INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
August 2020
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AUGUST 2020 VOL. 15 • ISSUE 10
CONTENTS PLANT CITY CHAMBER SALUTE TO AG
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Hillsborough County Farm Bureau 305 S. Wheeler St. Plant City, FL. Office Hours: Mon. - Fri. 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Insurance Services: 813-685-5673 Member Services: 813-685-9121
OFFICERS AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Cover Photo by Alexis Green PAGE 10 Beagle Brigade
PAGE 36 Gardening
PAGE 12 Busniess Up Front
PAGE 38 Creative Cacti PAGE 40 Composting
PAGE 16 Strawberry Season
PAGE 41 Food Systems
PAGE 18 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 42
PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter
Cover Crops
PAGE 46 John Dicks
PAGE 24 Suspicious Seeds
PAGE 48 Endangered Species
PAGE 27 HCSO
PAGE 52 Literary Time Machine
PAGE 29 Clean Waterways PAGE 33 News Briefs
PAGE 54 Scott Angle
PAGE 35 Mangosteen
PAGE 55 Burger King
Hey Readers!
Hidden somewhere in the magazine is a No Farmers, No Food logo. Hunt for the logo and once you find the hidden logo you will be eligible for a drawing to win a FREE No Farmers No Food Sticker. Send us your business card or an index card with your name and telephone number, the number of the page which you found the logo and where on the page you located the logo to the address below
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InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner!
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Dennis Carlton, Jr.....................President Jake Raburn................Vice President Tony Lopez..............Treasurer Buddy Coleman..................Secretary DIRECTORS FOR 2018 - 2019 Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes
Judi Whitson, Executive Director 813-685-9121 Farm Bureau Insurance Special Agents
Valrico Office 813-685-5673
100 S. Mulrennan Rd., Valrico, FL. 33594 Tommy Hale, CLU, ChFC, CASL, CPCU Agency Mgr. Julie Carlson, Amy Engle
Plant City Office 813.752.5577
305 S. Wheeler St., Plant City, FL 33563 Jeff Summer Artis Griffin
Tampa Office 813.933.5440
6535 Gunn Highway, Tampa, FL.33625 Greg Harrell, Jared Bean
AGENCY MANAGER Thomas O. Hale WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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STAFF
Letter from the Editor Another month of mask wearing, self-isolating and social distancing is in the books and this year just keeps getting longer. And longer. And longer. I’m almost positive it will go down in history as the longest year ever. On that note, the USDA Farm Service agency has announced that it will continue to accept applications for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program through August 28, 2020. USDA has $16 billion in financial assistance to producers of agricultureal commodities who have suffered a five-percent-or-greater price decline due to COVID-19 and face additional significant marketing costs due to lower demand, surplus production and disruptions to shipping patterns and the orderly marketing of commodities. In Hillsborough County, email both Hilary.Howard@usda. gov and Marcinda.Kester@usda.gov. In Polk County contact both Sandra. Chestnut@usda.gov and Marcida.Kester@usda.gov. As if 2020 hasn’t thrown enough curve balls our way, we started getting suspicious seed packets from China. We don’t know what the seeds are so for goodness sake don’t plant them! We are always on the search for great article ideas. If you think you know of something that may be of interest, please do not hesitate to contact us. Also, please check out our advertisers. They allow us to continue to cover what is growing.
Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Editor Patsy Berry Sales Karen Berry Sarah Holt Melissa Nichols Creative Director/Illustrator Juan Alvarez Photography Karen Berry Stephanie Humphry Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Breanne Williams Anita Todd Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks Social Media Victoria Saunders
Stay safe! In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Hillsborough County businesses, restaurants, and many local venues. It is also distributed by U.S. mail to a target market, which includes all of the Greenbelt Property owners, members of the Hillsborough County Farm Bureau and Strawberry Grower’s Association.
Until Next Month,
Sarah Holt The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25
Letters, comments and questions can be sent to P.O. Box 5377, Plant City, Florida 33563-0042 or you are welcome to email them to: info@inthefieldmagazine.com or call 813-759-6909 Advertisers warrant & represent the descriptions of their products advertised are true in all respects. In The Field Magazine assumes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers. All views expressed in all articles are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Berry Publications, Inc. Any use or duplication of material used in In the Field magazine is prohibited without written consent from Berry Publications, Inc.
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Published by Berry Publications, Inc.
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CHANGES PROMPTED BY COVID-19
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY
-Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
Greetings, My hopes and prayers that everyone is doing well and staying safe during these trying times. As you know there are many changes that will be taking place with respect to upcoming public events, school openings and more in response to the global pandemic COVID-19. Florida Farm Bureau has announced that its annual meeting will be virtual as will many associated gatherings. Here in Hillsborough County, we have decided that it is in the best interest of our Farm Bureau members and their families not to hold our annual meeting and steak dinner. This was an action we took after much deliberation since we recognize this important opportunity for fellowship and information sharing regarding our organization and its various initiatives that support agriculture. There are other events coming up over the near term, and while I hope they will take place, I ask that you understand why they are being either postponed or canceled – it is about our safety and well- being. I would like to make note of an ongoing initiative involving the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners and the county planning commission to streamline all water policy considerations into one comprehensive plan named “One Water.” This ongoing collaborative and comprehensive program serves to update, modernize and combine the previously separate Stormwater Management, Potable Water and Sanitary Sewerage Elements of the Unincorporated Hillsborough County Comprehensive Plan to reflect the interrelated nature of water. The update will replace these Elements in the Comprehensive Plan, incorporate Water
resources-related language from other Elements and provide a framework for new County initiatives such as green infrastructure and coordinated water resources planning. Stakeholders in the county’s agricultural community have been involved in these discussions and overall effort to help mold the language and intent of the policy moving forward. Among those from the Ag community actively involved are Farm Bureau, Strawberry Growers and the Ag Economic Development Council. These policies are a continuation of conservation and stewardship efforts that have become a cornerstone of the agricultural community in eastern Hillsborough County. We will keep you updated on “One Water” and the final version upon completion. And as always, if you are reading this letter, but are not a Farm Bureau member, please consider joining. Membership helps both your family and our industry. To learn more about Farm Bureau and the opportunities and benefits membership offers, please contact us at: www.hcfarmbureau.org or call our office in Plant City at 813/685-9121. Your membership will help make the Voice of Agriculture just a little louder. Thank you. Dennis Carlton, Jr.
Dennis Carlton Jr. Dennis Carlton Jr. - President
305 SOUTH WHEELER STREET • PLANT CITY, FL 33566 • 813-685-9121 Board of Directors
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Dennis Carlton, Jr. , President; Jake Raburn, Vice-President; Tony Lopez Treasurer; Buddy Coleman, Secretary; Christina Andrlik, Carl Bauman, Jake Cremer, Tiffany Dale, Carson Futch, Jim Frankowiak, Chip Hinton, John Joyner, Lawrence McClure, Sambahv,Jay Marty Tanner, Vincent Tort, Will Womack, Gayle Yanes Judi Whitson, Executive Director
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AN EMERGENCY IS STILL AN EMERGENCY. EVEN DURING THIS EMERGENCY.
Don’t hesitate when it comes to getting emergency treatment. Even during a pandemic, you still need to be treated immediately if you have an emergency. Debating whether or not to risk going to an emergency room during a heart attack, stroke or other health emergency—waiting even a few extra minutes—could be harmful. That’s why
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20-1127552-0520
in all BayCare hospital emergency rooms, patients who have symptoms of COVID-19 are screened and treated in a separate area. This helps keep emergency room patients and our team members safe. So if it’s an emergency, don’t wait. For more information: BayCareEmergencyCare.org
TAMPA’S “BEAGLE BRIGADE”
TEAM MEMBERS – HELPING TO PROTECT AMERICAN AGRICULTURE
By Jim Frankowiak Tampa International Airport (TIA) is the primary workplace for Marten, a beagle–terrier mix, and his handler U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Agriculture Specialist Canine Handler – CBPAS K9 Sherwood as they strive to protect American agriculture. The team, on occasion, has also searched returning cruise ship passengers’ luggage and inspected personal effects and other shipped items at cargo warehouses.
at seaports. In 2003, when USDA transferred all of the agriculture specialists, including canine teams, to CBP, approximately 75 canine teams came over to the new agency. Today, over 100 CBP agriculture canine teams provide inspections at border crossings, international cargo warehouses, international air passenger terminals, cruise terminals and international mail facilities.”
This team, which is soon to be joined by another, is part of the “Beagle Brigade,” which began in 1984 “when the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) established its detector dog program at Los Angeles International Airport with one beagle trained to sniff out plants and animal products in luggage and hand-carry items arriving on international flights,” said Thanuja Hall, Agriculture Operations Manager, Agriculture Programs and Trade Liaison, CBP. “By 1995, the program had grown to 30 canine teams as part of the “Beagle Brigade” at 19 international airports throughout the United States, including TIA.”
At TIA, CBPAS K9 Sherwood’s detector dog Marten sniffs for agricultural products such as fruits, meats and plants in international luggage with the mission “to safeguard American agriculture and our natural resources by preventing the introduction of foreign insects and plant and animal diseases,” said Sherwood.
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“Beagles and beagle mixes are the preferred breed of dog at the airport because of their keen sense of smell, non-threatening size, high food drive and gentle disposition with the public,” noted Hall. “In 2000, USDA started using larger dogs outside the air passenger environment by employing Labradors, with the launch of the “Border Brigade” on the Mexican and Canadian borders and “Cargo Brigade” in cargo facilities
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“Marten was two-years-old when he was procured by the USDA from an animal shelter in Alabama,” said Sherwood. “Prospective detector dogs are given temperament tests to see if they will be a good fit for our agency. They must be food motivated to accept treats as a reward, and they must be comfortable with the noisiness and commotion of airport and seaport environments. They retire at age 9 and their handlers have the first pick at adoption.” Sherwood noted the monthly rate of confiscated items varies. “In the highest monthly amount to date, Marten and I were responsible for confiscating 246 plant products (fruits, plants WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
and seeds), 56 animal products (usually fresh or processed meats and sometimes feathers and hides), and 4 propagative plants. Besides the canine team’s efforts, agriculture specialists inspect a certain percentage of passengers’ luggage at the x-ray machine, which is another tool to detect prohibited items,” said Sherwood. “One of Marten’s notable finds turned out to be 24 different types of plant species, including one kilogram of orchids for propagation from the Cayman Islands,” said Sherwood. “The entire orchid family, including all orchids native to the U.S. and its territories, is listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Most of the family is listed in Appendix II so that exports require a CITES permit. Several species are listed in the more restrictive Appendix I; this means that all imports and exports must be accompanied by a CITES permit. Orchids can be grown in nurseries using methods that are not harmful to wild populations, helping to satisfy the international demand for these beautiful plants and reducing collection pressure on wild populations, “ she said. “Another great find was propagative grade seeds from Hungary concealed in a beer can.” Sherwood’s “love of the environment” is most likely why she opted for her current position. And, “this probably stemmed from a childhood spent in Rhode Island, where my house was at the bottom of a hill, surrounded by a forest,” she said. “Each season of the year brought changing wonders, along with spotting numerous wildlife such as possums, chipmunks, bluebirds and robins and a rare sighting of a bobcat. In my teen years, we moved to San Diego, where I explored the mountains and canyons. ”Because of a degree in Early Childhood Development, I worked for a few years at Everglades National Park in the Environmental Education program for fifth and sixth grade classes visiting the park. I loved that so much, I decided to return to college to get my bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies. When I saw the job posting for the position I now hold, I was thrilled for the opportunity to actively work with one of my favorite animals, the dog, and to also help the environment at the same time,” said Sherwood. “Marten and I give public awareness demonstrations at local schools, the state fair and other events to give the message of “Don’t Pack a Pest” when traveling. We’re also happy to speak to passengers about the reasons we are taking away a prohibited item, educating them about the spread of invasive species,” she said. “Our working dogs are great welcoming ambassadors to our country and if it’s our day off, I’m told by co-workers that particular frequent travelers have asked, “Where’s the dog?” They look forward to seeing our detector dogs in action.” Sherwood encourages people planning to travel to visit the “Don’t Pack a Pest” program website: https://www.dontpackapest.com/ and the “Know Before You Go” site at: https:// www.cbp.gov/travel/us-citizens/know-before-you-go.
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Business Up Front MAYO FERTILIZER Farmers Helping Farmers By Jim Frankowiak
Layla Drawdy - General Manager
Mayo Fertilizer is a 3rd generation, privately owned, family business. The company was established in Mayo, Florida in 1957 by Leroy Odom, grandfather of Mike Shaw. Mike Shaw and his wife, Freda Shaw, are President, Vice President and owners of Mayo Fertilizer. Two of their three sons, Keith Shaw, married to Melissa, and Kody Shaw, married to Madison, are part of Mayo Fertilizer operations. Kyle Shaw, married to Darby, is an attorney. Their daughter, Keri Shaw Dykes, married to Tyler, works in the medical field. The Shaw’s have been blessed with nine grandchildren. In addition to being owners of a successful full service agricultural and farm supply distributorship, the Shaw family also farms over 1,000 acres of peanuts, corn and cotton depending on the season. “That provides a personal connection,” said Layla Drawdy, general manager of Mayo Fertilizer’s Plant City/Central Florida location. “We work for a family that cares about us and our customers and listens to us and understands the farm industry. This company is the Shaw’s livelihood and we are the company. They treat us like we aim to treat our customers and it means everything. That’s something that I feel is sadly missing from so many businesses in the world these days. That being said, the customer service experience with Mayo Fertilizer stands out along with the products we can stand behind. Our service is #1.” “With 12 locations covering south Georgia and the entire state of Florida, our company manufactures custom bulk, bagged and liquid fertilizers. We also supply wholesale raw fertilizer materials to most fertilizer manufacturers and dealers in Florida and south Georgia,” said Drawdy. “Mayo Fertilizer carries a wide and diverse line of crop protection ag chemicals, as well. We manufacture and package custom nutritional materials and offer a full line of field grass, cover crops and food plot seed.”
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“We are also rapidly growing a full line of horticultural and turf products for our nursery, turf and ornamental customers. We supply plastics, ground covers, soil medias and a full line of personal protective equipment. There isn’t a crop we don’t
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cover or aren’t willing to cover – from strawberries to cotton and industrial hemp, tropical fish to tree farms and pastures – when we say full service, we mean it,” she said. While Mayo Fertilizer may carry some of the same products customers find elsewhere, “we have tons of products they’ve probably never seen and there are so many that we have the ability to customize,” said Drawdy. “If we don’t have what they need, we will make it or get it for them. No one company is perfect, but we can promise that when we tell our customers we are going to take care of them, they can count on us. We work for them and we never forget that.” Drawdy oversees all operations at the Mayo Fertilizer Plant City location and she is also a sales representative, serving customers throughout Florida. “Sometimes I am out visiting customers, other times you may find me throwing fertilizer bags or operating a forklift in the warehouse. Whatever it takes to get the job done.” A Plant City native, Drawdy was born at MacDill Air Force Base and graduated from Plant City High School. She holds undergraduate accreditations from the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) campus at Plant City. Layla is married to Dustin Drawdy, a 3rd generation Florida freshwater tropical fish farmer. She is the mother of four sons and a daughter-in-law. William, 26, is a lineman for Tampa Electric, his wife Courtney, is 26 and a loan processor with Florida Mortgage Firm. Stephen, 22, is a supervisor for Publix Distribution. Dax is eight-years-old, a soon to be 3rd grade student at Knights Elementary, he is a baseball star and loves to fish, while Abel, 7, will soon enter the 2nd grade at Knights Elementary in route to becoming a philanthropist and loves to read. Drawdy started in the agricultural business 18 years ago with ProSource One as a counter sales person. “I met my mentor there, Jimmy Cross,” she said. “He taught me the ag business WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
and sales. I have been one of the very few female sales reps in the state of Florida for the past 14 years and Jimmy is still with me as an official intern at Mayo Fertilizer, and one of my best buddies. “I have had some of the same customers for 18 years and the list keeps growing. They are family and none of this would be possible without them. I am deeply grateful for God blessing me with such a wonderful opportunity. Every second of my entire career has been in some shape or form, a blessing. The good, the bad, the ugly, I am thankful for it all. Drawdy is quick to credit her amazing Plant City crew that includes: Brent Harbour, Sales Director; Todd Flick, Warehouse Manager; Amy Nelms, Office Administrator; Erik Ramirez, Transportation and Assistant Warehouse Manager; Octavio Trevino, Transportation; and Kevin Batman, Sales. “Mayo Fertilizer had no local presence until August of last year,” said Drawdy. “Against a lot of different odds we have managed to get the best job we could done, we make a great team, I am so proud of us. It’s truly amazing what can happen when you are supported and given the tools you need to get your job done. Not to mention being told that you’re doing a great job, it fuels our fire to do more and work harder.” “As always, nothing, not one thing, would be possible without God and His hand on us and this adventure. We are covered by His grace and we take every chance we can to thank Him and we work hard for His blessings,” said Drawdy.
For more information about Mayo Fertilizer, please visit: mayofertilizer.com, stop by the Plant City location, 2607 Sammonds Road or call: 813-730-7008. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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STRAWBERRY SEASON UNDERWAY WITH HIGH DEMAND; COMMITMENT TO WORKER HEALTH AND SAFETY AND QUEST FOR TRADE REMEDIES By Jim Frankowiak The 2020-2021 strawberry season is well underway with the industry “highly encouraged by consumer demand for and willingness to buy fresh fruits and vegetables,” said Florida Strawberry Growers Association Executive Director Kenneth Parker. “Some of this is driven by the global pandemic which has resulted in many families preparing and eating their meals at home and that has created a high demand for the availability of fresh produce. We have a strong market for our Florida grown fruits and vegetables. ”
with Mexico. Originally scheduled earlier this year in Florida and Georgia, due to the impact of the global pandemic these hearings are taking place this month in a virtual setting. Florida seasonal produce growers have been given the opportunity to address the U.S. Department of Commerce and Trump Administration regarding the urgent need for federal action on unfair foreign trade. “ Hopefully, USTR Robert Lighthizer will – as a result of these sessions --develop and submit a plan to that will help remedy this situation,” said Parker.
But the industry has its challenges as well. “We must protect our workplace and the safety and health of our workers at all times, but especially during this global pandemic,” said Parker. The industry is working closely with experts at the University of Florida (UF) and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) to receive their cohesive guidance as it applies to workers associated with all specialty crops. “This is a dynamic situation and we are fortunate to have the ongoing support of both UF and FDACS,” said Parker. “We must maintain a healthy workforce.”
Florida specialty crop farmers are concerned with USMCA, which went into effect July 1, just as they were with NAFTA and renegotiation attempts with NAFTA in 2018. Neither offered protections against unfair trade practices that have hurt Florida specialty crops growers for decades.
That workforce, comprised of agricultural workers recruited in select foreign countries for temporary work here, is both vital and costly. “Simply put, we have no other options at this time if we are to meet the strong demand for our fresh fruits and vegetables and assure the viability of our industry going forward.”
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Another ongoing challenge that seasonal producers have faced for years is being addressed this month through several virtual field hearings organized by the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and U.S. Department of Commerce regarding unfair produce trade
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The impact of this situation is well depicted in a recently released FDACS report that details how imported produce from Mexico has caused serious harm to Florida’s seasonal produce industry with more than $3.7 billion in losses since 2000. The report notes that Mexico has expanded its share of the U.S. domestic market by 551 percent over the past two decades, while Florida’s market share has dropped by 40 percent. Florida agriculture has also lost more than 37,000 jobs due to unfair foreign trade practices by Mexican importers, while Mexico’s seasonal crop imports have increased 271 percent since 2000. Yes, there is high demand for Florida grown fruits and vegetables, but let’s not overlook the challenges that must be addressed so the state’s specialty crop producers can compete equitably with competitive products from Mexico. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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Tampa Bay Fishing Report September 2020 Capt. Woody Gore
August was a scorcher with humidity constantly in the 90s, but we’re still fishing and believe it or not catching fish. While it’s key to pick the right tide days for the most part, even if you miss by an hour or two, the bite is still reasonably consistent. Warm summer waters make fish a little lazy. However, if you’re one of those night owls that enjoy fishing with the mosquitoes, now is the time. When fishing at night, the waters cool somewhat, and they seem to become a little more active. Many summer anglers find nighttime fishing enjoyable and, provided the mosquitoes don’t carry you off, the fishing is relatively productive. Greenbacks tend to run a little small this time of year, but deeper grass flats and heavier chumming might still bring in some decent fishable sardines. However, large greenbacks are not always the answer to the inshore bite. Many charter captains refer to it as matching the hatch, and for a good reason. The fish tend to eat what’s available. So if its small baits you’re netting, guess what the fish are feeding upon? And remember, you don’t need to blackout the live well, you only need enough for fishing.
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Capt. Woody Gore (www.captainwoodygore.com)
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With water temperatures in the high 80s to low 90s, the trick is keeping your bait alive. Therefore, you must appreciate that less bait consumes less oxygen, and for this reason, ‘less is more.’ Here’s a tip: buy an inexpensive swimming pool thermometer to keep in your livewell.
Next, freeze several one-gallon bottles of water and keep them in your cooler. When your live well temperatures soar into the 90s, add a sealed plastic container of water to the livewell to bring the heat down. If you’re looking for some lively mackerel action, threadfins are no problem, and throwing a ten-foot, ¾ to 1-inch net should get all you need. You’ll find big schools all over the bay in deeper water. Mackerel also take small silver spoons fished under and behind a popping cork. I say behind because if you need to, make some noise with the cork. Make sure to have sufficient leaders behind the popper (at least 36 inches). Seaguar 50 to 60 pound works for me except when a small blacktip shark decides to strike. If the sharks become a problem, go to 85-pound Seaguar and long shank inexpensive hooks. Another tip about handling sharks; just because their not six-foot-long, don’t think the smaller ones are a cakewalk. Despite their size, small sharks can be extremely unsafe and very flexible; they are dangerous if you do not know how to handle them properly. Simply grabbing one by the tail could result in a nasty bite if you’re not careful. If you must handle them, grasp it firmly behind the head while controlling the rear with your other hand.
Snook-Redfish-Trout (Still Catch &
Release Only) Fishing should begin returning to normal as the temperatures ease up somewhat. It’s still going to be WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
hot, but perhaps the humidity will lighten some. Night fishing will produce good catches of Snook, Redfish, and Trout around structure, especially lighted docks. Work any topwater lure through the light line and hang on. Live shrimp and greenbacks free-lined or under a popping cork always work fishing around the mangroves and in sandy potholes on the grass flats.
Cobia fishing should continue as they travel around the flats with large rays, sharks, or manatees. Toss your bait or lure near the fish and it’s usually fish on. They’re not picky about what they eat; just get it close and make it move. They also frequent channel markers and channel buoys, especially those holding schools of greenbacks or threadfins. Hang a chum block over the side, and if they’re close, they’ll come. Tarpon anglers will find them
moving into Tampa Bay and around the bridges. Bridge tar-
Mackerel offers some outstanding light tackle action. Tampa Bay’s full of big mackerel, just drift or anchor around feeding or diving birds, toss out whitebaits or threadfins, or live shrimp and hang on. Snapper getting good catches reported around almost any structure, especially around the full moon. Pick any artificial reef, rock pile, pilings, or marker, find some small greenbacks or shrimp, a # 1 hook, a 20-pound Seaguar fluorocarbon leader, ¼ ounce egg sinker or larger (depending on the current) make a knocker rig and have fun. Limit catches reported around the bay with some weighing 3 to 6 pounds but most average around 1 to 2 pounds.
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing”
813-477-3814
Captain Woody Gore’s Guide Service: The area’s top-notch outdoor fishing guide service. He’s guided and fished the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tarpon Springs, Bradenton, and Sarasota areas for over fifty years and offers first-class customer service, outstanding fishing adventures and a lifetime of memories. Single Boat, Multi-Boat and Group Charters: With years of organizational experience and access to the areas most experienced captains, Captain Woody can arrange and coordinate any size group, outing, or tournament.
Visit his website at www.captainwoodygore.com or send an email to fishing@captainwoodygore. com or give him a call at 813-477-3814.
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pon is always fun, and threadfins, crabs, and bigger white baits tossed directly into their path should do the trick. Pick a bridge with a good light-line at night and sight cast them.
WE ARE HERE WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER WE ARE EVERGLADES EQUIPMENT GROUP
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*Photo courtesy of our St. Cloud team. Stop in and say hi!
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• Besides meat and milk, cows provide us with hundreds of important by-products. Almost the entire beef animal can be used in some way. From a typical 1,000 pound steer, slightly over 40% of the animal is used for retail beef and the remaining 60% is processed into by-products. • Beef hide and hair are used for insulation, paintbrushes, glue for bookmaking and band-aides, clothes, shoes, luggage, saddles, furniture, automobiles, volleyballs, basketballs, and baseball gloves. • Fats and fatty acids are used for shampoo, shaving creams, deodorants, candles, crayons, floor wax, detergents, hydraulic brake fluid, plastics, insecticides, paints, perfumes, and synthetic rubber. • Bone, horn, hooves, and gelatin are used for combs, gelatin candy (Gummy Bears), photographic film, steel ball bearings, fine bone china, pet food, and vitamin capsules/gel coatings. • The salivary glands of cattle, located beneath the tongue, produce 15-20 gallons of saliva per day. • The average cow has more than 40,000 jaw movements per day. • The United States is the largest producer of beef in the world followed by Brazil & the European Union. • The United States, Brazil and the European Union produce almost half of the world’s beef. • The United States produces roughly 19% of the world’s beef.
With every generation,
we get better at protecting our environment. Reclamation ecologists like Ashlee work to return mined lands to productive use as wildlife habitats, public parks and more—so future generations can enjoy these lands for years to come.
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Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the August 2015 issue I was lying around one Sunday afternoon pondering about the problems of the world, and I realized that at my age I am getting to the point where I really didn’t give a rip any more. They tell us what is good and bad for us. They say to lose weight. Well, a whale swims all day, only eats fish, but is still fat. They say to exercise every day. A rabbit runs and hops and only lives 15 years, while a gopher doesn’t run and does mostly nothing, yet it lives for about 150 years. Exercise…I don’t think so. Now that I am drawing a Social Security check each month, here is what I have discovered, it was a whole lot easier to get older than it was to get wiser. I don’t remember being absent-minded. My wild oats are mostly enjoyed with prunes and all-bran. It’s not really hard to meet expenses…they are everywhere. And, I started out with nothing, and I still have most of it. They say to read and do crossword puzzles to keep your brain sharp. Here are five riddles that I was just able to pass. Let’s see how you do with them. A murderer is condemned death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first room is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven’t eaten in three years. Which room is the safest? Second, in 1955 a woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him underwater for over five minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But, tenminutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How could this happen? Third riddle! What is black when you buy it, and grey when you throw it away? Four. Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Wednesday, Friday or Sunday. The fifth riddle. This is an unusual paragraph. I’m curious as just how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it. It looks so ordinary and plain that you would think nothing was wrong with it. In fact, you still may not find anything odd, but if you work at it a bit, you’ll find out. Try to do so without any coaching!
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Now that you have read through the riddles several times here are the right ANSWERS. The third room is the right answer because the lions haven’t eaten in three years they are dead. Number two: The woman was a photographer. She shot a picture of her husband, developed it, (holding it under water) and hung it up to dry. Three: Charcoal, as it is used for barbecuing. Four: “Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow.” Five: The letter “e” which is the most common letter used in the English language, does not appear one time in the paragraph.
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Mac Smith sent me an email the other day that pretty much sums up us senior citizens. He said we walk a little slower and our eyes and hearing are not what they once were. We worked hard, raised our children, worshiped our God and together we grew old. Yes, we are the ones some refer to as being over the hill, and that is probably true, but before writing us off completely, there are a few things that need to be taken into consideration. In school we studied English, history, math and science, which enabled us to lead America into the technological age. Most of us remember what outhouses were, many of us with firsthand experience. We remember the days of telephone party lines, 25-cent gasoline, and milk and ice being delivered to our house. For those of you who don’t know what an ice box is, today they are electric and referred to as a refrigerator. A few of us even remember when cars were started with a crank. Don’t write us off yet! We won World War II, fought in Korea and Viet Nam. We can quote the Pledge of Allegiance, and know where to place our hand while doing so. We even know the words to the Star Spangled Banner, America and America the Beautiful by heart. Lately I’ve noticed the stairs are getting steeper, and the groceries heavier. The other day I walked to the corner and I was surprised to discover how long our street has become. People are less considerate now, especially the youngsters. They whisper all the time. On the other hand, people my own age are so much older than I am. I ran into an old friend of mine the other day, and she had aged so much that she didn’t even recognize me. An elderly couple down the street had an interesting problem last week. Johnny finally got around to varnishing their wooden toilet seat while his wife was shopping at Felton’s Food Mart. She came in and undressed to take a shower. Before getting in the shower, she sat down on the toilet. As she tried to stand up she realized that the not-quite-dry epoxy varnish paint had glued her rear end to the toilet seat. He heard her yelling, and ran to the toilet immediately realizing her predicament. They both pushed and pulled without any success what so ever. Finally in desperation he took the toilet seat off, wrapped a sheet around her, and drove her to the hospital emergency room. The ER Doctor got her into a position where he could figure out how to free her. His wife tried to lighten the embarrassment of it all by saying, “Well, Doctor, I’ll bet you’ve never seen anything like this before.” The Doctor replied, “Actually, I’ve seen lots of them….I just never saw one mounted and framed.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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FLORIDIANS ASKED TO REPORT
SUSPICIOUS SEED PACKETS FROM CHINA By Jim Frankowiak
Washington State Department of Agriculture The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) has issued a warning about unsolicited packages of seeds received through the mail. The seed packets typically arrive unexpectedly in packages bearing Chinese characters. They may bear the name China Post and may be labeled as jewelry. Receipt of such packages has been reported in multiple states across the United States.
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FDACS has thus far received 160 reports from Florida residents who have received the suspicious seed packages with the contents unknown at present. The introduction of plant seeds into the U.S. is regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Seeds of unknown origin may constitute agricultural smuggling, may be invasive, may introduce pathogens, toxins or plant and animal diseases, may pose a risk of foodborne illness and may pose a threat to plants, animal and human health.
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FDACS is working closely with the UDSA Animal Health and Inspection Service (APHIS), the lead regulatory body on this issue, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection for guidance. Seed packet recipients are urged not to open them, not to plant the seeds and limit contact with the packages and contents. They are also encouraged to report received packages to FDACS Division of Plant Industry at 1-888-397-15-7 or via email: DPIhelpline@FDACS.gov. The seed package should also be reported APHIS Anti-Smuggling Hotline at 1-800877-3835 or by email: SITC.Mail@aphis.usda.gov. Both reports should be filed as quickly as possible and include the seed packet recipient’s name, physical address, phone number and email address for any follow-up contact.
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ADDITIONAL COMMODITIES ADDED TO CORONAVIRUS FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAM By Jim Frankowiak
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) had added additional commodities to the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) along with other program adjustments based on comments received from agricultural producers and organizations and a review of market data. Producers can now submit applications that include the new commodities and USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) will accept applications through August 28, 2020 for CFAP, which helps offset price declines and additional marketing costs attributable to the pandemic. USDA anticipates expanding the list of additional eligible commodities over the coming weeks.
Changes to CFAP include:
• Adding the following commodities: alfalfa sprouts, anise, arugula, basil, bean sprouts, beets, blackberries, Brussel sprouts, celeriac (celery root), chives, cilantro, coconuts, collard greens, dandelion greens, greens (others not listed separately), guava, kale greens, lettuce – including Boston, green leaf, Lolla Rossa, oak leaf green, oak leaf red and red leaf – marjoram, mint, mustard, okra, oregano, parsnips, passion fruit, peas (green), pineapple, pistachios, radicchio, rosemary, sage, savory, sorrel, fresh sugarcane, Swiss chard, thyme and turnip top greens. • Expanded seven currently eligible commodities – apples, blueberries, garlic, potatoes, raspberries, tangerines and taro – CARES Act funding for sales losses because USDA found these commodities had a 5 percent or greater price decline between mid-January and midApril as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Originally, these commodities were only eligible for marketing adjustments. • Determined that peaches and rhubarb no longer qualify for payment under the CARES Act sales loss category. • Corrected payment rates for apples, artichokes, asparagus, blueberries, cantaloupes, cucumbers, garlic, kiwifruit, mushrooms papaya, peaches, potatoes, raspberries, rhubarb, tangerines and taro. Additional details can be found in the Federal Register, Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) and Final Rule Correction, as well as at www.farmers.gov.cfap, which also offers assistance with the preparation of applications. New CFAP customers may receive one-on-one support by calling 877-508-864. Assistance is also available by scheduling an appointment at the USDA Service Center, 201 South Collins Street. Telephone: 813/752-1474.
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Chad Chronister
THE HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE INVESTIGATED
17 CASES OF ILLEGAL DUMPING
DURING THE MONTH OF JULY. THIS RESULTED IN FIVE FELONY ARRESTS. Within the first full week of July, three men were arrested for Felony Littering.
“Any amount over 100 cubic feet dumped is considered a felony here in the state of Florida,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “I want to thank our Environmental Enforcement Unit for their diligence in identifying and locating these individuals who are illegally dumping on or near roadways in Hillsborough County.” Under Florida State Statute 403.413, it is illegal to dump, discard, place, throw, dispose, or deposit any rubbish, waste, or trash onto any property (private or public) without consent. Fines associated with Felony Littering can cost an offender anywhere between $100-$500. Restitution payments are also typically issued to cover the cost of the investigation and proper disposal of the debris illegally dumped.
On July 7, 2020, a concerned citizen reported illegal dumping in the area of West Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and South Parson Avenue in Seffner. The citizen witnessed two suspects driving in a truck, pulling a trailer field with furniture, couches, televisions and plastic materials. The suspects stopped the vehicle near a large dumpster, which was almost completely filled. They removed the tie-down straps, and at this time, the property manager confronted the two men, who drove away. 174 cubic feet of debris fell to the ground behind them and deputies were called to the scene. The HCSO Environmental Enforcement Unit was able to obtain video of the incident and later identified the two suspects as Jessie Howard, 26, and Allyn Morrison, 36. Morrison is a convicted felon. The two men were charged with Felony Littering. In that same week, another suspect was seen illegally dumping on July 9, near the intersection of Edina Street and Aley Street in Wimauma. Again, the suspect was driving a truck to haul furniture, boxes, styrofoam, tree debris and plastic materials. The suspect, identified as Carlton Williams, 59, illegally dumped 506 cubic feet of materials. Through investigative means, the HCSO Environmental Enforcement Unit identified Williams’ vehicle and an arrest warrant was obtained. Williams was arrested for Felony Littering.
NORTHWEST COUNTY LANDFILL 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave. Tampa, FL 33625 SOUTHEAST COUNTY LANDFILL 15960 C.R. 672 Lithia, FL 33547 NORTHWEST COUNTY LANDFILL 8001 W. Linebaugh Ave. Tampa, FL 33625 13000 U.S. Hwy. 41 Gibsonton, FL 33534 350 N. Falkenburg Rd. Tampa, FL 33619 In addition to these locations, there are Community Collection Centers around the county, which can be utilized by citizens for disposal. For more information, please visit www.hillsboroughcounty.org. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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There are several locations in Hillsborough County where citizens can dispose of appliances and other items they no longer need or want:
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CLEAN WATERWAYS ACT
AND NOTEWORTHY BMP CHANGES
By Jim Frankowiak
The Clean Waterways Act, which is also known as Florida Senate Bill 712 (2020), is now law following its signing by Governor Ron DeSantis. The bill addresses agriculture, using bio-solids as fertilizer, regulation of septic tanks, wastewater treatment systems, enhanced penalties and other requirements. It is part of the governor’s multibillion-dollar plan to improve Florida’s water quality.
ern Everglades Estuaries Protection Area, which includes Lake Okeechobee, the Indian River Lagoon, as well as the Caloosahatchee and St. Lucie rivers. Silver Springs is a priority among spring areas in the state. We will prioritize resources in these areas, but will continue to look statewide because we have BMAPs throughout Florida.” Locally, BMAPs include the Alafia River Basin and Hillsborough River Basin.
The new law brings several noteworthy changes to Florida’s agricultural best management practices (BMP) program that is administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). The first, according to Kim Shugar, deputy director, Office of Agricultural Water Policy (OAWP) for FDACS, focuses on record keeping. “FDACS is now required to collect and retain growers’ nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizer application records,” she said. Previously, FDACS reviewed the records of growers enrolled in the BMP program, but record maintenance was the responsibility of growers. “FDACS is now required to provide fertilizer information from the retained fertilizer records to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) on a basin level to inform basin management action plan (BMAP) analysis,” said Shugar. She also noted that those records that are retained by FDACS during an implementation verification site visit remain protected by the public records exemption in state law regarding agricultural production.
A BMAP is the “blueprint” for restoring impaired waters by reducing pollutant loadings to meet the allowable loadings established in a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). It represents a comprehensive set of strategies – permit limits on wastewater facilities, urban and agricultural BMPs, conservation programs, financial assistance and revenue generating activities and other considerations – designed to implement the pollutant reductions established by the TMDL. BMAPs are developed with local stakeholders, their inputs and commitments, which are then adopted by Secretarial Order to be enforceable.
The other major change that is included in the new law is “how we conduct our implementation verification site visits,” she said. “This is where we meet with the producers who are participating in the program to review their records and inspect their farms to ensure BMPs are being implemented properly. Under the new law, we are now required to conduct these visits every two years.” Prior to passage of the new law Shugar said most farms were inspected very four to five years. Although the new law applies statewide, “the legislature laid out priority areas,” Shugar said. “The lawmakers identified the BMAPs as a priority and also identified specific BMAP areas to focus on during the first year. One of those areas is the North-
“We work closely with the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) and other research institutions to be certain our manuals are updated and provide guidance to growers on the proper agronomic rates for the crops covered,” said Shugar.
The new law also requires FDACS to update BMP manuals regularly to reflect the latest knowledge and research. The cattle manual will be the first updated followed by sod and citrus. Other BMP manuals cover poultry, dairies, equine, vegetable and agronomic crop, specialty fruit and nut and nurseries.
FDACS has mailed letters and supporting documents that relate to the new law to producers enrolled in the BMP program. The letter provides detail regarding the new requirements and how OAWP will implement them, grower technical resources, as well as encouraging prompt responses for this overall collaborative effort.
Growers with questions are encouraged to email agbmphelp@fdacs.gov. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
FLORIDA FARM BUREAU ANNUAL MEETING TO BE VIRTUAL
The Florida Farm Bureau Federation will be virtual this year in the best interest of members and their families. The business meeting will be held via Zoom on Thursday, October 22, and all Young Farmer and Rancher (YF & R) competitions and the Youth Speech Contest will be also be held virtually earlier in the week. Additional information will be forthcoming.
CHOICE HOTELS OFFER SAVINGS TO FARM BUREAU MEMBERS
Florida Farm Bureau members can save up to 20 percent at nearly 7,000 Choice Hotels worldwide. Call 800-258-2847 or visit ChoiceHotels.com to make reservations. Use the Special Rate ID 00209540 to receive your discount, which only apply to advance reservations not walk-ins.
DISTRICT RECEIVES FUNDING FOR NEW WATER QUALITY MONITORING WELL
MASTER GARDENER VOLUNTEERS INTRODUCE BOOK TO HELP YOUTH GROW UP “FLORIDA FRIENDLY”
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) has received funding from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for a new, 880-foot deep monitoring well in the District’s Most Impact Area (MIA) of the Southern Water Use Caution Area (SWUCA) in Hillsborough County.
Florida grade school children can now learn the nine principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping ™ (FFL) – guidelines that help yards thrive and protect Florida’s waterways – from a new book written and illustrated by two Florida Master Gardener Volunteers.
District scientists will use data collected from the new well to better assess aquifer system dynamics, enhance groundwater monitoring and determine potential water withdrawalrelated impacts to the SWUCA and MIA.
“Growing Up Florida-Friendly” follows Flory, an orange blossom, on a journey through the nine FFL principles – Right Plant, Right Place; Water Efficiently; Fertilize Appropriately; Mulch; Attract Wildlife, Manager Yard Pests Responsibly; Recycle, Reduce Storm Water Runoff and Protect the Waterfront.
FARM BUREAU MEMBERS OFFERED RENTAL CAR SAVINGS Farm Bureau membership offers a range of benefits. Among those are reduced rental car rates of up to 30 percent. Enterprise, Alamo, National, Budget and AVIS auto rental companies offer Farm Bureau members savings on rental cars. Enterprise, Alamo and National offer savings of up to 20 percent with discounts depending on location. To take advantage use Contract ID: 6020214 or book online through partners.rentalcar.com/florida-farm-bureau. Budget and AVIS feature savings up to 30 percent, again varying by location. For reserving through Budget, use Contract ID: Y775709 or book online through Budget.com/FLFB. The AVIS Contact ID is A298809 or online at AVIS.com/FLFB. SUNBELT AG EXPO CANCELED The Board of the Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition has voted to cancel the 43rd annual show that was scheduled for October 20-22, 2020. Plans for the 2020 Swisher Sweets/Sunbelt Ag Expos Southeastern Farmer of the Year winner are to be released soon. UF RELEASES NEW GUIDE TO RAISING BACKYARD CHICKENS Among varied responses to COVID-19 is the desire among select consumers to produce more of their food at home. Some began to purchase baby chicks that would grow up to produce eggs fresh from the backyard. The University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) has published a new guide to raising backyard chickens for eggs, available in hard copy from the UF/IFAS Extension bookstore – http://ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1545-raising-backyardchickens-for-eggs.aspx - or as a free download at https:// edis.ifas.ufl.edu/an239.
COVID-19 RESOURCE PAGE AT FLORIDAFARMBUREAU.ORG Florida Farm Bureau has developed a COVID-19 Resources website page, which includes a variety of agricultural and state and federal links related to the pandemic. Content is continuously updated and can be accessed at https://floridafarmbureau.org/covid-19-resources/. USDA TO LAUNCH THIRD ROUND OF FARMERS TO FAMILIES FOOD BOX PROGRAM The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced launching of a third round of the Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases with distribution to take place September 1 through October 31, 2020. Purchases during this round will spend the balance of $3 billion authorized for the program which has thus far delivered more than 46 million boxes. In this third round, USDA plans to purchase combination boxes to ensure all recipient organizations have access to fresh produce, dairy products, fluid milk and meat products. Eligibility will be open to entities who can meet the government’s requirements and specifications with proposals expected to illustrate how coverage will be provided to areas identified as opportunity zones, detail subcontracting and delivery to the food insecure population. Additional information about the third round of food box purchasing is available at www.usda.gov/farmers-to-families. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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The 58-page, fully illustrated book provides an interactive opportunity between teachers and students or can be used as a stand-alone resource. Individual copies may be purchased via ifasbooks.ifas.ufl.edu/p-1538-growing-up-florida-friendly. aspx. Those seeking to purchase more than 25 copies of the book are directed to call 800-226-1764 or visit ifasbooks@ifas. ufl.edu for discount information.
Celebrating a most fruitful relationship
between Florida Strawberry Growers and International Paper.
1979
Together we’re sure to enjoy many more years of sweet success.
711 E. Lancaster Rd Orlando, FL 32809 (407) 855-2121
1996
2402 Police Center Dr Plant City, FL 33566 (813) 717-9100 6706 N. 53rd St Tampa, FL 33610 (813) 744-2220 Sales: Dean Fultz (901) 355-5197 or Jim Johnson (813) 205-0355
2001
2003
Present
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©2018 International Paper Company. All rights reserved.
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FLorida
Mangosteen By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science
Florida is the only state in the United States that can grow and harvest fresh mangosteen. Mangosteen is a tropical fruit that requires a hot, humid climate for optimal growth. Native to Indonesia and Malaysia, mangosteen is grown mainly in Southeast Asia, India, Puerto Rico, and Florida. This prized fruit is juicy, sweet, and tangy, and about the size of a tangerine. A leathery dark red shell surrounds the juicy, fragrant white flesh. The edible fruit surrounds the seeds which are almond-shaped.
the seeds. Any easy way to remove the shell is to make a shallow cut around the diameter of the fruit with a paring knife, then twist off the top and remove. The fruit can be stored at room temperature for several days or refrigerated for up to several weeks. Do not wash until immediately before use.
How to Enjoy
Fresh Florida mangosteen is not only a delicious tropical treat, but is also quite nutritious. According to the USDA, one fresh mangosteen (76g) serving contains 55 calories, 14 g of carbohydrate, 1.4 g of fiber, 0.4 g of fat, and 0.3 g of protein. It also contains 12% of your daily requirement for vitamin C, 1.3% for iron, 1% for calcium, 0.5% for vitamin A.
Fresh mangosteen is delicious eaten out-of-hand. This fruit can also be used in salads, juices, cocktails, or even lend a sweet flavor to savory dishes. Other ways to enjoy this nutritious tropical fruit include: • Toss into any fruit or vegetable salad • Puree into a sorbet or ice cream • Use as a garnish • Stir into yogurt or mix into cereal Fresh Florida mangosteen is a tropical delight during the summer season.
Vitamin C
SELECTED REFERENCES
A single serving of mangosteen contains 12% of your daily needs for vitamin C! This vitamin is needed for growth and repair of all tissues in your body, including skin, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. It helps your body maintain healthy cartilage, bones, and teeth, as well as promotes wound healing. Vitamin C also helps you absorb iron better. There is some research to support that vitamin C may also reduce the duration and severity of the common cold.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/ http://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu
NUTRITIONAL PROFILE
Vitamin A Vitamin A in the form of beta-carotene is essential for optimal eye health and can help prevent night-blindness. This antioxidant also plays a role in immunity by supporting the white blood cells in fighting infections. This vitamin is also involved in hearing, taste, and normal fetal development. Broccoli is considered an excellent source of this important nutrient. Both vitamin A and vitamin C also have anti-inflammatory properties that make them helpful for protecting against conditions such as asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, where inflammation plays a big role.
How to Select and Store Choose fresh mangosteen with a deep purple shell that yields to a gentle squeeze. A hard mangosteen is unripe. Remove the shell and then separate the inner white flesh, removing INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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TURNING TO GARDENING DURING A PANDEMIC
One local family decided to test their green thumb when the rise of COVID-19 throughout the country led to many sheltering at home.
By Breanne Williams While most have spent the majority of this pandemic cruising through their watchlists and binging seasons of the latest television hits, one family in Plant City channeled their time into a different hobby. Juan Alvarez started a small garden — just a handful of rows — last year with his family. They went and picked out some plants that had already been seeded and taken root and placed them along three or four rows. The harvest was mediocre, the lessons were many, but the passion had ignited. The rapid spread of COVID-19 throughout the country caused many to be out of work or working from home for months at a time. Children were home from school and kitchen tables were turned into makeshift classrooms. It was more time than most families had ever had the chance to spend together and Alvarez said he wanted to make sure they made this opportunity count. “I wanted to have a project that the kids and wife and I could work on as a family and knowing we would be home because of COVID I really wanted do something really cool that was still productive,” Alvarez said. “I thought about the garden and decided to kind of expand it and make it something totally new. I started drawing up the plans and presented it to the wife and kids and they loved the idea so we got to work.” Having never really done anything of this scale before the first step was to dive into research. Alvarez combed the internet for advice and brushed up on the latest trends. He sat down with his family and made a list of produce that they loved to eat and cook with as well as a few they were unfamiliar with but wanted to try. Then he figured out which ones “played nice” together — not every plant is friendly with its neighbor after all — and did further research on the best ways to get a seed to sprout.
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Alvarez is a designer by trade and the aesthetic of the layout was as much part of the thrill as watching that first green stem poke its head above the dirt and reach for the sun. His prior gardening attempt had been short, but he had learned a lot. He knew this time around he wanted something that allowed each section to be easily reached while still having enough room for everything to grow in peace.
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A design began to form in his mind, one with a central bed and four L-shaped corners. Each individual plot would be confined to a homemade raised bed with paths running through each side. He joked that he actually designed a floorpan of not just the beds, but also where each individual plant would end up going. Because the economy of the nation and the income of nearly every house in the country was up in the air thanks to the start of the pandemic, being cost effective was a top priority for Alvarez and his wife Joy. Luckily the family had a tiller so turning the grassy backyard into a cultivated plot was a breeze. Lots of people had begun making standing gardens or large elevated beds using a variety of lumber and plywood. In an effort to avoid unnecessary costs, Alvarez and his son Johnathan headed to Lowes and grabbed the basics. Quality soil was a top priority so Alvarez designed the plots to sit up off of the ground in a rolling mound. He and Johnathan grabbed bags of soil as well as the seeds they were hoping to later harvest and headed home to bring the dream to life. “We weren’t too sure on how the process worked because we really hadn’t ever sewn the seeds ourselves before,” Alvarez said. “We did our research and it ended up being a really cool process. It required a lot of little containers and we looked at each package and how long they needed to sew. One day we all sat down as a family and just planted them and watered them and spent a lot of time together getting all of them ready. We weren’t sure what was going to happen, so we gave it a few days in the water and once we started to see the stems come up we knew we were ready to get them in the ground.” The family reached out to the owners of Krazy Kup, a beloved coffee house in Plant City, and struck a partnership to add an extra special element to their garden. Krazy Kup gives Alvarez old coffee grinds and he in turn puts them in the garden to help his produce grow. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Soon broccoli, eggplant, swiss chard, kale, carrots, watermelon and a variety of other delectable treats began springing to life all over their garden. Alvarez, Joy and Johnathan work to tend to the fragile and exciting produce and then his daughter, Julia, sweeps around the beds as the harvest queen. “I’d recommend this to anyone who’s thinking about trying,” Alvarez said. “I think it’s really cool to see something grow from a little seed to become this huge sunflower or plant that’s heavy with vegetables. I would definitely do it again. I’m already planning my next garden and I’m getting ready to put some pumpkins and other vegetables in for the fall.” On top of being a cathartic way for the family to unwind, the harvest has helped them try new things, explore unfamiliar recipes and cut down on their shopping in the store. The harvest is still slow so while they still find themselves picking things up in the produce section the items are now more to accentuate the freshly picked bounty starting to fill their shelves. The more they learn, the more plentiful future harvests will be and Alvarez said they’re all looking forward to seeing how far this adventure can take them. “It was a great way for us to spend the afternoons together when it’s not so hot so we all come outside and weed and check the plants to see their progress,” Alvarez said. “And my daughter loves harvesting, it’s definitely her favorite part so we get to enjoy those moments. There’s other benefits too, especially for my son. He’s a Boy Scout and this helped him with that, he earned his Gardening Merit Badge through this. We try to do as much as we can with the family and this ended up being a great way for us all to be together and doing something productive.”
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Creative Cacti
By Libby Hopkins When some women age, they become a bit crazed. Some become “the crazy cat lady” or “the crazy dog lady.” I’ve become “the crazy plant lady.” I do have a dog that I’m crazy about, but I recently have acquired a ton of little succulent plants and cacti. When I stumbled upon Crystal Desilet’s Cactus Moon Instagram page, I immediately became entranced by how she can creatively incorporate succulents and cacti into so many things! Desilet is a succulent florist and a cacti and succulent specialist living in Tampa. A key influence on her botanical background was her grandmother, who is a Master Gardener herself and has always taken a keen interest in succulents. “She has an extensive collection of rare succulents and many are older than me,” Desilet said. “Naturally, my passion for the art and science of succulent care certainly sprouts from a place of generational inspiration. It is very important for me to share my knowledge with others and I hope by doing so, I can spark a passion for gardening in those that come to my workshops or attend my markets.”
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Desilet’s career path took a turn when she realized that her passion was plants. “My background and career for many decades was as an event planner,” Desilet said. “In previous years, I had a successful business doing much of what I do now. Despite my successes, I took a step back to pursue larger event planning opportunities and clients. I decided to keep my unique floral affinity as a more personal hobby than
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a business. In 2016, I felt as though the time had come to start turning passion into profit once more and I founded Cactus Moon, a new brand with fresh ideas and more ambition. This time around, I not only sold my unique living arrangements but also began adding workshops, classes, custom orders, built an online store and offered more extensive landscaping concepts.” If you ask Desilet what makes Cactus Moon different from other succulent businesses in the Tampa Bay area, she’ll tell you it’s her own passion for what she does. “If there’s anything that separates Cactus Moon from our contemporaries, its true passion and experience,” Desilet said. “Not only my personal experience, but also the experience held by my family. Growing up with a Master Gardener in the family is a unique opportunity of which I’m glad I took advantage. I mean, that’s decades of knowledge just a phone call away. For me, the wealth of knowledge I’ve not only accrued myself but that’s been passed down has translated into a code of ethics I implement in my business. I do my best to use sustainable, recycled or upcycled materials for the vessels in which I plant. I never sell something that I know won’t survive and I set each and every one of my clients up for success with their arrangements or installations by providing detailed care instructions, YouTube tutorials and the opportunity to contact me any time with questions they may have. My dad is a geologist, so I grew up living sustainably, recycling everything and learned that everything can have a second life and be reused into something else.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
The pandemic did have an affect on Cactus Moon. “At first, COVID-19 almost felt like a death-blow,” Desilet said. “I mean, one week I’m hosting three workshops and going out for brunch and the next thing you know everything is cancelled. I had just entered into a partnership with World of Beer, providing monthly workshops at their four Tampa locations. We only made it through two before the pandemic changed everything.” Desilet was resilient and turned things around for her business. “The first couple of weeks were honestly pretty terrifying, but, rather than succumbing to the stress of adversity, I decided to make some adjustments on the fly, evolve a little and adapt to our new and hopefully temporary normal,” Desilet said. “I realized that there was no way that my family were the only ones stuck at home with nothing to do, so I began offering DIY succulent arrangement kits. They were a huge hit. Offering free contact-less delivery to most Tampa residents and a variety of shipping options, I had orders flying in from all over the United States. March 2020 stands as the most profitable month I’ve had so far with my business. The great thing about Cactus Moon is the customer loyalty I’ve experienced, and I can’t even begin to tell you how happy it makes me to start recognizing names of people ordering more plants from me, or to open up my phone to a text from a recent client looking to fill up their home with more living arrangements.” Cactus Moon partners almost exclusively with small local businesses. “My workshops are often held at local breweries and restaurants,” Desilet said. “I hold Succulent Saturday at AR Workshop Tampa every third Saturday and I use my platform with the West Tampa Market to put a spotlight on all kinds of different up-and-coming small businesses in Tampa Bay.”
CURRENT FARM BUREAU MEMBER BENEFITS The following Florida Farm Bureau member benefits are now available: GRASSHOPPER Attention Florida Farm Bureau members! Make your yard the place to be this summer with a 15% discount on a new Grasshopper Mower! Just show your current membership card at your local Grasshopper dealer to save today: https://bit.ly/FFBGrasshopper SEATOW Since 1983, Sea Tow has been the on-water assistance fleet of choice for boaters everywhere. When signing up for or renewing an annual Sea Tow membership, Florida Farm Bureau members get two additional months free – that’s 14 months of worry-free boating for the price of 12! Visit http://bit.ly/FFBSeaTow to learn more. AVIS/BUDGET Need a change of scenery? Hit the road with a rental from AVIS or Budget and receive up to 30% off! Use your Farm Bureau member discount code → https:// bit.ly/FFBAVIS or https://bit.ly/FFBBudget FORD The all-new 2021 Ford F-150 was built with America’s hardest workers in mind. That’s why we’ve partnered to provide Florida Farm Bureau members with $500 Bonus Cash toward the purchase or lease of any eligible new Ford vehicle! Visit http://bit.ly/FFBFord for details. CAT The hard work that takes place each day on farms and ranches across North America isn’t for everyone. But fortunately, Cat® agriculture equipment is. Save up to $5000 on eligible Cat® Large Excavators along with $250 on select Cat Attachments thanks to your Farm Bureau membership.
If you’d like to learn more about Cactus Moon, you can visit their website at www.cactusmoonmarket.com or call Desilet at 813-727-3095.
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Go to www.Cat.com/FarmBureau to view the full list of eligible models and to download your discount certificate today!
HOME COMPOSTING Lynn Barber, Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent University of Florida Extension Hillsborough County
Did you know that we, the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Hillsborough County Extension, offer Home Composting workshops to our residents? Right now, we are providing this, and other workshops (Microirrigation and Rainwater Harvesting) via Zoom. At Home Composting workshops attendees learn how to create their own compost, the differences between compost, humus and mulch, how to reuse lawn and landscape clippings and kitchen food waste, and what you should do with grass clippings. Also included is an evaluation of different compost units or bins, what can and should not be composted, the critters you will attract in the cooler stages of composting, and how to build your compost pile. Attendees receive information on cold, slow and passive composting, and how to manage and monitor it from temperature, moisture and odor perspectives.
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Instructions are provided on mixing and turning the compost, finishing and curing it, and screening it if you are so inclined. To me, a very lazy gardener, screening compost is like sifting flour. I understand why it is done, I just choose not to do it! All the above and more will be fully explained, including how you can use the compost you created, whether
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finished or unfinished, and why the difference is important. After the workshop, attending households receive a compost bin, compost thermometer and kitchen compost pail/ bucket with a lid. You may want to attend all three of the workshops we offer monthly from February through November: Composting, Microirrigation and Rainwater Harvesting. If you have not attended a Composting workshop with us in the past, you may want to consider registering for one now. Pre-registration is required. Check out our website, which contains the calendar of events at: http://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/hillsborough/ upcoming-events/. We hope to “see” you at our upcoming workshops via Zoom. Remember to reduce, reuse, recycle and repeat. Be well! Lynn Barber is the Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Agent for UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County, 5339 County Road 579, Seffner, FL 33584. Contact her at labarber@ufl.edu, or 813-744-5519 Ext. 54105. Contact UF/IFAS Extension Hillsborough County at hillsborough@ifas.ufl.edu, 813-744-5519.
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UF FORMS NEW INSTITUTE
TO ADDRESS GLOBAL FOOD PRODUCTION AND SUSTAINABILITY By Jim Frankowiak
The University of Florida (UF) has announced creation of the UF/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) Food Systems Institute, which will bring together the university’s top researchers to find solutions to feeding the world in a way that is economically and environmentally sustainable. “This institute brings together global engagement with what we call systems thinking – addressing world hunger by researching how every part of the field-to-fork process affects every other part,” said Jack Payne, who retired last month as the UF senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of UF/IFAS. “It’s a search for how to deliver the most abundant, nutritious and affordable food possible for the greatest number of people.” Payne led UF/IFAS for 10 years, during which he established the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems (ISFS) and helped develop the U.S. Agency for International Development-funded Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems. The new Food Systems Institute will combine these two initiatives, including faculty and projects associated with each. Payne’s retirement plans call for continued participation in efforts to increase global food security – a measure of the availability of food and people’s access to it. The new Food Systems Institute will be led by Adegbola Adesogan, professor of ruminant nutrition in the department of animal sciences and current director of the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems. Created in 2015, the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Livestock Systems at UF has develoled research, technologies and outreach initiatives to strengthen the livestock sector in eight countries – Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nepal, Niger, Rwanda and Uganda—and increase the productivity of their animals with the ultimate goal of improving the nutrition, health, incomes and livelihoods of vulnerable people. The year 2015 also marked the establishment of the Institute for Sustainable Food Systems that has brought together some of the world’s leading scholars in fields such as food safety, environmental science, aquaculture, soil science, genetics and economics. This holistic approach to the world’s vast and complex food system seeks to inform policy and decision making. This past January, the USFS held the first Future of Food Forum, convening scientific, industry and policy leaders from around the world.
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COVER CROP BASICS By Jim Frankowiak | Photos courtesy of Dr. Johan Desaeger at the GCREC
Agricultural cover crops are plants that are grown to cover the soil as opposed to being harvested, and are typically an offseason crop planted after the cash crop has been harvested. Cover crops manage soil erosion, soil fertility, soil quality, water, weeds, pests, disease, biodiversity and wildlife in an agro ecosystem – an ecological system managed and shaped by humans.
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The use of cover crops for erosion control and providing nutrients for the next crop dates back over 2,500 years. Varied ancient Greek and Roman sources suggest cover crops were grown to produce “green manure” for vineyards and other crops. However, during the past century there has been a trend to ignore the role of cover crops for increasing soil organic matter in crop production, while the use of commercial chemical fertilizers for crop production has greatly increased. It must be noted, that while chemical fertilizers are affordable and easy to apply, they do not add to soil organic matter. The gradual decline in soil organic matter associated with continuous tillage, particularly in the extremely sandy soils of Florida, makes it difficult to establish crop stands and to attain deep rooting and other factors associated with crop vigor, yield and quality.
• Provide habitat for beneficial birds and insects and enhance soil microbial populations Many cover crops provide several of the above purposes. However, some cover crops may also be tall, woody and/ or weedy and that can interfere with planting, cultivation or harvesting while others may harbor pests and diseases. All of this demands selection of the right cover crop for a particular situation. One of the main issues to consider when choosing a cover crop is the season or period in which it will be needed. Annual cover crops can be categorized into two classes: crops that are adapted to cool¸ short days and those that are adapted to hot, long days. Further differentiation can be made among grass/grain versus leguminous type cover crops such as alfalfa, clover, peas, beans, lentils, soy and peanuts. Cover crops are grown in pure or mixed stands. Most annual cover crops need to be reestablished each year, but some may reseed naturally. Reseeding types may be preferable for groundcovers in orchard systems since they may reduce replanting cost. However, in other systems they may potentially become weeds and need to be mowed in a timely fashion to prevent problems.
Cover crops function as slow release fertilizers, reducing excessive nutrient leaching. Their use may also sustain and enhance soil organic matter content, which is critical in many Florida soils, especially sandy soils which typically have low inherent soil fertility, low retention of water and nutrients and are often prone to excessive nutrient leaching losses. The use of cover crops in a management plan, preferably with conservation tillage, will provide numerous benefits along with some challenges.
Critical to the use of cover crops is finding the right cover crop that can be purchased at a reasonable price and then planted in a timely manner to maximize crop nutrient accumulation, as well as matching the demands of a succeeding commercial crop for nutrient release. Since cover cropping was integral to past Florida farming practices, it may be helpful to take advantage of the experience and knowledge of older farmers in your area who farm similar soils and have used cover crops successfully.
Here are potential benefits/challenges associated with cover crops: • Weed control since cover crops compete for light, water and nutrients • Prevent soil losses associated with heavy rainfall (soil water erosion) • Reduce soil losses due to strong winds and to protect more sensitive crops such as watermelon from blasting damage • Scavenge and retain nutrients that otherwise might be lost in water runoff or by leaching during the off-season. This helps reduce fertilizer costs for future crops and also protects the environment from problems caused by excess nutrient loading in our watersheds • Reduce populations of certain soil pathogenic nematodes • Generate supplemental income as is the case with hay production or grazing • Form a suitable mulch cover for row middles and/or mulched beds
Finding the best cover crop to address specific needs may take some patience and experimentation with crops, crop combinations and management practices.
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More information is available at The Electronic Data Information Source (EDIS) of the University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) https://edis.ifas. ufl.edu, search “cover crops). EDIS publication SS-AGR-66/ AA217: Cover Crops, provides added information, including a table of Annual Summer and Winter Cover Crops, as well as Perennial Cover Crops for use in Florida. You may also contact Hillsborough County Extension Agents Alicia Whidden phone: 813-744-5519, Ext. 54134, email: awhidden@ufl.edu who specializes in vegetable and strawberry crops or Francisco Rivera (813/744-5519, Ext. 54119), email: friveramelendez@ufl.edu. Rivera works with small farms and alternative enterprises. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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The perimeter is fully fenced and with trees lining the perimeter, this land provides for a private sanctuary perfect for a family homestead with plenty of room for barns, shops, and recreational/agricultural activities. Just 12 +/- miles from I-75, this location has the feel of Old Florida surrounded by agricultural uses and minimal residential structures while still in proximity to the interstate and amenities of Sun City Center, Lithia, Brandon and Tampa.
Reed Fischbach, Licensed Real Estate Broker Blaise Lelaulu, Licensed Real Estate Associate Melissa Raburn, Licensed Real Estate Associate
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FischbachLandCompany.com
Information provided on properties is as accurate as possible. Fischbach Land Company does not guarantee the accuracy thereof. All parties shall conduct their own due diligence, research, inspection, and records to come to their own conclusions.
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PLANT CITY CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SALUTE TO AGRICULTURE Photos by Alexis Green
AGRICULTURIST OF THE YEAR Keith and Rhonda DeShong Keith was born and raised in Dover and Rhonda in Plant City. Keith was introduced to farming by Ralph Randall when he was in high school and continued farming with Ralph for several year. After he and Rhonda got married in 1988 they settled in Knights Station where he has been farming on his own since 1989. Keith primarily grows strawberries, however, has grown several other kinds of crops over the year. Rhonda has been faithful in assisting in any way needed and oversees payroll. Keith has had many agricultural influences over the years; however, Ralph Randall, Willie Meek and Porter Hare could be considered the most influential in his career. These, and many more, have mentored and encouraged Keith in the ever-changing agricultural industry. Keith and Rhonda have had the opportunity to meet and become fiends with many others within the farming community who have encouraged and assisted along the way. Keith is a member of the Florida Strawberry Grower’s Association as well as a member of Gideon’s International. Keith and Rhonda see the importance in helping others in the up and coming agricultural generation and within their community. Keith has assisted local agricultural teachers lay plastic for school fields, helped FFA students with steer projects and assists young farmers in establishing their operations. Both Keith and Rhonda attend Knights Baptist Church where they are very involved in various programs and are a part of the leadership team. Together they strive to not only assist those in the agricultural industry, but also reach out and impact those in the community. YOUNG AGRICULTURIST OF THE YEAR Jason Conrad
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• Graduate of Plant City High School and HCC. He then went on to Florida Southern and earned a degree in Turfgrass Man-
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agement and a Minor in Business. • Married for 23 years to Stephanie • Father to Anna (22), Madilyn (19), Shalee (14) and Tucker (12) • General Manager for Weeping Creek Ranches & Rocking S Farms – Hillsborough and Polk Counties • Served as the Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association president from 2016-2019, currently serving on the HCCA Board of Directors • Serving on the Executive Committee for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association from 2019 – current • Serving as the Membership Committee Chair for the Florida Cattlemen’s Association from 2018 – current. • Serving on the Florida Beef Council Board of Directors 2019 – current • Serving as the Co-Chair Hillsborough County Fair Market Steer Committee 2018 – present • Jason was a member of the 1st ever graduating class of the Florida Cattlemen’s Leadership Academy in 2014 • Serving on the Hillsborough County Fair Beef Breed Committee 2011 to current • Junior Florida Cattlemen’s Association volunteer 2010 – current • Lifetime member of Welcome Baptist Church Jason is a do anything for anyone kind of guy that is truly an asset to our Agricultural community. He is known to make visits all around the county if a call for help is made. He has pulled calves, helped treat sick cattle, hauled scales to young people’s houses, given advice on nutrition, given guidance on proper handling/care, just to name a few. Jason grew the Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association during his tenure as President. Membership in the county association grew, along with the representation at the county membership meetings and suppers. When he took over the presidency the county association averaged about 30 members and is currently edging close to 200. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
The Hillsborough County Cattlemen have been able to re-implement a scholarship program under the leadership of Jason and his Board of Directors. He played an integral part in the growth and success of the Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Clay Shoot. This event allowed the HCCA to raise funds for the Cattlemen’s Association to invest back in the youth of the community. Jason just recently achieved a goal he had set for himself a while back. He attended and successfully “graduated” the Professional Ringman’s Institute; put on by the highly regarded Rigby and Associates in Branson, MO. He is now certified Ringman and hopes to put those skills to use at sales in the near future. AGRI-BUSINESS OF THE YEAR Keel Farms, Clay Keel, President The Keel & Curley Winery and Restaurant was started in spring of 2003 in the kitchen of founder, Joe Keel. Keel, a central Florida blueberry farmer, wanted to find something to do with his end of crop blueberries. He decided blueberry wine would be interesting and dabbled with his creation in the family farmhouse kitchen. He started that spring of 2003 with 10 gallons of blueberry wine. Each batch was improved until it turned into the unique and charming flavors that Keel & Curley Winery is known for today. Clay Keel is a Plant City native and son of Keel Farms founder Joe Keel. Clay grew up on the farm but his young professional life took him many other places. He graduated form the University of South Florida in 2005 and commissioned into the US Army as a Medical Service Officer. Clay spend six years on active duty, deploying twice to Iraq with the 4th Infantry Division where he earned two Bronze Stars and still serves as an Army Reserve Officer today, assigned to Special Operations Command South in Homestead, FL. After exiting the service, Clay earned a Master of Business Administration from Saint Leo University and completed the Brewing Technology Course at The Siebel Institute in Chicago. He helped build multiple successful breweries in Florida and New York until deciding to take over the family farm and winery in 2018. Clay leads Keel Farms and associated companies including Keel and Curley Winery and Keel Farms Agrarian Ale and Cider. Clay is married to Carmen Keel and has two daughters. AG EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR Greg Lehman Greg Lehman was born in Plant City and is at third generation Florida citrus farmer. He attended Florida Southern College, majoring in Citrus Production. Right out of college he took a job with A. Duda & Sons managing orange groves in Labelle, FL. Later he returned home to manage his family farms and raised his three children with his wife, Pamela. He began teaching agriculture at Tomlin Middle School in 2005, and then later, in 2008, opened an agriculture program at
SUPPORTER OF YOUTH IN AG Carl and Dee Dee Grooms Carl and Dee Dee Grooms became a team on their wedding day, June 16, 1973. Carl knew he needed a cook as “he can grow it but can’t cook it!” And, oh, yes, Dee Dee was his perfect cook. A third generation Florida farmer, Carl’s farm was located in Cork whereas Dee Dee grew up on her grandparent’s small farm in Dover. Early on in their lives, they both learned to appreciate having fresh fruits and vegetables daily at any meal. Willa, Carl’s mom, taught Dee Dee how to make preserves and pickles as well as the art of canning vegetables from the family garden. Farming was definitely a family affair. In 1974 Fancy Farms became a reality when Carl and Dee Dee left the family farm and leased 15 acres in Turkey Creek. Carl jokes that the “Fancy” part of Fancy Farms was named after his wife, but, then again, Carl is a perfectionist. Their motto is “Since 1974 and still learning” because every year is different when Mother Nature is involved. Their two children, Kristi and Dustin, both work on the farm. Since Carl has semi-retired, Dustin manages the day-to-day operations. Kristi, Dustin and his wife Alison and daughter Skyler are a very important part of Fancy Farms’ operation and success. Striving to keep the strawberry legacy alive for the next generation, Carl and Dee Dee reach out to educate the public on how important sustainable agriculture is to America. Involved in many ways in giving back to the community, Carl and Dee Dee host an annual Hillsborough County 4-H U-pick with the proceeds raised designated for scholarships. This year will mark the 12th annual fundraiser. Dee Dee, who has earned several Grand Champion ribbons at the Florida Strawberry Festival for her delicious culinary creations, markets Florida strawberries and educates other through her travels, farm tours and daily work. As a founding member of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association since 1982, Carl has worked tirelessly to promote agriculture. He’s received numerous awards from the Florida Strawberry Growers Association over the years to include, the Workhorse Award in 1987, top producer per acre for a number of years, and was inducted into the FSGA Hall of Fame in 2013. Whether it is in farm production, marketing or educating the public on the plight of the farmer, he is always ready to work, striving to showcase agriculture as their motto. Carl is also a recognized local TV celebrity during freezes when news stations come the field to follow conditions and damage to the crop. He was selected to be part of a Sub Zero refrigerator commercial, which ran for five years. In 2013, Carl, Dee Dee and family were featured in a Food Network Canada episode called “Pitching In” with chef Lynn Crawford. Lynn wanted the public to understand how a product actually got from the farm to your table. So the Grooms’ taught her a thing or two about farming. For Carl, Dee Dee and their family, growing the fruit they love, reaching out to others and giving back to their community are all an important part of their lives. And, yes, God has blessed them in so many ways on their 46-year journey. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Barrington Middle School where he is currently teaching. He is passionate about the various FFA teams he leads in which both state and national titles have been awarded. His love of agriculture has inspired hundreds of students over the years. He also still finds joy in care-taking his family citrus grove.
SIT A SPELL by John Dicks Here we are, still biding our time, anxiously awaiting an end to the coronavirus pandemic. We’ve all been finding our way and adapting to abnormal new routines in life. Many of us have found refuge and relief in technology and all of the gadgets it has wrought. At times, though, the techno gizmos have been both wonderfully helpful, yet simultaneously irritating and frustrating. Consider, for example, video conference calls. Awesome they are, but really, quite exhausting they have become. Sometimes in life, when things seem so strange, it’s time to turn to the simple stuff for a sense of satisfaction. Perhaps, then, it is time to indulge in “Sit Spots.”
animals. What struck me, though, was that she had an uncanny way of knowing who, or which, animal was going to do something before it even happened. What I came to realize, like she already knew, was that animals, including us human ones, and really everything of nature, are creatures of routine. Left to our own intentions, we’re likely to do the same thing, at the same time, and at the same place, over and over again. Certainly we could analyze the phenomena of routine and reach some productive and creative conclusions on the value of adopting good habits. However, such is not the point here.
Let me explain.
Instead, it’s come to my attention that what my grandmother so gleefully engaged in way back when has now become one of those “next new things.”
I remember, a long, long time ago, when walking home from school, I’d visit my grandmother. She was a sweet, yet stern and hearty woman who had lived, and thrived, through many tough times.
It’s a pseudo rage in this age of coronavirus lockdowns, with people having so much time on their hands, yet longing to do something safe and productive. It’s known as the practice of finding a “sit spot.”
Her home was where today sits Plant City’s Bruton Memorial Library. As If by routine, she would most always motion to the porch where she’d invite me to “sit a spell.”
The idea is to find a place where you can sit quietly and simply, yet intensely, observe nature for short periods of time. The trick is to do so repeatedly for several days, if not weeks or even months, at the same spot and particularly at the same specific time.
It seemed to me that sitting on that porch was one of her very favorite pastimes. Granted, there was, back then, no social media or other internet distraction, and her tv just barely, sometimes, showed a somewhat grainy black and white image. The real action and entertainment was what was going on in and around that yard, just off the porch. “Sit still” was her admonition, which in my case as a growing and energetic young lad of 11 years old, was rather difficult to do. My Grandma, though, was quite good at. She was particularly adept at recognizing the local wildlife, and not just by the sights, but also their sounds and even their scents. I was convinced that she knew everything about all of the animals that would pounce, run, walk or flitter by. She knew them well. She even knew their “names.” None of that especially surprised me. Names are something we all assign to
Even better is to do so through different weather, both rain and sunshine and even hot and cold. As you actively observe your natural surroundings the goal is to tune your senses and ability to focus such that your mind lets go of the white noise of life and you become free to notice even the slightest bit of changes. Notice the direction, and strength of the wind; the flight pattern of birds who linger a few days before migrating elsewhere. Watch the lizards and insects as they scurry about. Ponder the plants and the patterns in their leaves. It’s a passive, inexpensive, activity which lets you slow down life, letting you love it even more. Grandma never knew it’s new age name, but she enjoyed and mastered the “Sit Spot” a long, long time ago!
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John Dicks is both a Lawyer and Businessman, including an interest in farming. He and his family have owned a Blueberry Farm and have Agricultural lands which they lease for cattle operations, as John says, “to someone who knows and handles cattle much better than I do!”. John is both a Gator, having received his undergraduate degree from the University of Florida, and a Seminole, with his Law Degree from Florida State University. John serves as Of Counsel to Trinkle Redman, a law firm in Plant City where he also served nine years as City Commissioner, including three terms as Mayor.
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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es
Know the Difference: American Crocodiles By Ginny Mink
When people think about Florida they think about sun and surf, palm trees and beaches, alligators and snakes. What most don’t realize is that the American alligator remains under the threatened category because of its resemblance to another creature that is endangered here in Florida. That is the American crocodile. So, let’s discuss the plight and value of the American crocodile here in Florida. Interestingly enough, the American crocodile wasn’t discovered until 1869. It has always been considered rare in our state yet, because it is a tropical species, South Florida is the northern part of its range. So, in 1975 when people recognized its lack of prevalence here, it was added to the endangered species act by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service.¹ There are two species of crocodilians that are endemic to the United States. Of course, for the purpose of this article we are only concerned with the American crocodile (not the American alligator) which enjoys coastal habitats like those in Central America, northern South America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and the very southern parts of Florida. Due to its ability to reach Florida, it has had to learn to coexist with American alligators. And, because people often don’t know the difference, this is what has led to the protection of the American alligators as well.² According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, inexperienced people can have a hard time distinguishing between the two. So, to help those of us who think they are all alligators, here are some of the significant differences between the two. Crocodiles are grayish green, their snouts are more narrow and tapered, and you can see the fourth tooth on the lower jaws sticking out when their mouths are closed. Their babies are lighter colored with dark stripes. This is in contrast to the American alligator, which is typically blacker in shade, and only shows its upper teeth when its jaws are shut. Plus, their babies are dark colored with yellow stripes. It’s like they are the exact opposite in appearance once you know the difference.³ Since the 1970s, the American crocodile’s population biology has been studied by a variety of groups and individuals. Their focus has been on surveys that are designed to locate both the crocodiles and their nests. These study areas have been centered around the Turkey Point Power Plant site, Biscayne Bay, Everglades National Park, Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge, and SW Florida in general.¹
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What they have discovered is that timing, distribution and quantity of water flow directly impacts the American crocodile, though they are uncertain as to how that does so. Scientists and researchers believe that the American crocodile is a significant indicator species as to the health of the estuarine environments located in South Florida. And, while their populations there are small, thankfully, they do seem to be stable.² The truth is, these reptiles are reclusive and shy. Their preference for brackish and saltwater areas means they are most frequently found in creeks in mangrove swamps, ponds, and coves. But, thanks to the extensive canal systems in SE Florida, they are also being located in freshwater areas more inland.³ In fact, they are now being encountered in places they were never seen before like golf courses, marinas, county parks, and
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even public beaches. Unfortunately, this has created a growing problem between people and crocodiles because people are not aware of the difference between them and alligators.¹ Unlike alligators, crocodiles will quickly and noisily enter the water when frightened by the presence of humans. That scares people, but really, it’s the crocodile that is terrified.³ During the breeding and nesting seasons these animals are more readily located along Florida Bay’s exposed shoreline. Typically, the males will stay more inland than the females. Their natural nesting sites are raised marl creek banks near deeper water or on sandy shorelines. They will also nest on manmade canal berms. The sites they choose offer deep water hiding places for the females. Unfortunately, the mortality of hatchlings is often higher when the nests are located on the shore. They seem to do better in inland nests.² Between the 30s and 60s crocodile hides were worth a good deal of money, which, in turn, led to the decline in their species. Even now, the biggest threats they face include illegal hunting and habitat destruction. Natural predation of nests by crabs, birds, and raccoons continue to contribute to mortality levels as well. And the desire of humans to build in their habitats is a significant issue for their future existence.³ Crocodiles protect their young in an interesting way. Females will lay between 20 and 60 eggs that have to incubate for a period of 85 days. Areas that are too dry or too wet can destroy the eggs. But, once the incubation period has ended, the females will dig up their nests and carry their babies to the water. Once there, crocodiles will prey on small mammals, fish, turtles, frogs, and birds.³ Understanding the difference between the American crocodile and the American alligator may help us squash some of the fear surrounding these unique creatures. And making an effort to protect their habitats is essential to ensuring they continue to populate their current locales. As with every creature we discuss, these animals were placed here for a reason by the Creator and it is indeed our job to be good stewards of the spaces they inhabit. Learn to identify them so that you are less scared and more compassionate when you come in contact with them! Resources: ¹Mazzotti, F. & Cherkiss, M. (2006). The Croc Docs. Ecology and Conservation of the American Crocodile (Crocodylus acutus) in Florida. University of Florida. IFAS. https://crocdoc.ifas.ufl. edu/publications/posters/crocodileecologyconservation/ ²United States Fish and Wildlife Service. American Crocodile. Crocodylus acutus. https://www.fws.gov/verobeach/MSRPPDFs/Croc.pdf ³Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. American Crocodile. Crocodylus acutus. https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/profiles/reptiles/american-crocodile/ Photo Credits: S. Rae. (2005). Crocodylus acutus (American Crocodile). Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/6Ke16v Donovan, Tim. (2012). Florida Fish and Wildlife. Baby Crocodile 2. Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/bBfijk WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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s e p i c e R Courtesy of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Chef Justin Timineri
Florida Stone Crab Claws with Key Lime Mustard Dipping Sauce
DIRECTIONS Crack claws using a wooden hammer or a seafood cracker; remove shell and movable pincer leaving meat attached to the remaining pincer. Set aside and keep refrigerated until use. In a small bowl combine the mayo, Dijon and lime juice. Taste the mustard sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve stone crab claws with the mustard sauce.
INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
3 pounds stone crab claws, medium sized 1 cup low-fat mayonnaise 5 tablespoons Dijon-style mustard 4 Key limes (or two regular limes), juiced sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
DIRECTIONS
1 ½ pounds beef, sliced thin 1 bunch scallions, sliced 3 tablespoons fresh ginger root, peeled and chopped fine 1 sweet red bell pepper, sliced thin 1 tangerine, zested and juiced, separated 2 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine beef, scallions, ginger, bell peppers, tangerine zest and cornstarch. Mix ingredients well to coat. Preheat a large sauté pan over mediumhigh heat. In a small mixing bowl, combine tangerine juice, soy sauce and sugar. Stir ingredients until sugar is dissolved.
1 tablespoon light lowsodium soy sauce 2 teaspoons natural sugar 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tangerines, peeled and sectioned cooked brown rice
Add the vegetable oil to the preheated sauté pan. Carefully add the beef mixture to the pan. Cook while stirring constantly until the beef is browned and slightly crispy. Add the soy sauce mixture and cook until sauce is thickened. Toss in the fresh tangerine segments and serve over brown rice.
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By Ginny Mink
Ornamental Gardening in Florida
It is time, once again, to welcome you on the next voyage of the Literary Time Machine. We don’t know if you have noticed people in your neighborhoods working in their yards more than ever, but we certainly have. And that makes what we learn from Mr. Simpson all the more valuable. It gives us some cool plant suggestions that can help us occupy our time during these uncertain days. So, step aboard and take a trip back to 1926 with us!
This month we enter the chapter entitled Exotic Epiphytic Orchids. Mr. Simpson warns us, “This list is intended to give a few of the most easily grown exotic orchids. It is very probable that an expert might be able to succeed with many others.”¹ We don’t know about you, but orchids have always seemed a bit challenging, though we do know some people that have incredible success with a large variety with seemingly little effort. Perhaps you will discover some that work that way for you here. The Dendrobium seems to be his favorite. He writes, “An immense genus numbering six hundred species from the Oriental tropics and into cooler regions, several of which I have found the most satisfactory of any orchids I have cultivated. The stems are mostly elongated and not pseudobulbous, leafy and bearing great numbers of large, very handsome, and mostly long enduring flowers. With me they have been almost entirely free from disease or attacks by insects and have quite generally seemed to be adapted very perfectly to our conditions.”¹ He continues, “D. nobile and its varieties stand at the head of the list; the wonderful flowers almost seem to have souls and to be gifted with intelligence, they remind one of glorified pansies. D. philanopsis has rich, variegated shades of purple, the flowers remaining in perfection a long time; D. moschatum, a strong grower, many large salmon colored flowers in spring; D. densiflorum with pendulous blossoms of rich yellow; D. superbum with drooping spikes of rich purple; D. fimbriatum, rich orange; D. parishi, amethyst flowers with purple spots and many others.”¹ One has to wonder, while reading these descriptions, what these orchids really look like and if they would do well in our area of the state.
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Since his personal preference was D. nobile, we figured that would be the best one to research. So, according to OrchidWeb, “Nobile dendrobiums can be grown and flowered in the home or greenhouse. They do, however, have rather specific cultural requirements. When those requirements are met, they will produce a profusion of sweet-scented, long-lasting flowers that can appear from fall through spring.”² The site goes on to give specific instructions as to how best to grow these gorgeous flowers in case you are interested. Though, in looking at the pictures, it is hard for us to understand why he felt they were “gifted with intelligence,”¹ and seemed, “to have souls.”¹ They just look like pretty flowers to us. You’ll have to be the judge of that!
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Part 71
So, we move on to Phalaenopsis, Moth Orchids. He explains, “A genus of surpassingly beautiful orchids from Asia, Malaysia and the Philippines; they have broad, succulent leaves, those of some species richly variegated and they bear arching panicles of large, wonderfully rich, waxy flowers which in some cases endure for two or three months…They do not seem to be injured by our northers but sometimes are troubled with a blight or disease in which the leaves turn reddish and finally shrivel and die.”¹ In reading this, we questioned where the term “moth orchids” came from since he doesn’t describe them as resembling moths or even attracting them. According to Just Add Ice Orchids, “During a mid-1750s voyage to China, Swedish naturalist Peter Osbeck, a Linnaeus apostle, is said to have inadvertently given Phalaenopsis orchids their common name, “moth orchid,” when he peered through his field glasses during a stop in Java and mistook a large cluster of Phalaenopsis orchids for a flurry of moths.”³ While the Wilhelma Zoological site states, they are, “Socalled because some of them resemble colourful moths in flight.”⁴ And, it’s true, when you look at the center of the flower you can see why some would think they appeared to be butterfly or moth like in shape. We’ve traveled through some pretty amazing orchids this month. Hopefully, you have found some that you are willing to take a chance on if orchids are an area of interest for you. Next month, we’ll finish up orchids and start on aquatic exotics. That should be interesting for those of you with fishponds and water features. Until then, happy gardening! Resources: ¹ Simpson, Charles T. (1926). Ornamental Gardening in Florida. Published by the Author; Little River, FL. Printed by J.J. Little and Ives Company, New York. (p. 208-210). ²OrchidWeb. Nobile Type Dendrobium Care. https://www.orchidweb.com/nobile-type-dendrobium-care ³Just Add Ice Orchids. (2012). How Did ‘Moth’ Orchids Get Their Name? https://www.justaddiceorchids.com/just-addice-orchid-blog/bid/88427/how-did-moth-orchids-gettheir-name ⁴Lô-Kockel, Dr. Franziska. The moth orchid: laboratory-bred windowsill beauty with flower power. Wilhema Zoological. https://www.wilhelma.de/en/animals-and-plants/portraits/2007/the-moth-orchid.html#:~:text=So%2Dcalled%20 because%20some%20of,about%2044%20species%20of%20 phalaenopsis. Photo Credits: Maja Dumat. (2014). Dendrobium nobile. Flickr. https://flic. kr/p/kAEPqd John. (2014). Yellow Moth Orchid by My Lovely Wife. Flickr. https://flic.kr/p/qqih2B WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD
By J. Scott Angle
Photo ID: Yiannis Ampatzidis and a drone on which he mounts his Agroview system Soon machines will accurately count hundreds of thousands of trees in a local grove. They will diagnose diseases you can’t see, distinguish weeds from crops on a Hillsborough County farm and blast only the weeds, and give machines the vision and agility to pick only ripe berries from bushes in Plant City.
Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred, and Ampatzidis are developing a tractor-mounted AI technology that can differentiate weeds from crops using multiple cameras as it drives down a row of vegetables. AI then instantly tells a sprayer where to point and shoot to eradicate only the weeds in an experimental field at Gulf Coast REC.
In fact, it’s already happening. The common thread through these advances is that some of the finest minds in agricultural Schumann also develops smartphone apps, what he calls an science are creating “wise minds” that can do even more – ar- “expert in your hand,” to detect citrus disease. By repeatedly tificial intelligence, or AI. challenging and training his AI system for citrus, he’s teaching it to add new memories so it learns from mistakes and becomes UF/IFAS scientists Yiannis Ampatzidis, Nathan Boyd, Sandra smarter. Guzman, and Arnold Schumann are among the experts applying AI to local farming. You are likely to be early beneficiaries Eventually, it gets smart enough that it’s more foolproof than because of these scientists’ grower-focused research, state the human brain and can see things not visible to the human support for innovation, and a culture among local growers that eye. His smartphone app detects diseases and identifies defiembraces innovation as the way to keep Florida agriculture ciencies of manganese, boron, nitrogen and other nutrients in globally competitive. trees.
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This partnership fueled advances in plant genetics and ge- AI’s transformational moment has arrived in part because of nomics in the past decade. At UF/IFAS, we’re about to turn its recent huge advances in data collection. Now we need to full power on AI. develop the tools to translate that data into information you can use to make decisions. You have asked for such tools. We Some of that power will come from the University of Florida’s mean to deliver them. recently announced a $70 million campus wide artificial intelligence initiative that will strengthen research addressing AI is a top priority in our research agenda. It’s so important that some of agriculture’s most vexing problems. It will also deploy Ampatzidis calls it the fourth revolution in agriculture. It holds AI across the curriculum, including that of the UF/IFAS Col- the potential to revolutionize agriculture the way machinery, lege of Agricultural and Life Sciences, to transform the future and then synthetic fertilizers, and then genetics did. AI could of teaching and the workforce. cut costs through early detection of disease. It offers potential in pinpoint irrigation based on field conditions and weather The initiative is supported by a $25 million gift from UF alum- forecasts, which Guzman is pursuing at the Indian River Renus Chris Malachowsky and $25 million in hardware, software, search and Education Center in Fort Pierce. It can also provide training and services from NVIDIA, the Silicon Valley-based reliable and inexpensive labor. technology company he cofounded and a world leader in AI and accelerated computing. UF is investing an additional $20 AI isn’t going to take over your opmillion in the initiative, which will create an AI-centric data cen- eration. But with more scientists ter that houses the world’s fastest AI supercomputer in higher teaching machines to make sense education. of crop, weather, water, plant, and soil data, we will be able to help Ampatzidis, a faculty member at the Southwest Florida Re- you extract wisdom from data to search and Education Center in Immokalee, has already put give you the information you need AI at the center of his work. His AI-driven Agroview system is to decide what’s best at your farm, already counting trees with 98 percent accuracy from a drone. ranch or grove. He has also done work with Harvest CROO Robotics co-founder and UF grad Bob Pitzer to improve his automated harvester. The work has helped to optimize positioning of the robotic pickers for plucking ripe berries at the rate of dozens of human Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s hands without bruising the fruit. Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF InstiBoyd, a faculty member at the Gulf Coast Research and Edtute of Food and Agricultural Sciences ucation Center in Balm, Schumann, a professor at the Citrus (UF/IFAS).
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NEW BURGER KING SUSTAINABILITY EFFORT AIMS TO REDUCE COW METHANE EMISSIONS; CAMPAIGN DRAWS CATTLEMEN’S IRE LOCALLY, STATEWIDE AND NATIONALLY
Burger King says it is improving its cows’ low-carb diet by adding 100 grams of lemongrass per cow each day. The result of the new diet plan is a reduction in methane emissions from cows by 33 percent per day, according to Burger King, also noting those emissions are one of the major “greenhouse gases” (GHG) contributing to climate change. This new Burger King sustainability initiative was featured in a whimsical, musical-type advertisement starring a group of young musicians and singers dressed in brightly colored, Western-type wear. If you haven’t seen the new ad, visit: https://youtu.be/zNI8zVmHCng. The company also announced that the new lemongrass-fed beef will be used in Whoppers at some of its restaurants in Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and Portland as part of the #CowsMenu. It also termed the new formula “open source and fairly simple to implement.” Burger King developed the new sustainability initiative with researchers from the Mexico’s Autonomous University and University of California, Davis. The key is the feeding of 100 grams of lemongrass to each cow’s low carbohydrate diet, each day during the three to four month “fattening” or final stage of a cow’s life. The new program and ad drew swift and critical responses from cattlemen at the local, state and national levels and are best reflected in an Op-Ed piece by Marty Smith, president of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Past President of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA) and Alachua County resident. His comments were supported by Hillsborough County Cattlemen’s Association President Chris “Bear” McCullough and his Polk County counterpart Dave Tomkow. McCullough expressed “disappointment” in Burger King “but I believe they will eventually see the mistake and turn around on it,” he said.
derstood the limitation of its idea and the science. In the fine print, readers can learn the lemongrass feed trial, from which BK built its claims for its ‘low carb’ burger, was inconclusive in a second study and was performed on such a small scale that the marketing claims upheld by the retail giant prove not only irresponsible, but deliver a blunt smack in the face to the scientific and beef communities. “BK’s campaign took a hit online, receiving negative feedback from consumers and agriculturists alike. These folks spread facts, including that the EPA (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) only credits beef with 2 percent of greenhouse gas emissions within the U.S., which accounts for less than ½ percent of GHG emissions globally. While yes, the U.S. and the global livestock industry has, should and will continue to strive to reduce energy inputs and to make the individual animal more efficient (i.e., lower methane emissions), I challenge BK to ask a better question: How can BK actually help the industry improve? It is not by rushing to marketing claims based on questionable science. “Apart from raising a high-quality protein, cattle, along with all ruminants, perform a lot of functions that other food and protein sources do not, benefiting both people and the planet. Cattle – particularly here in Florida – promote biodiversity, benefiting many declining grassland bird species, while also preserving native grasslands, habitat for those birds and many other animals. Cattle ranching protects water resources, maintains open landscapes and provides our state and our national the beautiful scenic and outdoor space we value in life.”
Smith’s Op-Ed was entitled, “Go Ahead. Eat Sustainable Beef,” and it began by calling the BK program “one of the worst marketing and greenwashing claims I’ve ever seen.” He noted “the marketing campaign took aim at cattle, framing beef as a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and providing a ‘solution’ to the problem through its newly launched #CowsMenu.
Smith went on to describe in detail many other aspects of this issue and the facts relating to each, as well as ongoing efforts being put forth and results achieved. He expressed hope “that folks out there now realize that beef sustainability is complex and that is why there are so many mixed messages and totally false information out there, but if you step back and look at everything the industry has done to improve in the past, everything it is protecting now and all the work we are committed to doing in the future, beef should be what’s for dinner.”
“The #Cows Menu calls for a bovine diet sourcing lemongrass, a feed resource that can’t be grown in much of the United States, making it impossible to scale. BK clearly un-
He closed with the suggestion “that maybe you stop by your local grocery store and pick up a nice steak on the way home instead of pulling into a Burger King.” INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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