS, WAY OF LIFE, TRUST and LOVE for GOD and ONE ANOTHER are what make our annual convention a success. Please reserve your rooms now.
1-800-THE OMNI
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May 2015
MONDAY, JUNE 15, 2015 8a.m-10:00p.m Trade Show Exhibitor Move In 1:00 p.m. Sweetheart Contestant Meeting 6p.m.-8p.m YCC Tour Alumni Reception/FCLA Graduation TUESDAY, JUNE 16, 2015 8:00 a.m.-4:00p.m. Registration 8:00-12 p.m. Trade Show Exhibitors Move In 8:30-12:30 p.m. FCA Executive Committee Meeting & Luncheon 9:00 a.m. FCW Executive Committee Meeting & Luncheon 10:00-Noon Florida Grazing Lands Coalition Meeting 11:00 a.m. Beef Ambassador Interviews, Presentations and Lunch 11:00-Noon JFCA Photography Entries Due 1:00 p.m. Sweetheart Power Point Presentations 1:00 p.m. SILENT AUCTION OPENS 1:00 p.m. Opening General Session/ Committee Meetings (OPEN TO ALL FCA, FCW, & JFCA MEMBERS) Call to Order: Henry Kempfer, President, Deer Park; Invocation/Pledge Allegiance: Erik Jacobsen, PresidentElect, St. Cloud, Speakers - TBD 1:30 p.m. JFCA General Membership Meeting 2:00 p.m. FCW Welcoming Reception 2:00 p.m. Allied Meeting (Mandatory - All Trade Show Exhibitors) 2:30 -5 p.m. Committee Meetings: Agricultural Research & Education Animal Health & Inspection Environmental, Private Lands Mgmt. Marketing, Grading & Food Policy Public Relations FCCA (501c3) / Membership Committee Mtg. Historical Board 3:00 p.m. JFCA's Public Speaking Contest 3:00 p.m. Seedstock Committee 4:00 p.m. Allied Members' Trade Show Opening Reception Courtesy of Allied Trade Show Exhibitors Host: Chuck Cruse, Allied Chairman 4:00-8:00 p.m. Trade Show Opens - Cash Bars in Show Area TBA Corn Hole Tournament - After Trade Show 7:00-11:00 p.m. Family Traditions Dance 7:30 p.m. JFCA Quiz Bowl 8:30 p.m. Merck Million Golf Tournament (Par 3 - 9 Hole) WEDNESDAY, JUNE 17, 2015 7:00 a.m. FCA Board of Directors' Meeting/Continental Breakfast Call to Order: Henry Kempfer, President, Deer Park; Invocation/Pledge Allegiance: Erik Jacobsen, PresidentElect, St. Cloud; FCW Report: Reyna Hallworth President, Florida CattleWomen, Inc., Dade City; Tallahassee Report: Sam Ard, Dir. Of Gov. Affairs, Tallahassee; Florida Beef Council Report, Cliff Coddington; NCBA President Report; ANCW President Report; FCA Sweetheart Report, Katey McClenny, Washington County; Introduction of Sweethearts Contestants; Researcher of the Year, TBA 7:00 a.m. JFCA Beef Quiz Bowl Finals 8:00 a.m. - 4:00pm Registration 8:00am-5pm Silent Auction 9:00-11:30 a.m. FCW Board of Directors/ General Membership Meeting 10:00 a.m. JFCA Team Marketing Contest 11:00 a.m. General Membership Meeting Call to Order: Henry Kempfer, President, Deer Park; Election of FCA Officers for 2014-2015 12:00 noon Youth Appreciation Luncheon/Led by JFCA Officers Invocation Florida Cattleman & Livestock Journal Premier Awards Florida State Fair Awards JFCA Awards JFCA Point Series Awards
Introduction of Sweethearts: Sweetheart Chairman: Kim Strickland Introduction of Past FCA Sweethearts “50th Celebration of the FCA Sweetheart Contest” 1:00-4:30p.m. Trade Show Open 2:00 p.m. FCA Sweetheart and Past Sweethearts Meet & Greet 5:00 p.m. Cattlemen’s Reception 6:00 p.m. Cattlemen's Supper 7:00 p.m. Presentation of Sweethearts: Kim Strickland 7:30 p.m. Sweetheart Coronation-Adam Putnam Commissioner of Agriculture 7:45 p.m. Honorary Directors / CowMan / CowWoman; Presentations: FCA President Henry Kempfer 8:00 p.m. Bull Auction Tommy Barnes, Auctioneer 8:00 p.m. Junior Dance 9:00 p.m. Dance THURSDAY, JUNE 18, 2015 7:00 a.m. FCA Past Presidents/Executive Committee Breakfast 8:00 a.m. FCW Membership Breakfast 8:00-12:00pm Registration (Registration Closes at Noon) 8:00-10 a.m. Silent Auction (Bids Close 10am) 10:30-11 a.m. Silent Auction Item Pick-up 11:30am FCW Officers, Past Presidents & Chairmen Luncheon 11:45 a.m. Golf Tournament (18 Hole) 1:00 p.m. Volleyball Tournament 6:00 p.m. President's Reception 7:00 p.m. Banquet (Dress: Evening Attire) Special Drawings & Awards; Presentation of Outstanding CattleWoman; President’s and PresidentElect's Remarks; Guest Speaker - TBA 8:00 p.m. Junior Dance 9:00 p.m. Dance Not all sponsors and events were available at press time. Schedule and meeting times subject to change
DON’T FORGET YOUR IT EMS TO DONATE FOR THE SILENT AUCTION All items welcome! Be creative we have had everything from flip-flops, chemicals, artwork, hunting/vacation trips, jewelry and many other various items!!! In return for a donation, we advertise your business and booth space with that donation and publicly thank you in our FCA magazine Convention recap. Feel free to bring business cards, brochures, etc., to put on the table with your auction item.
Support the Florida Cattlemen’s Foundation and donate an item today!!! CONTACT EMILY HOBBY 352-427-4247
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Heartland InTheField Magazine
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ST. LUCIE COUNTY CATTLEMEN AND CATTLEWOMEN HOLD ANNUAL ADAMS RANCH RODEO ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY GREGG
If it’s the first weekend in April, then look for the Annual Adams Ranch Rodeo at the Alto “Bud” Adams Arena at the St. Lucie County Fairgrounds at the intersection of State Road 70 East and Midway Road in Fort Pierce.
And this year, not only was it the day before Easter, but the ranch rodeo actually fell on Mr. Adams’ 89th birthday – hope it was a happy one for you, Sir, and many more to come!! This event is traditionally the largest one of the qualifiers for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association ranch rodeo finals, and this year saw a total of 26 teams competing, which left 13 in each of the two performances. The events were the rowdy ranch bronc riding, team sorting, stray gathering (which is similar to double muggin’, but has two pairs on each team roping and tying simultaneously in the arena, with the help of the fifth team member wherever needed), trailer loading, and ending with the wild cow decorating.
The St. Lucie CattleWomen take an active part in this ranch rodeo, from helping the teams sign in, to helping with the timing and keeping the points, to selling Adams Ranch Rodeo tee-shirts, to cooking and working in the concessions (where the swamp cabbage was scrumptious!). Cheyenne Noll and Teala Bond, two of their members, were the lucky ladies who
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carried Old Glory and the State of Florida flag into the arena at the beginning of each performance.
The broncs were provided by Bushrod Duncan, Keith Lewis and Logan Perry, the latter two who also performed pickup man duties. There was only one score in the 70’s in the afternoon, and I have to admit that Blaine “Big B” Matthews of the M-2 Cattle team redeemed himself from Labelle when he received a score of 71. The evening performance saw half of the riders in the 70’s, with Cole Fulford of the Fulford Cattle team being scored 78. And considering that he was spurring while at the same time losing his seat, then regaining it, several times, he deserved it! Shane Perkins of May 2015
the Arrow G/Bar Diamond team was knocked out cold when he hit the ground with his shoulder in the dirt – I heard it had something to do with his rotator cuff, so here’s hoping you’re alright, Shane.
The secretaries had quite a lot of figuring to do, so they worked while we were entertained by the Junior Sorting event. It is unbelievable to watch kids as young as 5-and6 years of age sort cattle from a herd! And youth rodeo competitor Cross Fulford of Moore Haven was the buckle winner, over 20-some competitors. I think he may have even beat the time of the Fulford Cattle team when they sorted! When all of the tallying was completed, it was Push Hard Cattle who took the first place buckles and the $5,000 prize money, consisting of Billy Adams, Marshall Godsey, father and son Carson and Cody Storey, and Christi Pryor. Coming in second place was the J-3 Cattle team of Buck Lee, cousins Preston and Tommy Stokes, and Sowbelly and Whitney Savoie, and they won saddle pads and $3,500 in prize money. The third place halters and $2,000 prize money went to the John Williams Ranch, of my buddy J. Matt Davis, Richard Davis, Ty Edwards, Mack Allen Faircloth, and Brandy Tyson.
The team sorting saw 9 straight no-times in the afternoon, then Morgan Johnson of the Sand Scrub Ranch team (the female on the team!) was the first to complete the event, and what a smile she had on her face as she exited the arena! Her team is sponsored by her parents, but being the local girl, she had to do well! Billy Adams and the Push Hard Cattle team won this event in 50.31 seconds, but right on their tail was Murphy Cattle, under the sorting expertise of Doug Bronson, in a time of 51.38 seconds. But my vote goes for Billy’s brother, Jimmy Adams, who was dressed in those fluorescent lime green shirts of the Russakis Ranch, riding a gorgeous sorrel-and-white paint horse!
Congratulations to all of the winners, and see you next April!
The stray gathering was a bust – 26 teams and not one time. Time to go back to the double muggin’, Mr. Billy! (But we did get to see Dalton Boney fall off of his horse!)
The trailer loading event was up next. This was won by the J-3 Cattle team in 31.10 seconds, but Push Hard Cattle came in with 34.69 seconds, then Trinity Ranch/Syfrett Feed in 35.47 seconds, then the Florida’s Best team in 39.09 seconds, and the Flying B Ranch in 39.60 seconds. There were seven more times in the 40-second range, and four teams in the 50-second range. The final event was the wild cow decorating. Something woke up the J-3 Cattle team toward the end of the rodeo, as they also won this event (which they are good at!) in 30.63 seconds. They might have an advantage as Dusty “Sowbelly” Savoie usually does the roping, and his wife Whitney usually does the “decorating”, so maybe they practice at home! Push Hard Cattle had a time of 42.47 seconds, Switch Ranches/ Zoetis with 43.19 seconds, M-2 Cattle with 46.19 seconds, and M&D Overstreet Ranch in 47.78 seconds.
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LEE COUNTY HOSTS PRCA RODEO ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY GREGG
The Lee County Posse Arena saw the return of the annual North Fort Myers ProRodeo, this year being the third, on the evenings of March 20 and 21. With the extremely warm (or should I say, HOT) weather we’ve been experiencing this spring, it turned out to be a good idea to hold both performances at night.
This Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association event is hosted by Casey and Margo Crowther of Crowther Racing Horses, with the stock being provided by Klein Bros. Pro Rodeo. The total payout was $15,806, but the cowboys hit the State of Florida for a double chance of winning, with the Lake City Rodeo on Friday, Saturday and Sunday of that same weekend. In fact, Heartland cowboy Corey Fussell and his Mom, WPRA barrel racer Tamme Fussell, trailered their horses from Arcadia to Lake City on Friday night, then back home, then down to North Fort Myers on Saturday night being joined by Dad Jimmy Fussell – ah, the life of a rodeo cowboy/cowgirl!
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The event began with a parade of flags – pretty girls riding pretty horses all decorated in red, white and blue. They were joined by Miss Rodeo Florida 2015, Sheila Shirah. Friday night also saw Miss Rodeo Florida Princess there, Addison Roberts, but then she was off to her youth rodeo.
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Jim Burnette of Lorida took the win in the saddle bronc riding event with a score of 76, on the Klein Bros. horse named My Gal. This was a great score for him, as that was the very same score that gave him fourth place at Lake City. James Greeson of Okeechobee tied for the win at Lake City with a great score of 80, on 4L and Diamond S Rodeo’s horse named Sidvicious. Burnette has been a repeat Southeastern Circuit Champ, and is having a great year (having also taken the win at Wauchula back in January). My buddy LeRoy Eash of Fortine, Montana, took third place in Lake City, with a score of 77, but failed to place in the money at North Fort Myers, when he got his bell rung being thrown from the blonde bronc he drew! The list of steer wrestlers has been shortened due to injuries – John Manson of North Fort Myers recently had shoulder surgery, and Josh Moore of Parrish had knee surgery, Bud Hallman got injured in Okeechobee the prior weekend, and Bob Rohrer got dragged for quite a distance at Arcadia (also the prior weekend). Hardy Dymmek of Kissimmee took the win with a time of 11.9 seconds – Kamry, are you taking notes from your brother?!!!
three barrels in the traditional cloverleaf pattern. The hitch is that he covers each runner’s head with a BARREL, and the result has the crowd in stitches!
The team roping was won in 6.5 seconds by Travis Dorman and repeat Southeastern Circuit Champ Spunk Sasser (who also took home the title of All-Around Cowboy). Some locals tied for fourth place – Mike Ashton of Lorida and Buddy Davis of Okeechobee, and Dalton Prevatt of Alva and Blake Vickers of Lorida, each team coming in at 7.4 seconds. Even though Big Town Billie and Ivan Bruised Head completed the event, they received a no-time due to an illegal head catch.
Tie-down roping saw Reno Gonzalez of Okeechobee take second place in 11.2 seconds, for a prize of $536. Trae Adams III of Ona had a nice run, landing in fourth place with a time of 12.0 seconds. Corey Fussell failed to rope his calf at North Fort Myers – but not so in Lake City, where he placed sixth with a time of 9.9 seconds. The barrelman for this event was Rockin’ Robbie Hodges. He is one of the roudiest rodeo entertainers that I have ever worked with, and his “barrel racing” routine is hysterically funny – he gets four young men in the arena, and has them run around
May 2015
The Saturday performance saw local barrel racers Tamme Fussell (17.19 seconds), Margo Crowther (17.26 seconds), and Bobbie Jo Haberlandt (17.52 seconds). Junior barrel racers were Rachel Dunleavy of Punta Gorda, and Faith Jones, Josie Atkins, Kylee Porter and Summer Miller, all of Fort Myers. Summer was the only racer to leave all three barrels standing, in a time of 17.27 seconds.
There were no qualified rides in the bullriding event, despite the efforts of locals Kelton “KDawg” Smedley of Brighton, and Okeechobee residents Andrew Holmes, Clay McIntyre, Ricky Ringer and Ernie Courson – remember Cowboys, you don’t get paid to get bucked off! And thanks to bullfighters Jimmy Lee and Matt Baldwin, and pick-up men Aaron Hudson and Jimbo Albritton for helping keep the riders (and the stock) safe. SEE Y’ALL NEXT YEAR IN NORTH FORT MYERS!
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ARCADIA YOUTH RODEO HOLDS ANNUAL BANQUET ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATHY GREGG
The 2014 - 2015 season of the Arcadia Youth Rodeo Association drew to a close on the weekend of April 18 – 19. In the past, the banquet has followed the Finals, but this year they tried something different, making it a weekend event (which everyone seemed to enjoy).
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The Finals were held on Saturday, then there was a break in the afternoon heat (when I understand many enjoyed the pool at the Holiday Inn!), then a dance was held at the rodeo grounds. (And Jimmy Fussell had fun ribbing those young cowboys about dancing with all those pretty cowgirls!) Then
May 2015
everyone returned on Sunday morning for Cowboy Church, followed by a luncheon banquet and the awards.
While each division saw prizes awarded out to at least the sixth place, the Senior events saw only the buckle awarded to the event winner. The money that would have been used for other prizes went back into bigger payouts to these youth, several of which are graduating and going onto college (some on rodeo scholarships). These seven graduating seniors will each receive a $250 scholarship from the AYRA upon showing attendance at a college or vocational school (a tradition that was started several years ago, and has continued every year).
The awards started with special plaques as a thank-you to the many sponsors. Senior Aldyn Ashton of Lorida was chosen to be the honorary recipient for those not present. In fact, Jimmy Fussell (who was the emcee for the awards) teared up at one point when mentioning Aldyn, who has been actively involved with AYRA since its inception in March of 2008, having been the All-Around Cowgirl many times both in the Junior and Senior divisions. There were several close races, and even some surprise turnarounds in the winners. Aldyn was only one point above the second-place girl in the Seniors goat-tying, but maintained her lead. Blake Butts went into the Finals in second place in the Tots goat-tying, then pulled ahead in April to take that buckle, as did Kylee Porter in the Juniors barrel racing event. Little Cael Nelson has had quite the year, having had the privilege of riding into the arena at the Saturday performance of the Arcadia All-Florida Championship Rodeo, and then having met the members of the saddlebronc riding Wright family that competed in the Sunday performance (including having them autograph his mini-bareback rigging).
All of the event winners are listed after this article, but those winning the All-Around Cowboy and Cowgirl saddles deserve a special mention here. The Tots winners were Cross Fulford of Moore Haven as Cowboy, and Blake Butts of Okeechobee as Cowgirl. The Juniors winners both hail from Arcadia,
May 2015
being Rylan Lipe for the Cowboy and Savannah Nelson for the Cowgirl. Patrick Carlton of Wauchula took home the saddle for the Senior Cowboy, and Britta Strain of Davie for the Senior Cowgirl. CONGRATS to ALL of the winners, and to ALL of the contestants for a job well done!
LIST OF BUCKLE WINNERS: Mutton Bustin’.........Cael Nelson Calf-Riding ..........................Brody Clemons
Team Roping: Header................Patrick Carlton Heeler................. Parker Carlton
Steer-Riding ............................ Lane Graziani
Barrel Racing: Tots –Harley Pryor Juniors....................Kylee Porter Seniors....................Ashlan Lipe
Junior Bull-Riding ............................. Steven Ames Senior Bull-Riding ................................Wyatt Willis Saddlebronc Riding ................................. Kyle Mann Chute Doggin’ ........................... Jace Johnston Steer Wrestling ........................... Parker Carlton Breakaway Roping: Tots........................ Zack Carlton Juniors.......... Cayden Newsome Seniors...............Patrick Carlton Tie-Down Roping: Tots............... Cayden Newsome Juniors...................... Rylan Lipe Seniors................... Amery Bass
Pole Bending: Tots........................ Harley Pryor Juniors........... Savannah Nelson Seniors....................Ashlan Lipe Goat-Tying: Tots.......................... Blake Butts Juniors –Savannah Nelson Seniors................. Aldyn Ashton Reserve All-Around Champions: Tots ............ Cael Nelson as Cowboy .............Harley Pryor as Cowgirl Juniors .. Cayden Newsome as Cowboy .............Kylee Porter as Cowgirl Seniors...................................... ............ Amery Bass as Cowboy ............Aldyn Ashton as Cowgirl
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This bold new program jointly sponsored by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Wildlife Foundation of Florida leads the effort to reconnect Florida’s children with traditional outdoor activities. Already in operation, the FYCCN is proving to be a formidable weapon in the fight against too much time spent indoors with electronic media and too little time spent outdoors with nature. As part of the partnership between FYCCN and Mosaic, there will be 14 FWC staff from around the state serving as instructors, to provide our youngsters the education and guidance they need to get safely engaged in traditional outdoor activities. The FYCCN will be hosting the entire 4th grade for Hardee County Schools at Hardee Lakes Park as part of their mission in “Creating the Next Generation that Cares” in April and May The lessons for each trip will include an Introduction to Archery, Wildlife: Find that Bird, Boating: Canoeing Basics, and Lets Go Fishing! Learn more at http://www.fyccn.org/
SKILLS FOR A LIFETIME!
Participating in traditional outdoor recreational activities not only provides endless hours of enjoyment in the natural world, but can inspire a lifelong interest in the conservation of fish and wildlife resources. The School Field Experiences component of the Conservation Adventures curriculum provides modules for each of the following skills: fishing, boating, archery, and wildlife discovery. FISHING: This activity serves as an introduction to the skills required for fishing. FWC Fisheries Biologists will conduct the fish identification lessons and provide expert guidance for the hands-on fishing experience. Students will learn about common fishing equipment and bait which will enable them to match their equipment to the different types of fishing available at Hardee Lakes Park.
BOATING: Students will learn the skills necessary to become safe, confident canoeists. Participants will learn the basics of canoeing including paddling strokes, maneuvering techniques and safe boating practices. This activity will be taught by ACA certified instructors and a 1 to 5 staff to student ratio will be maintained while students are on the water. WILDLIFE DISCOVERY: This activity serves as an introduction to observation techniques and teaches the basics needed to confidently find and identify wildlife. Participants will learn basic bird identification clues and how to use binoculars. A field walk will allow participants to practice observational skills and binocular use.
ARCHERY: Students will learn the basics of archery. Genesis compound bows will be used to teach students how to draw, aim, and release safely. Participants will practice shooting targets at various distances. This activity will be taught by USA Archery certified instructors with a 1 to 5 staff to student ratio.
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The overall goal of the Conservation Adventures curriculum is to encourage youth to make outdoor recreation a habit for life and equip them to be life-long stewards of our natural resources. By incorporating conservation education into the teaching of outdoor recreational skills, participants begin to master boating, fishing, archery, and wildlife viewing skills while building conservation literacy and learning stewardship behaviors.
May 2015
Lord, Hear Our Cry
THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER 2015 BY DIXIE THOMAS was in 1775 when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom for founding our young country. Among other calls to prayer, President Lincoln also called for a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer” in 1863. We have records of 1,419 state and federal calls for prayer since 1775. Of the forty-four U.S. Presidents, thirty-four of them have signed proclamations for National Prayer. Ironically, three of the Presidents who did not sign a proclamation of prayer, died while serving in office.
The National Day of Prayer is an annual event, held on the first Thursday of the month of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for our nation. This year’s events will be held on May 7th, and the theme is “Lord, Hear Our Cry.” The National Day of Prayer was established in 1952 by a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress, and was signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Prayer and faith have been a vital part of our national fabric since the founding of our nation. Many of our founding fathers, such as George Washington, openly acknowledged God and prayed for wisdom and guidance in founding our nation. The first national call to prayer
May 2015
Every year at the National Day of Prayer, observances of prayer are held across America—at state capitols, county courthouses, city halls, in schools, businesses, churches, and homes. Regardless of our socioeconomic status, race, religion, or political stance, the National Day of Prayer is for every American. It is a day to seek God’s forgiveness, guidance, strength, and favor, and a day to exercise our constitutional right to freedom of religion. Shirley Dobson, the National Day of Prayer chairman exhorts Americans saying this: “We have lost many or our freedoms in America because we have been asleep. I feel if we do not become involved and support the annual National Day of Prayer, we could end up forfeiting this freedom too.” To find out more about the National Day of Prayer or to find information about National Day of Prayer events happening near you, visit the NDP website at nationaldayofprayer.org. Heartland InTheField Magazine
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FUTURE FARMERS OF AMERICA
YOUNG EAGLES AGRICULTURAL AVIATION
The plan began a year ago when the Future Farmers of America treated our organizations (Florida Cub Flyers & Florida Antique Biplane Association) to a wonderful lunch at the Glades Day School during our vegetable farm tour. We sought to try and repay these squared away kids for their efforts. To accomplish the task, we pulled together a group of folks we knew who would and could make things happen. The lead person in that category was Willie Lee of Aerial Crop Protection. There are those who ride the wagon and those who pull it. Willie is definitely a puller.
Our mission was to educate the kids as to the opportunities available for their future in the Glades and particularly to promote agricultural aviation as a career. What better organizations to “light that fire” in that realm than the Florida Cub Flyers, Florida Antique Biplane Association and the Experimental Aircraft Association? So, with the help of Willie Lee, Mike Swindle (FFA Coordinator at Glades Day School), Linda Minton (Executive Director of Florida Agricultural Aviation Association), Rick Golightly (EAA Chapter 203), Bart Perryman (Aerial Crop Protection) and Norman Harrison (Glades Central HS Ag Program Director) we set the plan in motion with the culmination occurring on February 21st, 2015. That’s the back story in very brief format. I can assure you that nothing like this occurs briefly with the planning and execution of such a complex undertaking. The actual result of the planning occurred with a day of aviating at Belle Glade, Florida. Planes, pilots, kids and parents began arriving at 0730 on a chilly, breezy morning in February at the beautifully maintained ag airstrip in Belle
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Glade. A wide variety of aircraft were on hand. All manner of Cubs, Cessna, Stearmans, a Howard DGA, Robinson helicopter and a Beech T34 hauled kids on a pre-planned route over points of interest in the surrounding countryside. We were welcomed with southern hospitality. Coffee, donuts and fresh orange juice was supplied by Judy Sanchez of U.S. Sugar Corp. Our aircraft covered the grassy ramp with a broad spectrum of types to be used introducing kids to the realm of the air. There were a lot of smiling kids in evidence as they completed their aviation adventure. Hopefully we lit the fire in a few of the kids who came from as far as Sebring High School, Okeechobee High School and Glades Central High School. The State and District Officers of the FFA were in attendance and rode the zephyrs with us.
The aerial application operators have made this airstrip a showplace for the industry with a nice paved runway and acres of manicured grassy ramp. This was a perfect spot to fly the kids while getting to observe the comings and goings of pristine Air Tractors involved in aerial application missions. All this visual and auditory experience not to be forgotten even by the well seasoned aviators amongst us. If you participated in this day of aviating, you are richer for it. Thanks to all for devoting your time, effort and treasure to this worthwhile day to introduce the kids to our realm.
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business involves close inspection of crops, determining what ails them and making specific recommendations how to remedy any problems.
Things officially kicked off with Tyler and Bill Ulrich of Van Wagner Aerial Media picking up a banner and circling the field welcoming the FFA to the day of aviating.
A safety briefing with explanation of our pre-planned flight route over points of interest was conducted along with a briefing by Rick Golightly of the EAA. Then the fun began with kids being paired with loaders and pilots for the aerial missions. Planes were in the air continually until noon when we were chauffeured by bus to Glades Day School across the street for lunch. Chauffeured across the street! Did you get that? Maybe they thought we were too old to walk that far? Anyway, just another example of how well planned and executed was this day. Every detail far exceeded the plan thanks to the folks involved.
The agribusiness in this farming area is actively looking for educated young folks to help produce food for the nation in the most efficient manner possible. There are opportunities here and the leaders of agribusiness want to retain the talent available. Especially the squared away kids to whom we were exposed. One and all are exemplary products of their parents and community. Wrapping things up, we were all presented with a goody bag of fresh produce grown right there in the Glades supplied by Paul Orsenigo of Growers Management, Inc. Grown with the help of the aerial applicators to maximize production per acre of cultivated land. Larry Robinson Executive Director Florida Cub Flyers, Inc.
During the safety briefing, Brandon Pena of Jacobs Flight Service explained to the kids that there was a pilot training program right there local at Air Glades Airport in Clewiston. The John Deere and Case Dealers were kind enough to bring examples of their BIG farm tractors to display and allow the kids to crawl over them. Thanks to Mike Schlecter of Everglades Farm Equipment and George Cooper of Glade & Grove Supply. Lt. Kevin O’Brien of the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Department brought their Jet Ranger to the function and answered the many questions put to them by the kids, parents and our pilots. We also had a vintage Bell Huey helicopter, piloted by Terry Robertson, on site for the kids to tour. At lunch we were treated to a presentation by Meghan Pasken of Glades Crop Care. Meghan introduced us to yet another opportunity for good jobs in the Glades. Meghan’s
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TRAVEL FEATURE
FESTIVE FOURTH OF JULY DESTINATIONS By The Getaway Girl® Casey Wohl Hartt
Nothing says Independence Day like fireworks, and Travel Expert Casey Wohl, known as The Getaway Girl®, has some amazing cities across the country to see the colorful shows in style.
WILMINGTON, NC Located on the southeast side of North Carolina, Wilmington is a perfect summer getaway retreat that’s surrounded by water, history and natural beauty. It features nearly two miles of scenic Riverwalk along the historic Cape Fear River. Lose yourself in a vibrant array of locally owned shops and restaurants, as well as colorful attractions - including a thriving arts and cultural scene, riverboat cruises, and a World War II battleship. Stroll along the 230+ block National Register Historic District, brimming with Victorian-era homes and
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gardens. The brick paved streets of downtown take you back in time as you ride along in a horse-drawn carriage. Its beach towns - Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, and Wrightsville Beach - all charm visitors and residents alike with an independent spirit and energy that nourishes and recharges the soul.
And Wilmington is the perfect site for the best family event in July. There is nothing that screams family fun and patriotism like watching fireworks over a World War II Battleship. On July 4 each year, the Battleship NORTH CAROLINA, across from downtown Wilmington, proudly presents a spectacular pyrotechnic show that will knock your socks off. Already noted as one of the top places to being during the holiday, onlookers walk away with a sense of pride in their country. Before the fireworks begin at 9:05pm the streets of Wilmington come alive with band performances and vendors showcasing the best of the best this coastal town has to offer. It is an event you will never forget. http://www.battleshipnc.com/Events/ BattleshipBlast
May 2015
NEWPORT, CA Co-sponsored by City of Newport Beach, Newport Dunes Resort’s annual fireworks presentation has become one of the area’s most popular 4th of July destinations. Located 10 miles south of Downtown Santa Ana, CA, Newport Beach is the perfect Fourth of July location for anyone who loves rock n’ roll music, beach and fun in the sun. Tribute bands honoring these legends of rock will take the stage from 3-9 p.m. as the Dunes carries on its half-century-plus summer tradition with all-day family fun festivities followed by one of the regions finest fireworks presentations. From 11 a.m.-7p.m., attendees can enjoy a number of fun activities including a Velcro wall, dunk tank, bungee run, cake walk, limbo contests, inflatable jumpers and bounce houses. Newport Dunes Resort is a 100acre waterfront resort featuring a 386-site state-of-the-art RV park, 450-slip marina and a private waveless beach and playground that has been enjoyed by families since 1958. It is also is home to 24 mobile cottages that the public may rent. Each May, the Dunes will open up its Aquatic Fun Park and visitors can also rent kayaks, windsurfers, pedal boats, bicycles, and electric boats. www.newportdunes.com
MT. RUSHMORE, SD There is little to compare to celebrating America’s Birthday under the faces of the country’s most famous men. Each year the Fourth of July or Independence Day Celebration at Mount Rushmore provides the visitor with great entertainment. During the day music is provided by live performers which are sure to please everyone. In addition there are performances along the Avenue of Flags, Military honors, a flag folding ceremony, Declaration of Independence reading, a U.S. Air Force flyover and the monument lighting complete two days of activities. Acclaimed as one of the 10 man-made wonders of the world, celebrating the Fourth of July here is truly a tribute to American history. You can get up close to the famous visages of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and Theodore Roosevelt by following the Presidential Trail. Or, you can celebrate by night, at the July 4th fireworks display.
May 2015
BOSTON Home to many of the pivotal historical moments leading to American Independence, few locations could be more patriotic. More than 200 events make up the six-day long annual Boston Harborfest that’s celebrated in conjunction with Boston Navy Week. Warships and military tall ships from several nations are expected to be in Boston for the festivities as there will be a Parade of Ships in Boston Harbor that will be open to the public throughout. Annual Party on the Plaza will be held, featuring Disco Inferno. Over 200 events during these six days will provide entertainment throughout the festival. The schedule includes historical reenactments, walking tours, sunset harbor cruises, and free noontime concerts throughout the week on City Hall Plaza. Visitors to the 31st Annual Chowderfest will vote for “Boston’s Best Chowder” after sampling traditional New England style clam chowder from top Boston area restaurants. Free admission to over half of the over 200 events makes the celebration accessible to all. In addition, to Harborfest, there will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence from the Old State house and the Boston Pops Firework Spectacular, which is known as the premier Independence Day celebration in the nation. Each year, since its inception, hundreds of thousands of people come from all over the country to the banks of the Charles River to celebrate America’s birthday while another seven million tune in nationally on the CBS Television Network to view the event during a live one-hour primetime special.
Author Casey Wohl Hartt is known as The Getaway Girl®, author of the Girls Getaway Guide travel books series and travel correspondent for many local and national TV shows. She resides in Sebring and owns Gray Dog Communications, a marketing and public relations firm serving clients in agriculture, real estate, tourism, government and non profit sectors. For more information, visit www.GirlsGetawayGuide. net. Heartland InTheField Magazine
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Happenings IN THE HEARTLAND
A GOOD DEED ON GOOD FRIDAY
DE SOTO NATIONAL MEMORIAL BRADENTON, FLORIDA
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new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that 342,039 visitors to De Soto National Memorial in 2014 spent $45 million in the local community. That spending supported 304 jobs in the area. “We are very grateful to our community and we are delighted we can give back to it,” said Superintendent Jorge Acevedo. “De Soto National Memorial is a heritage site very much ingrained in the fabric of our community; it was them who recognized the importance of keeping our heritage and started a campaign to have the park established. That relationship is strong; our community supports the park and its educational programs. We continue to provide programs of excellence, visitation continues to grow and the economic benefit should continue to increase”. De Soto National Memorial was established in 1948 to commemorate the De Soto expedition of 1539 and its impact on the American Indian tribal societies of the American Southeast, as well as the continues history of the United States of America.
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ames in this story are being withheld due to a current investigation. Sergeant Paul Ferrell received a call from an elderly Okeechobee woman regarding an individual who defrauded her out of $11,000 to cut down an Oak tree in her backyard. The 92 year old woman stated that the individual offered to cut down the oak tree and remove debris along with grinding the tree stump. The woman paid the individual but the work was never completed! The individual returned to her home to cut down the large oak tree but then never returned to clean up the mess! During the cutting down of the tree, the individual also broke the cable line from the house and the homeowner had to pay to have it rewired. The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Officers along with other volunteers, donated their day off on “Good Friday” to helping this elderly woman who was a victim of a scam. Waste Management/Okeechobee Landfill Inc. donated a 20 yard container and disposal fees to help with the volunteer efforts. “This type of scam is common to elderly folks, said Sgt. Ferrell. Everyone needs to be aware of individuals who knock on your door to say they “noticed a problem with your roof, trees, etc.” If you suspect a possible scam, please do not hesitate to call the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Department at 863-763-3117.
Submit your photos and events for Heartland Happenings to rhonda@heartlanditf.com
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All supplies provided for classes. To register for these classes or for more information about HAL, visit www. HighlandsArtLeague.org or call (863) 385-6682.
HIGHLANDS ART LEAGUE PRESENTS MOTHER’S DAY ART CLASSES FOR ALL AGES
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other’s Day is approaching and it is time for everyone to express eternal gratitude for all the hard-working moms out there. The Highlands Art League (HAL) is pleased to present several art classes for all ages, as well as art shopping and appreciation opportunities, to celebrate Mother’s Day during the month of May. Art provides a way for mothers and children of all ages to bond and express their creative sides. Art Classes: • Saturday, May 9 - Make It With Me Class “Sprinkled With Love.” Mom paints large canvas and 1-2 children paint to smaller accompanying canvases for a complete painting. (Recommended ages 4+.) • Friday, May 1 & Wednesday, May 6 - Art Uncorked Classes “Swinging Sunset” and “You & I.” Ages 21+ • Sunday, May 10 (Mother’s Day) and Tuesday, May 12 - Art No Corked Classes (no wine served; recommended ages 10+) “Daisy Bouquet” and “Western Cross.” Art Shopping & Appreciation Opportunities: • Highlands Museum of the Arts (MoTA) “Reflections” Exhibit by Luke Andrews • Yellow House Gallery & Gift Shop - Retail Center, Studio Artists & Artist of the Month Art Exhibit
CAMPAIGN AGAINST SUMMER HUNGER MARCH 31-MAY 9, 2015
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hen school ends, hunger begins for thousands of students in Sarasota and DeSoto Counties who are on free or reduced lunch programs during the school year. Join All Faiths Food Bank’s Campaign Against Summer Hunger to help feed children and their families this summer. Please empty your shelves and make a donation at www.allfaithsfoodbank. org. Together, we can make sure that no child goes hungry this summer. Food may be dropped off at any Sarasota County Goodwill. Call 941-379-6333 for more information.
Submit your photos and events for Heartland Happenings to rhonda@heartlanditf.com May 2015
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EARTH DAY RECOGNIZED IN DOWNTOWN SEBRING
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he Sebring Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), in conjunction with the City of Sebring, hosted the 2015 Earth Day ceremony on April 22, Earth Day, at Downtown Sebring’s Rotary Park on the shores of Lake Jackson. Sebring Mayor John Shoop read the City’s proclamation honoring Earth Day, and he read the first Earth Day proclamation that was read in San Francisco in 1970. In addition to the Mayor’s comments, the Highlands Art League provided ecofriendly arts and crafts projects for kids, which was free for the public thanks to a donation by Home Depot. “Earth Day is a continual reminder that we, as a community, must protect and safeguard the balance and quality of nature, said Mayor Shoop. “We celebrate this day in the best interest of our citizens, now and in the future, to be able to enjoy what nature has to offer, making the City of Sebring one of the finest places to live and play.”
International Earth Day is a celebration of the Earth and its ecosystems, which provide all of its inhabitants with life and sustenance. Observed each year on April 22, this day is a call to action as it acknowledges our collective responsibility “to promote harmony with nature and the Earth” in order to “achieve a just balance among the economic, social, and environmental needs of present and future generations” of humanity. For more information about Downtown Sebring, visit www.DowntownSebring.org.
HIGHLANDS ART LEAGUE
CREATIVE KIDS CAMP
June 15 - July 24 (Mon - Fri) (Ages 6-12)
Themed weeks available Register at www.HighlandsArtLeague.org or Call (863) 385-6682
Full Day $100/wk Half Day $60/wk
Submit your photos and events for Heartland Happenings to rhonda@heartlanditf.com
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AG CALENDAR MAY 1st – 3rd Sandy Kuhn Memorial Ride benefitting Heartland Horses & Handicapped, Zolfo Springs 2nd Tater Hill Fun Shoot, Square One Sporting Clays Club, Lake Placid 3rd 20th Annual Taste of the Beach, Ft. Myers 8th Florida Hospital Heartland Clay Shoot, Quail Creek Plantation, Okeechobee
9th Spring in to Gardening Festival, St. Lucie County Extension Office, Ft. Pierce 9th-10th Florida High School Rodeo, Wauchula 10th Happy Mother’s Day! 12th Central Florida Peach Roundtable, Dade City 13th-15th Florida Beef Cattle Short Course, Gainesville
13th-15th Florida Farm Bureau Field to the Hill trip, Washington, DC 16th 3rd Annual Key Lime Festival, Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda 16th Summerize Your Vegetable Garden, Manatee County Cooperative Extension Service, Palmetto 25th 2nd Annual Memorial Day 5-D Barrel Race, Arcadia Rodeo Arena
Submit your events for the ag calendar to rhonda@heartlanditf.com
IN THE FIELD MAGAZINE Your Monthly Agricultural Magazine Since 2004, Serving the Heartland Since 2008
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Heartland’s Growing Businesses
Month May 2015 2014
Heartland InTheFieldMagazine
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Dakin “Dairy Day” Festival - Homestead Cheese Debut Family fun event on Saturday, June 6 in honor of National Dairy Month June is National Dairy Month, and in recognition of this yearly celebration of milk, Dakin Dairy Farms will host its annual Dairy Day family fun event on Saturday, June 6, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. An excellent way to celebrate the end of the school and farm tour season.
This year they introduce cheese maker, Allen Bassler! After 27 years of making homestead cheddar type cheeses right on the farm in Upperville, VA, Allen will be joining Dakin Dairy Farms to make Dakin homestead cheeses! Samples of his last batch of cheeses will be part of the festival ticket giving our guests a taste of what is around the corner. The Dakin’s will begin making and aging a cheddar cheese beginning this fall/winter. “This has been our dream since the beginning” Karen Dakin expresses with great excitement stating, “milk from each farm has its own character based on breed and diet, so we are very excited to taste cheeses made from our milk rich in flavor from our cows fresh grass diet - you just can’t beat the flavor package of fresh grass in the diet.”
Visitors to the farm will be treated to a variety of “bone and muscle building” activities all included in the ticket price, including calf scrambles, rock-climbing wall, mechanical bull, Strider bikes, challenge course and a 35’ waterslide to keep you cool. Entertainment includes local country and blue grass music by Southern Pride and “Moogician” Todd Charles offering 3 magical dairy shows. 4H clubs will be there providing awareness of club opportunities and hands on experiences. Also included are pony rides, cow train rides, face painting, butter making and more Chef Ken of Chefs 2 U food truck will be on site with Slap Yo Mama Mac and Cheese, Grilled Cheese & Pork belly with Cheddar & Gruyere, Stuffed Burger with Bleu Cheese, Corn Tortilla with Creamy Cheddar Cheese Sauce and Fresh Cut Fries with Bacon & Cheese. Don’t miss their drawing for $200 towards a Food Truck Party or Catering Event.
Located on 1,000 acres in Myakka City, Dakin Dairy Farms is a fully sustainable farm, growing its own fresh grass by utilizing a fully integrated composting system to fertilize and create a nutrient rich environment to improve sandy Florida soils. Cows are fed a diet of fresh grass that is cut twice daily and mixed with a well balanced mix of grains, minerals and hay to produce a high quality, sweet, white milk.
The farm produces 100% natural fresh milk, including fat free, 1%, 2%, whole milk, chocolate milk, fresh heavy cream, half and half, buttermilk and spiced eggnog, which is shipped throughout the State of Florida. Dakin Dairy Farms is the only dairy farm in all of Florida that produces and bottles its own milk and offers tours to the public. “Opening the farm for tours has really been a labor of love for our entire family,” explained Karen Dakin. “As the number of Florida dairy farms continues to dwindle, it’s important for the next generation to know how important farming is, and how local farmers play a vital role in keeping families healthy with natural, wholesome products.”
Lulu’s Nitrogen Ice Cream opening in Miami, FL June, 2015 will debut their ice cream using only the best local ingredients like fresh milk and cream exclusively from Dakin Dairy Farms. Luisa Santos, while earning a degree in Political Economy at Georgetown University became fascinated with the process of making ice cream using liquid nitrogen which led to catering events and attending farmers markets in the Washington, D.C. area (Karen Dakin’s hometown) “It is quite the show as they make individual batches in their blender using liquid nitrogen, and guess what – no head freezers when you eat it” adds Karen.
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WWW.RIVERPASTURE.COM
RODGER DRAWDY
863 990 9851
CUSTOM GATES AND GATE OPERATOR SYSTEMS
May 2015
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Find it at your favorite equine dealer
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Fuel your growing season with propane. Irrigation Incentives Available Now
Florida Propane Gas Safety Education & Research Council For more information, visit www.oridapropane.org/peff-incentives/irrigation/ or email info@FloridaGas.org
May 2015
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Fresh from Florida Mineral for your Spring Supplement Needs: Super-Min Minerals Super-Min Big Red Mineral Blocks Super-Pro Fly Blocks with Rabon Super-Mol Molasses Blocks, still available upon request
1-800-741-5450
SUPER-MIN™ SUPER-MOL™
SUPER-PRO™ LIVESTOCK SUPPLEMENTS
www. floridamineralonline.net
“This is the month of “spring starvation” and you might have to continue feeding hay and other low quality roughages until summer pastures come in... Check mineral feeders and keep them filled.” UF Extension Beef Management Calendar
AN UPLAND BIRD HUNTER’S PARADISE in an Old Florida
setting at its finest!
Whether it’s just for fun or mixing a little business with pleasure, Quail Creek Plantation awards the prize when it comes to an outdoor paradise for hunting and fishing. Shoot some sporting clays to warm up before finding the covey on a guided hunt for upland birds. Finish the day with a pole and go angling for that big fish to talk about later. Kick back and enjoy the Quail Creek Lodge and dine on fried quail for lunch, or have our gourmet chefs help you plan a special dinner for a fundraiser or private event at Quail Creek Plantation. WEDDINGS || CONFERENCES || FUNDRAISERS/BANQUETS || SPORTING CLAYS 12399 Northeast 224th Street • Okeechobee, Florida 34972 • 863-763-2529 www.quailcreekplantation.com • reservations@quailcreekplantation.com
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Florida has been home to seven generations of our family. The Heartland Area and Treasure Coast has helped us sustain our business for the last 89 years. We believe there is greatness in our state, our region and our community!
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May 2015
WWW.DOMERSINC.COM
Have a question? We’re happy to help...
863-763-3417 INFO@DOMERSINC.COM
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Challenger Certified Pre-Owned Equipment Every piece of Challenger Certified Pre-Owned Equipment goes through a rigid 100+ POINT INSPECTION and comes with an industry-leading, minimum 1-year/500-hour extended coverage plan.
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