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CONTENTS
Polk County Cattlemen’s Association
28 KELLEY BUICK 20 BUCK TRUCK GIVEAWAY
P.O. Box 9005 • Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL. 33831-9005 President – Dave Tomkow 3305 US Highway 92 E Lakeland, FL 33801-9623 (863) 665-5088 dave@cattlemens1.com Vice President – Ken Sherrouse 13475 Moore Rd Lakeland, FL 33809-9755 (863) 698-1834 kensherrouse@yahoo.com Secretary/Treasurer - Justin Bunch PO Box 849 Highland City, FL 33846 (863) 425-1121 justin.bunch@cpsagu.com
PAGE 10 Scott Angle
PAGE 32 PCSO
PAGE 11 Funding Greening Fight
PAGE 35 News Briefs
PAGE 12 Thoughts from the Heifer Pen PAGE 14 Fishing Hot Spots
PAGE 36 John Dicks PAGE 38 Trendy Farmer
PAGE 40 Activity
PAGE 16 Endangered Species
PAGE 41 A Closer Look
PAGE 18 State FFA Officer PAGE 22 Rocking Chair Chatter PAGE 25 Kabocha Squash
PAGE 42 Beef For The Holidays PAGE 44 Farm Data PAGE 47 Bud Advisories
PAGE 26 Gardening
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
InTheField® Magazine P.O. Box 5377 • Plant City, Fl. 33566-0042 *Winners will be notified by phone. You Too Can Be A Winner! PAGE
Alternate SD – Orrin Webb PO Box 202 Bartow, FL 33831 (941) 916-5093 cwebbowebb@aol.com Ray Clark 4484 Swindell Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 640-0719 rclark@tampabay.rr.com Donald Conroy 3882 Wolfolk Rd Fort Meade, FL 33841 (863) 412-0790 Stuart Fitzgerald PO Box 1437 Lake Wales, FL 33859 (813) 478-8141 stuartcattlellc@yahoo.com
PAGE 30 Boston Fern
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State Director - David Hunt 9699 Alt Bab Pk Cut-Off Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 287-1835 Dhunt285@aol.com
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Kevin Fussell 4523 Fussell Rd Polk City, FL 33868-9676 (863) 412-5876 Scott Shoupe 6130 Allen Lane Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 581-7593 Scott_shoupe@hotmail.com Carlton Taylor 9875 Hancock Road Lakeland, FL 33810 (863) 858-1771 L2brangus@aol.com
Dr. Lujean Waters 8750 Shreck Rd Bartow, FL 33830 (863) 537-1495 Lujean.waters@gmail.com Standing Committee Chairs: Membership Events- Kevin Fussell Trade Show- Bridget Stice Rodeo- Fred Waters PO Box 463 Alturas, FL 33820-0463 (863) 559-7808 Website – Adam Norman 2115 West Pipkin Rd Lakeland, FL 33811 (863) 944-9293 Adamnorman1977@gmail. com Leslie Buchanon P.O. Box 1212 Bartow, FL 33831 863-581-2711 Buckld96@gmail.com Extension – Bridget Stice PO Box 9005, Drawer HS03 Bartow, FL 33831 (863) 519-1048 bccarlis@ufl.edu Sheriff’s Dept. – Lt. Paul Wright 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 557-1741 pw5281@polksheriff.org Sgt. Tim Sanders 1891 Jim Keen Blvd. Winter Haven, FL 33880 (863) 656-6119 brusso@polksheriff.org Warner University – Casey Wingate 7155 Wauchula Rd Myakka City, FL 34251 (941) 600-5772 Casey.wingate@warner.edu
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STAFF
Letter from the Editor
Publisher/Photography Karen Berry Senior Managing Editor/ Associate Publisher Sarah Holt Sales Karen Berry Sarah Holt Melissa Nichols
It’s the most wonderful time of the year!! Holidays seem to unburden us from reason and, if you are anything like me, it allows us to indulge our every whim. Christmas cookies for breakfast? Yes, please. There are just so many opportunities to eat. It’s also a beautiful time of year when happiness and joy come alive in all of us. Friends and family get together to make memories and it is a time of giving peace and love to all. Something we should strive to do every day, not just at Christmas. I watched my first Christmas movie of the year about a month ago, which is very early for me. I’ve already watched How the Grinch Stole Christmas (the original) once and I’m sure I’ll be watching again. Christmas music has also been playing at the office. This year just seems a bit more relaxed to me and I love it. As always, let us not forget the reason for the celebration this season. And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger. NIV Luke 2:8-12. Remember, Have a Holly Jolly Christmas! And of course, a very happy and prosperous New Year.
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Staff Writers Al Berry Sandy Kaster James Frankowiak Sean Green Ginny Mink Contributing Writers Woody Gore John Dicks Social Media Victoria Saunders
In The Field Magazine is published monthly and is available through local Polk 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 Polk County Catllemen’s Association.
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.
The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you. - Numbers 6:25 INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
Photography Karen Berry Melissa Nichols Blair Buchanon
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
Sarah Holt
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It’s hard to believe it is December already and we are about to start a New Year. This is my last article as President of the Polk County Cattlemen’s Association, and I would like to thank everyone for the opportunity to serve them. I hope everyone continues to support the Cattlemen and Women at the county and the state by staying involved with our local, state, and national organizations that support the producers of our industry. The cattle market has been pretty good this month on the front end cattle but has lost a good bit on the plainer cattle. It looks like they are needing more cattle in the packing house, so we are finally starting to see an increase on our end. It looks like 2022 should be a better year. Once again, don’t forget about good herd health and management. A little goes a long way.
Dave Tomkow
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Polk County Cattlemen’s Association President
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FROM THE SCIENTIFIC FIELD
By J. Scott Angle
Along a rural road in Bartow, the future of grapefruit and tangerines has sprung up in what looks like a cluster of circus big-top tents. It’s the first Florida citrus grove I’ve visited where no one has ever spotted a psyllid.
He started with local growers. Several wanted to try five- or 10-acre plots at one of their current grove locations. But that would have required each to invest in their own specialized equipment that would only be used indoors.
Spain, it turns out. Pines’ wife is from Spain, and through her he connected with a company that had the engineers, designers and manufacturing capacity to send the first screen systems over. Pines had what he thought was the ideal piece of land near a lake, and he planted.
He and Schaal are quick to note that the project is not a oneperson show. They have built a team of experts who are working together to ensure the projects’ success. Indications are not only that the fruit will fetch a high price for its high quality, but many consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainability.
Callaham and Pines hatched an idea—a CUPS co-op. By pooling resources, growers could each invest at levels they could afford and still benefit from economies of scale. Callaham could proceed with building 10-acre tents and purchasing The Dundee Citrus Growers Association’s field of screens has specialized equipment for high-density plantings that would be more like servicing rows in a vineyard than in a traditional inspired a steady pilgrimage. citrus grove. First, from local growers. Then, as word got out, from Miami, Maine and other far-flung places where people may not know Callaham leaned on Schumann as he put his first trees in the a Ruby Red from a pomelo. Then came representatives from ground in 2018. How much should he space them? What fertilsome of the nation’s largest food purchasers, companies ization and irrigation strategies should he employ? Which variwith household names. Others came from companies whose eties work best under screen? names you’d recognize if you lived in Japan or Canada. Schumann continues to visit Callaham frequently, most recentSteven Callaham, CEO of Dundee Citrus Growers Associa- ly to look at the trees and discuss nutrition, pest and disease tion, and Jennifer Schaal, the CFO, greeted me at their 300 strategies. UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center enscreened-in acres of grapefruit and mandarin in November. In tomologist Lauren Diepenbrock has also visited the Dundee some ways, with their tents and trees they tell a tale that’s un- operation to advise on control of certain insects. Extension agent Chris Oswalt, who advises growers on conditions from like any in the industry’s history. frost to floods, collaborates with Callaham on how to grow citBut in other ways, their story is familiar to most successful rus in a system that creates its own microclimate. groves for more than a century. Producers seeking a solution to a challenge looked to the University of Florida Institute of As I finished my recent visit with Callaham, he told me the Dundee success story could not have happened without UF/ Food and Agricultural Sciences. IFAS. As leader of the research and innovation arm of Florida It starts with Dundee board member Ed Pines visiting a UF/ agriculture, this is music to my ears—science shows the way IFAS research center. Pines heard a presentation about some- and encourages innovation to overcome challenges like HLB. thing that would ultimately become known as CUPS—citrus But Callaham and the Dundee board of directors took on the under protective screen. challenge of expanding the CUPS concept to a commercial UF/IFAS was experimenting with growing citrus in enclosed level. It hasn’t paid off yet because the oldest trees are still less screenhouses. Pines saw it and wondered where one would than three years old. But when Callaham leads you inside the big-top tent and you see the healthy trees, you believe. begin to screen in the acreage for a commercial grove.
Unfortunately, Pines faced several setbacks due to the location he chose and eventually converted the project to conventional grove. It could have ended there. But Callaham, with encouragement from Pines and the support of the Dundee board, decided to try another way. All Dundee needed was capital, a more suitable piece of land, technical expertise, an entirely new way of organizing a citrus business, and believers.
The dense plantings conserve land, and CUPS-grown fruit requires fewer pesticides, less fertilizer and much less irrigation per box of fruit produced than conventionally grown fruit.
Dundee is wrapping up planting the third phase of what Callaham calls an agricultural subdivision. It’s like the groves of old in that it relies on entrepreneurship, a powerful marThe key was finding land at elevation. That meant the Ridge, keting narrative and science that and their location is known as The Hill to the locals. 180 feet turns a whole lot of hard work into smart work. above sea level. A Florida Everest.
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Callaham’s pitch to growers and investors was that the ground was sound and the structures were well engineered. He told them the growing method was validated by UF/IFAS science. He had what has to be one of the world’s best manufacturers of the equipment, and he had the UF/IFAS scientist he calls the “godfather” of CUPS, Arnold Schumann (whose research is fueled by both state and federal funding), on speed dial.
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Scott Angle is the University of Florida’s Vice President for Agriculture and Natural Resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
University of Florida citrus faculty secure federal funding in ongoing fight against citrus greening photo by UF/IFAS photography By Ruth Borger University of Florida citrus researchers continue to provide innovative leadership in the fight against the devastating disease Huanglongbing, also known as citrus greening disease. The USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Emergency Citrus Disease Research and Extension Program recently awarded over $2.2 million in three grants to UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences faculty to advance the known science to fight the disease. In addition, UF/IFAS researchers are serving in leadership roles in two other multi-million-dollar grants awarded to colleague institutions from across the nation.
Vincent will support the needs of both commercial and residential citrus growers by comparing new tools that are intended to support young tree establishment that are currently available and developing management recommendations for each tool for both audiences. The project will study Individual Protective Covers, metallized reflective “mulch” (polyurethane ground cover) and red-dyed kaolin, which are thought to be visual and/or physical deterrents to the Asian citrus psyllid, the vector for the bacterium that causes citrus greening.
Collectively, these projects provide an aggressive strategy to finding viable, realistic solutions in the fight against citrus greening and represent over $3.5 in federal funding for UF/ IFAS research. More importantly, UF/IFAS researchers are participating in each of the five grants awarded in this funding cycle.
The project will compare psyllid and other insect/mite infestation, pathogen incidence, tree growth and development above and below ground, irrigation and fertilizer needs and yield to provide a holistic comparison of these tools to growers. The team will also provide modified versions of these field tools for use in residential use in collaboration with the UF/IFAS Extension Florida Master Gardener Volunteer network. The two-year program is funded at $750,000.
Targeting the Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) gut to block Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus transmission
Advanced testing and commercialization of novel defensin peptides and therapies for HLB control
UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center (CREC) faculty Kirsten Pelz-Stelinski and Bryony Bonning from Gainesville will direct a two-year, $1,020,810 grant, which aims to provide a pathogen transmission-blocking strategy toward mitigation of citrus greening-related losses.
Ute Albrecht from the UF/IFAS Southwest Florida Research and Education Center will be joined by CREC faculty Ariel Singerman and Choaa El-Mohtar working on a Coordinated Agricultural Project (CAP) with Texas A & M University to test promising HLB therapies to kill the bacterium CLas and control HLB.
The goal of the project is to identify gut-binding peptides (GBP) that compete with the bacterium that causes citrus greening (CLas) for attachment to the ACP gut. Ultimately, that process could disrupt the transmission of CLas by the psyllid. In essence, this strategy would break the cycle of pathogen transmission at the source by neutralizing the psyllid.
Methods to be tested include using the hairy root system to screen potent anti-CLas peptide and small molecules. Researchers plan to use multiple locations and multi-year field evaluations of the therapies and delivery systems. Economic feasibility studies will be conducted to determine the extent of benefits to the citrus growers.
Utilizing HLB-tolerant citrus germplasm and understanding its role in mitigating Huanglongbong
The four-year, $7,000,000 project will direct $868,792 to UF/ IFAS for its contributions to the study.
UF/IFAS CREC faculty Manjul Dutt, Nabil Killiny and Lauren Diepenbrock and Southwest Florida Research and Education Center researcher Ozgur Batuman will focus on integrating the natural HLB resistance present in Australian limes into conventional citrus to produce HLB-resistant Australian lime hybrid rootstocks and interstocks and eventually produce HLB-resistant scions against HLB.
Use performance of 300 hybrids in established trials to map Huanglongbing tolerance/resistance genes and release superior new rootstocks
The two-year, $500,000 grant will involve planting on stakeholder plots and greenhouse environments. Regional management strategies for Asian citrus psyllid and HLB prevention in commercial groves and residential plantings UF/IFAS CREC faculty Lauren Diepenbrock, Megan Dewdney, Ariel Singerman, Davie Kadyampakeni and Christopher
UF/IFAS will receive $445,808 for its role in this project. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Ute Albrecht from SWFREC and Zhanao Deng from the Gulf Coast Research and Education Center will work with the USDA and the University of California-Riverside on a twoyear, $1,499,998 project that will advance existing work on 300 rootstock hybrids to identify the best performing HLBtolerant rootstocks for commercial release with expanded collection of performance information. Researchers hope to identify and select a minimum of three new rootstock cultivars for release to growers before the end of 2023.
By Marisol Tarango
THOUGHTS FROM THE HEIFER PEN The Christmas Season is halfway over. (Sad depressed sigh.) Some people are in full swing; they have their presents wrapped under the tree, while some people are just now putting up their tree and starting their gift lists. College students are heading home and anxiously awaiting final grades, while high school students are finishing their term papers. And to the jealousy of all, elementary kids are making Christmas decorations and having movie days in class. Even though some people may dread the Christmas season or different parts of it, I would say most enjoy it in some way or another.
for when they come in the house, even though they know exactly where it is every year. That is the way my grandma is with nativity scenes. Most of the time she forewent a Christmas tree to make space for the many dining tables we had to set up, but she always had the Nativity set up, sometimes more than one around the house. And then there is the Christmas tradition that no one can escape from, family gatherings. I have a pretty cool family and have never dreaded family gatherings, maybe it’s because I’m the oldest grandchild and don’t have any bossy older cousins. But I have a hard time with Christmas socials outside of family and church. Why would I want to go to a party with people I barely know and awkwardly talk about how my parents are doing. But for other people, Christmas parties are something they look forward all year and they enjoy mingling and munching with other people. Then of course there are the introverts that would rather stay home and watch their favorite Christmas movie wrapped up in their favorite blanket drinking hot chocolate. Lastly, there is the walking puzzle. People who enjoy being at the party, but are content to watch in the corner, they are just as happy as the person in the middle of the crowd telling a joke, they just don’t want to be that person.
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I have always enjoyed Christmas shopping two weeks before Christmas, right in the heart of the season. It always seemed ideal to me to find that special, perfect present for people in my family while going from shop-to-shop listening to Christmas music in the car. Though this is enjoyable for me, this would probably create last minute panic for our Christmas preppers. They enjoy preparing for Christmas months before it happens. It lets them feel prepared and organized for the holidays so that they can enjoy the memorable moments of the season unhampered by the thoughts of having to buy gifts. But there are also the Christmas Adam and Eve shoppers. (Christmas Adam is the day before Christmas Eve because Adam came before Eve… anyways) Sometimes I feel that these people (ahem, dads) get some sort of adrenaline rush from finding the How do we handle these differences? I’ve learned recently perfect gifts on the last two possible days. Like it is some type what is highly stressful for me is actually enjoyable for other people. And when I am worried that someone isn’t having a of covert mission they must accomplish. good time, they are having a good time in their own way. When Another thing that people enjoy in vast differences is Christ- I am feasting on the new book I got for Christmas in the midmas decorations. Some people decorate their houses as soon dle of my family, I am the most content and don’t feel left out. as Halloween comes down, while other people wait reverently When my sister is baking and baking in the kitchen while we until Thanksgiving is over. Some people drown their houses in are all out shopping, she is happy. When my mom goes out Christmas decorations, while some people might be perfectly Christmas shopping all day and she didn’t get to admire the fine with no decorations at all. (But are they really fine?) This is tree during the day, she’s living her best Christmas. And when the yearly debate in our house. My dad is of the belief that the my little brother wraps all his presents in duct tape, that is part Christmas tree and decorations should be up in the first week of his joy of giving Christmas presents. The way that each of of December, while my mom would be fine if we decorated us enjoys Christmas may look like a Christmas tree full of misChristmas Eve. So, I grew up decorating our house for Christ- match ornaments, but when the tree lights come on, the soft mas in mid-December and thought other people decorated glow against the dark room seems to bring it all together. rather early. Since we’re on the subject of Christmas decorations, let’s talk about the actual decorations themselves. I think PSA: Taping lids on clothes boxes with thin clear tape is no way that every family has a special decoration that everybody looks to enjoy Christmas. No one enjoys that.
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SPOTTED SEA TROUT Capt. Woody Gore
ALWAYS A WINTER FAVORITE
Trout fishing time begins to improve during the winter months, especially as the water temperatures start dropping. Here are some tips for fishing these wintertime favorites as they begin showing up on the coastal flats. It’s important to know where you are regarding the zones that separate the regions. Say you’re fishing in the northwest or northeast, southern zone. If you launched in that particular region during an open season, you catch and keep Spotted Sea Trout. Now let’s say you venture into a closed region with the trout you’ve kept. In this case, you have violated the law and could receive a citation. Since trout are semi-territorial, they tend to stay or return to the same areas. So a good rule of thumb is locating brokenbottom grass flats with sandy, rocky bottoms or a combination of both. Trout are notorious bait chasers. They typically chase bait toward and trap them on the surface. This form of surface trapping food works in their favor. And could be attributed to Ivan Pavlov’s learned conditional behavior. As you approach likely areas, continually scan the water keeping your eyes open for feeding fish. When you find them, watch closely to determine if they’re randomly feeding or chasing bait schools. Fishing topwater lures are a hoot. Especially when working with a group of actively feeding fish. Good trout fishing con-
dition is usually distinguished by cloud cover or windy conditions. On the other hand, schooling fish feeding over specific areas usually represents a regular feeding pattern. Even if they’ve had their fill, they may still want something for dessert. That being the case, it’s time to rethink your presentation. Keep reminding yourself trout get highly selective. Instead of fast and irregular, it’s time to slow down, which is difficult and often frustrates anglers. Therefore, make the lure look tempting. For this reason, strikes often come when the lure moves slightly after sitting idle or wobbles slowly across the surface. Another method uses subsurface suspending lures or soft plastics rigged to gradually drop. Remember, when using soft plastics, almost every strike happens as the lures fall toward the bottom. Like many other species, trout stop feeding or scatter when pressured by boats, anglers, or predators. If spooked badly, they’re scattered for the day. With the numbers of boats and anglers racing around our waters, you’d think fish would become familiar with the sound of enormous engines. However, it depends on the whereabouts, water clarity, and depth. The most common error happens when someone carelessly roars into a good trout area, shuts down, and throws out a 15 lb. anchor. Then they sit and wonder where the fish went.
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Member: FOWA-Florida Outdoor Writers Assoc., Member-SEOPA Southeastern Outdoor Press Assoc. CEO/Pres. Sport-Fishing Unlimited & Outdoor Communications, Outdoor Writer, Photojournalist & Speaker
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Regardless of the circumstances, just because the bite slows down doesn’t mean the party’s over. Some fish are there, just recovering from their last big feed. Kind of like us, after a large meal. So enjoy the fact you’re on the water, slow down, relax, pay attention to nature and what you’re doing. Often the bite continues after a few minutes. Remember, it’s called fishing, not catching.
“Give Me a Call & Let’s Go Fishing” Captain Woody Gore is the area’s TOP OUTDOOR FISHING GUIDE SERVICE. He’s guided and fished the Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg areas for over Sixty years. And he offers world-class fishing adventures and memories of a lifetime. Single or Multi-boat Group Charters are all the same. With years of organizational experience, Capt. Woody can arrange and coordinate any outing or tournament. Visit his website at
WWW.CAPTAINWOODYGORE.COM
send an email to wgore@ix.netcom.com, or give him a call at
813-477-3814.
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E n d a n g e r e d S p e c i es
Enduring Florida: Brooksville Bellflower
The Campanula robinsiae, or the Brooksville Bellflower as it’s commonly know, is a small annual herb that grows up to six inches tall and has a deep purple, bell-shaped flowers that are two and a half inches wide. Its leaves are ovate to elliptical and are larger near the base. Many of the flowers are inconspicuous, being closed and self-pollinating. Flowering is in March and April. This beautiful flower was on the Florida endangered plant list until 1994 when efforts to save it from extinction were made. This species, which was first described in 1926, was previously considered an introduced Eurasian species. However, it has now been shown to be a native, narrowly endemic species. The Brooksville bellflower was first discovered on the moist north slope of a hill. Fieldwork in the 1980s showed that the species was primarily found on moist ground at the edges of two nearby ponds. Due to its rarity, any habitat alteration, such as unnatural fluctuations in water level or quality, could be disastrous. The bellflower is known only from three sites in Hernando County. One site is the discovery site on Chinsegut Hill, as well as two other larger sites that are at the margins of nearby ponds. The main threat to the species, apart from unintentional mismanagement of known sites, may be from changes in quality or quantity of surrounding watersheds, which may be contaminated by petroleum products, fertilizers, and herbicides. Because it is so small and short-lived, the Brooksville bellflower may be easily overlooked, and for this reason biologists hope that further searches might reveal additional sites harboring the species.
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The Hernando County development boom of the 1980s and 1990s is also cause for concern; further development, such as a planned Tampa-Jacksonville corridor toll road, which would pass west of Brooksville, would only enhance the threat from construction and community growth.
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By Libby Hopkins
Each year since 1995, Bok Tower Gardens has been performing bellflower counts in each of the remaining populations in order to keep track of the species. Over the years, the number of plants has greatly declined, primarily because the largest population, which once held over a million plants, was destroyed by development. The presence and number of plants each year are highly dependent on winter rainfall and the quality of the habitat. Typically, winter rains fill the ponds and raise the water levels along the banks. By mid-February, the water level has receded, leaving exposed, wet muck that is ideal for the germination of the bellflower. If winter rainfall causes the pond margins to be too dry or too flooded during the critical germination period in mid-February to early March, no germination may occur for that year. Even with ideal winter rainfall, poor quality habitat can prevent germination. Historically, deer, rabbits, and other grazing animals would frequent the pond as a water source and graze on the vegetation, maintaining open areas of soil or muck, and preventing overgrowth of tree and shrub seedlings and grasses. This would allow low ground cover herbs, including the bellflower, the ideal habitat. Although winter rainfall is out of our control, in recent years, the Rare Plant Conservation Program has been working with landowners to improve habitat for the bellflower, and this has helped increase plant numbers. 2021 saw the second-highest number of plants over the past seven years, with 4,382 plants across three populations. Bok Tower Gardens and their Rare Plant Conservation Program continue to work with landowners and project partners to study this species and to work to increase annual plant numbers in the future.
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Tickets On Sale Now! • FLstrawberryfestival.com
Mar. 3 - 13, 2022 • Plant City, FL Artists Appearing on the
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Soundstage:
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Lady A
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Lee Greenwood Wed. Mar. 9, 3:30 $25
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John Anderson
Sammy Hagar & The Circle
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Kenzie Wheeler
Ricky Nelson Remembered
Starring Matthew & Gunnar Nelson Tue. Mar. 8, 3:30 $20
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The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters & The Platters
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Sat. Mar. 5, 3:30 $25
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Zach Williams
The Beach Boys
Thu. Mar. 3, 7:30 $50
Thu. Mar. 3, 3:30 $25
Thu. Mar. 10, 7:30 $35
$20
#berryfest22 Home of OUR
Gene Watson
Fri. Mar. 11, 3:30 $20
Cole Swindell
Fri. Mar. 11, 7:30 $45
Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots
Sat. Mar. 12, 3:30
$35
Nelly
Sat. Mar. 12, 7:30 $30
The Bellamy Brothers Sun. Mar. 13, 3:30 $20
Sam Hunt
Sun. Mar. 13, 7:30 $55
Concert dates and times are subject to change
• T-Mobile • ZYN • Alessi Bakeries • AMSCOT • Astin Farms • Candyland Warehouse • Global Frequency Living • Circle K • Local Ford Dealers • O’Reilly Auto Parts • Grove Equipment Service • Stingray Chevrolet • Uncommon USA • Netterfield’s Concessions • Verizon Wireless • Badcock Home Furniture &More • Good Health Saunas • Dakin Dairy Farms • Krazy Kup • Russell’s Western Wear • DIRECTV • Images Everywhere! • Master Spas • Wyndham Destinations • TRUFFOIRE • DR BROWN’S CBD • Entenmann’s • Portillo’s Hot Dogs • The Bank of Tampa INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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STATE OFFICER Tyler Brannan Florida FFA Area IV State Vice President
tions when they are faced with adversity. I make efforts to tell students that success is not comfortable and to be pushed to our limits and find ourselves is the only way to move forward. If we stop at our comfort zone, then how will we learn to be better for the future.
In 1988, the grand organization that I am proud to call myself apart of, made a change to affect the understanding of what is means to be an agriculturist. After the group of national delegates met at the National FFA Convention and Expo, the organization made a choice to change the name from “Future Farmers of America” to the “National FFA Organization.” This decision was made to reflect the growing diversity and expanding opportunities of the agriculture industry. The diversity and opportunities in Florida agriculture have grown exponentially over the past few decades, showing constant efforts for improvement and inclusion in our state’s association. A part of our efforts is the tradition of chapter visits from our State Officers. Our team has been making strides to travel across the state to visit as many chapters as possible to deliver personalized messages for the students in agriculture classrooms. As part of my chapter programs, I have been assigned primarily programs in Area IV, which is Polk, Orange, Osceola, and Brevard County. However, we often find ourselves partnering our programs with each other and exploring other areas than our own. We have each designed our own programs for the students with the goal of delivering a crucial message that will allow them to better develop their potential for premier leadership, personal growth, and career success. These moments that we spend with the students are some the most impactful and can provide invaluable experience for our members and vocational agriculture environments. The chapter program that I provide for the students entails the ability to overcome adversity in their lives. As agriculturists we endure many of the same challenges and hardships in our career and this is something that I choose to make known to the students. Most of the student I interact with will either be getting ready to enter the world from high school or can remember some struggles they have dealt with growing up through their life. I hone in on these moments and use a tool that I have developed for these students to allow them the chance to stand up to these challenges in the future. I present this tool as their “POA Toolbelt.”
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As often as we encounter challenges in our lives, it can become overwhelming and often feel unbearable at times. These moments push us to our brink and upstir a desire to quit. However, it is our job to use perseverance to stay persistent and hold ourselves upright in these trying times. This is something that agriculturists have pertained to for genera-
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Furthermore, the constant task of overcoming challenges that don’t seem to stop can become dull and unmotivating. That is why I make note to emphasize the importance of optimism in the lives of our students. Many of these students have a hobby, sport, or activity that they invest themselves in. When we do this, we are bound to make mistakes and meet failure. However, when this happens it is quite common to feel moments of belittlement; perhaps, a moment of selfdoubt. I cannot stress the mindset that we must take to make progress in our goals, that is to accept failure. As humans we are unable to avoid failure in our greatest tasks, but it is up to us to look at them and learn for the sake of progress. If we can keep a positive attitude in life and look at the silver lining, then we can continue to challenge ourselves with the intent of progression. Moreover, for thousands of years we have been challenged through the dangers of the unknown. The idea of the unknown intimidates people and creates unwillingness to move towards it. This aspect has primarily hindered the possibilities of agriculture and human evolution. While it can be crucial to be cautious of taking a wrong turn, we have to know when to move past this tension and be adaptable to the unknown scenarios in life. Adaptability has allowed humanity to survive, but today we can use it to thrive and be successful in our dreams. As students move towards their career paths and exit school, they will be faced with many unanswered questions. This will entail a journey that will require adaptability to the toughest moments in their lives where people may not have answers to the unknown. As students begin to understand how to overcome challenges in their lives, I make sure to reemphasize the importance to persevere through tough times, be optimistic when they feel down, and to be adaptable when faced with the unknown. Using this, they can move towards a better future for themselves and those around them. The journey that many students take will be full of challenges and hardships. As agriculturists we understand these moments of adversity that can test our faith and dedication to the goals we set. We all come from various different backgrounds and cultures; yet, we endure the same challenges as agriculturists. Showing there is no mold for a true leader. Often people use the phrase “practice makes perfect,” but this couldn’t be further from the truth. The correct phrase is practice makes improvement. We constantly have something to improve on, and as we move towards our goals we should always strive towards improvement. With that, I hope you can look towards your future and how you can improve it along with the lives of others. Until next time! WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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WHERE FLORIDA FAMILIES GO FOR FUN! Twelve days of fair fun celebrating all things Florida, deep-fried favorites, agriculture, creative art exhibits, shopping and more! The Florida State Fair is the place for family fun and entertainment every February! Join us in 2022 to Find Your FUN!
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The first appearance of a modern Santa Claus, complete with what we consider to be the Santa suit, was in drawings by Thomas Nast. A copywriter named Robert L. May first invented Rudolph in 1939 as a marketing gimmick for Montgomery Ward’s holiday coloring books. (May considered naming the beloved misfit Reginald and Rollo.) His nose wasn’t originally going to be red: A red nose was viewed as a sign of sign of chronic alcoholism, and Montgomery Ward didn’t want him to seem like a drunkard. James Lord Pierpont, an organist from Savannah, GA, first performed a song he wrote, “The One Horse Open Sleigh,” at his church’s Thanksgiving concert. The song was re-published in 1857 and given the title of today. Bonus fact: It’s also the first song broadcast from space. On December 16, 1965, the Gemini 6 crew serenaded Mission Control after they reported seeing a “red-suited” astronaut. Every year, letters to Santa Claus flood post offices across the world. Some Canadian Post Office workers even started answering them — but as more letters arrived, they set up a special zip code for Santa as part of a “Santa Letter-Writing Program” literacy initiative. The zip code? H0H 0H0.
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Old Sayings Every now and then I get a notion to do something cantankerous. The other day I filled up an empty plastic gallon with the “Roundup” label on it full of water. Roundup is about the best weed killer on the market today. I took the gallon of water in the Roundup container down to Home Depot and left it in a shopping basket in the parking lot. Since I was parked across from the basket I decided to wait and see what would happen. In no time a shopper eyes the basket with the container, picks it up, shakes it, looks around, and marches off to his car with container in hand. I have often wondered what he thought when he applied it to his lawn, and nothing happened. Another trick that went around a few years back (I never did this one), kids would take super glue to the fast food restaurant and put it on the bottom of a saltshaker. I must admit I did the same thing to a nickel in the parking lot at Wal-Mart. I had a friend as child named John. He was always up to something. John got a real good spanking for tying a string on a cats tail with Mason jar lids attached to the end. That cat almost drove itself crazy trying to get it off. School teachers can tell you some good ones about their students, especially the first graders. One said, “I had a student rush in all excited to tell me that her ancestors came over on the cauliflower.” My neighbor tells the story that at her grandmother’s funeral, when the priest asked for a moment of silence to remember her grandmother, her 5 year old brother, amidst all the silence and hushed crying, saw the priest lighting candles and started singing at the top of his lungs, “Happy Birthday To You, Happy Birthday To You!”
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Sometimes dads aren’t helpful. This guy writes, “The neighbor kid and I built a catapult-type contraption and promptly launched something right into my forehead and split it open. My parents rushed me to the ER. I was pretty freaked out because they tended to be calm people but this was intense for me. As I lay on the ex-
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Editor’s Note: This Rocking Chair Chatter was originally printed in the December 2017 issue
amination table surrounded by a curtain, my dad walks in, takes a long look at me and then shakes his head and said ‘Looks pretty bad, they said they’re going to have to amputate.’” Children’s Science Exam Answers These are real answers given by children. Q: Name the four seasons. A: Salt, pepper, mustard and vinegar. Q: Explain one of the processes by which water can be made safe to drink. A: Flirtation makes water safe to drink because it removes large pollutants like grit, sand, dead sheep and canoeists. Q: How is dew formed? A: The sun shines down on the leaves and makes them perspire. Q: How can you delay milk turning sour A: Keep it in the cow. Q: What causes the tides in the oceans? A: The tides are a fight between the Earth and the Moon. All water tends to flow towards the moon, because there is no water on the moon, and nature hates a vacuum. I forget where the sun joins in this fight. Q: What are steroids? A: Things for keeping carpets still on the stairs. Q: What happens to your body as you age? A: When you get old, so do your bowels and you get intercontinental. Q: What happens to a boy when he reaches puberty? A: He says goodbye to his boyhood and looks forward to his adultery. Q: Name a major disease associated with cigarettes. A: Premature death. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
Q: How are the main parts of the body categorized? (e.g., abdomen.) A: The body is consisted into three parts - the brainium, the borax and the abdominal cavity. The brainium contains the brain; the borax contains the heart and lungs, and the abdominal cavity contains the five bowels, A, E, I, O, and U. Q: What is the fibula A: A small lie. Q: What does “varicose” mean? A: Nearby. Q: Give the meaning of the term “Caesarean Section” A: The Caesarean Section is a district in Rome. Q: What does the word “benign” mean?’ A: Benign is what you will be after you be eight. A second-grader wrote: During the Renaissance America began. Christopher Columbus was a great navigator who discovered America while cursing about the Atlantic. His ships were called the Nina, the Pinta, and the Santa Fe. Later the Pilgrims crossed the Ocean, and this was called the Pilgrim’s Progress. When they landed at Plymouth Rock, and were greeted by Indians, who came down the hill rolling their war hoops before them. The Indian squabs carried porposies on their back. Many of the Indian heroes were killed, along with their cabooses, which proved very fatal to them. The winter of 1620 was a hard one for the settlers. Many people died and many babies were born. Captain John Smith was responsible for all this. Lastly, Abraham Lincoln became America’s greatest Precedent. Lincoln’s mother died in infancy, and he was born in a log cabin, which he built with his own hands. When Lincoln was President, he wore only a tall silk hat. He said, ‘In onion there is strength.’ Abraham Lincoln wrote the Gettysburg address while traveling from Washington to Gettysburg on the back of an envelope. I guess kids will be kids no matter how old they are.
Free Roundup/Water?
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Big or small, we have toys for all this holiday season!
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FLORIDA KABOCHA SQUASH
By Sandy Sun, M.S. Clinical Medicines, B.S. Nutrition Science Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin, is a type of winter squash and a member of the Cucurbita maxima family. Like the other winter squashes, kabocha is available year-round, but is at its peak in late fall and winter. This type of squash grows easily in Florida. Kabocha weighs about two to three pounds on average. The squash rind is dark green with bumpy skin and is not only edible, but also an excellent source of dietary fiber. The internal flesh is a bright, vibrant orange. Once cooked, the flesh is soft, flaky, and sweet. The flavor is similar to a combination of sweet potato and pumpkin. This fruit is also very nutritious, with plenty of nutrients including beta carotene and vitamin C. Kabocha is often enjoyed in soups and side dishes and can be incorporated into desserts.
Nutrition Information Kabocha squash is high in vitamins and minerals and low in calories. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Nutrient Database for Standard Reference, one cup of fresh boiled, drained kabocha squash (245 g) contains 34 calories, 1 g of protein, 0.13 g of fat, 8.6 g of carbohydrate, and 1.5 g of fiber. It provides 46% of the recommended daily requirement for vitamin A, 21% for vitamin C, 7% for iron, and 7% for potassium. Kabocha squash is also a good source of magnesium, folate, phosphorus, and dietary fiber.
Fiber Research has shown that dietary fiber has a protective effect against cardiovascular diseases by lowering blood cholesterol levels and slowing the progression of heart disease in high-risk individuals. Fiber also assists with digestion and prevents constipation. As with many other vegetables, kabocha squash contains a significant amount of dietary fiber, which can help with weight loss by helping you stay full with very few calories. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a diet high in fiber may decrease the risk of several types of cancer including colon, rectum, breast, and pancreas.
Iron Kabocha is a fantastic vegetarian source of iron. Iron is an essential mineral that plays many important functions in the body. Iron is a component of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen around to the entire body. When iron is too low in the body, you may develop iron deficiency anemia.
Kabocha squash is very high in vitamin A, which plays a role in vision health and also acts as an antioxidant. Antioxidants are compounds with the ability to neutralize free radicals, which are harmful by-products of metabolism that can lead to disease. Antioxidants may reduce the risk of some diseases, including several forms of cancer.
How to Select and Store Choose a squash that feels heavy and firm for its size with a dry, intact stem. The skin should be intact with no soft spots. Kabocha squash can be stored for up to four months in a cool, dry place. Once cut, refrigerate and use within four days.
How to Enjoy Kabocha is delicious roasted, braised or simmered. It can be used as an alternative to butternut or acorn squash or potatoes, as well as in desserts. Other ways to enjoy this delicious squash include: • Blend mashed squash into yogurt or a smoothie • Mix chunks or puree into soups or stews • Use puree in pancakes, breads, cookies • Roast the seeds with olive oil and salt for a healthy snack high in amino acids and zinc • Cut out the top, scoop out the seeds, and roast the entire squash. Then use it as a serving bowl for soup, stew, or chili • Cut into chunks, then roast in the oven for an easy side dish • Grate raw squash and toss into any vegetable salad • Cut kabocha in half, scoop out the seeds, and stuffed with grains, bacon, meat, or cheese and bake in oven • Mash and enjoy as a healthy alternative to mashed potatoes Enjoy fresh Florida kabocha squash today!
Selected References http://www.whfoods.com http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/
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Vitamin A
New UF/IFAS Research Shows
“Social Bonding” Among Gardeners Aids Community Garden Sustainability By Jim Frankowiak
Producing food locally has led to the development of community gardens across the country, but not all of these gardens thrive. A study by the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) shows that by bringing people together to plant, tend and harvest fruits and vegetables, these gardens let people bond while providing nutritious food, said Paul Monaghan, a UF/IFAS associate professor of agricultural education and communication. “Community gardens are a way for residents to get to know their neighbors, build friendships and come to look out for one another,” said Monaghan, who supervised a new study on how to establish and maintain such gardens. Social bonds among gardeners can help sustain community gardens. The study also shows that networking with other garden groups, governing boards and nonprofit agencies can solve problems that inevitably arise. Those issues can include access to suitable land, water, tools and gardening advice. With funding from the UF/IFAS Center for Land Use Efficiency, Karissa Raskin, conducted the research as part of her master’s thesis. She measured the concepts of “bonding,” “bridging” and “linking,” all facets of social capital. Researchers use the term “social capital” to describe the investment individuals and communities make in interpersonal relationships. Like putting money in the bank, people can build up social capital by contributing time, energy, skills or other resources to those relationships with the hope of future cooperation and reciprocation. Raskin interviewed community garden volunteers during focus groups in Hillsborough, Orange, Manatee, Polk and Duval counties. She also visited gardeners around the state and even started her own community vegetable garden in an underserved neighborhood of Gainesville — all to gain insight into what makes a garden successful.
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Raskin saw examples of all forms of social capital within the gardens she examined. “Bonding capital” was the most prominent. The majority of the research participants spoke about the strong relationships cultivated within their gardens, referencing these bonds as being critical to the garden’s success and a key reason for their own personal involvement. One participant illustrated the benefits of “bonding social capital” this way: “I meet people that are my neighbors that I
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never knew…and we are doing a lot of other things together, you know, biking together and doing other activities…now we have a kids playgroup, it’s really cool, there is just so much going on.” Raskin also saw several examples of “bridging social capital.” This type of capital comes about through such activities as church membership or volunteering for neighborhood associations. A key benefit of bridging capital is that it brings together people with different backgrounds and skill sets to contribute their knowledge, time and labor to achieve a mutual goal. On the other hand, “linking social capital” comes when you reach out to those with more power over decision-making, such as local governments, to solve problems and provide access to resources. It can be the most difficult type to attain because it relies on building connections between individuals and institutions outside of one’s network. Raskin concluded that those who offer support to community gardens, including UF/IFAS Extension, can learn strategies by focusing on the forms of social capital. We can leverage social capital in a number of ways: by tapping into the local knowledge and resources shared by neighbors, gaining support for Extension programming within communities, raising awareness of local government to the benefits of community agriculture and education and even taking local elected officials on garden tours. Sharing information among various gardens – whether they’re neighboring or far away — through newsletters and tours and forming gardening associations also can increase chances for success, Monaghan said. “Those who wish to support and nurture community gardens don’t always need to know about seeds, soil and pest management,” he said. “They can be organizers who also help with the local political process and help gardeners collaborate with other partners.” Raskin leveraged her research into a position with the city of Gainesville in the Office of Strategic Initiatives. She now helps neighborhoods and residents make connections to find the resources to solve problems such as food insecurity. “Now I use the tools and experiences that I gained from my master’s degree every day in my work,” said Raskin. “It really is about strengthening the social connections among people.” WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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6 ANNUAL 20 BUCK TRUCK TH
By Tiffany Dale
For a mere twenty dollars, a brand new custom 2022 Chevrolet Crew Cab 3500 Flatbed can be yours! Yes, you read that correctly, only twenty dollars. What? Why? How, you might ask? For local youth in agriculture. For the past six years, Kelley Buick GMC of Bartow has donated a one-of-a-kind custom truck as a raffle to benefit the local 4-H and FFA members and chapters to grow. The Kelley family believes in giving back to the community and sees the value of supporting youth in agriculture, just as they were once involved as young agriculture students. Derrick and Tyler Kelley wanted to take the company’s efforts to the next level in supporting local youth in agriculture beyond purchasing livestock projects and add-on donations. This led the Kelley family to create the Twenty Buck Truck Raffle. This raffle provides donation opportunities for FFA and 4-H chapters across Polk and Hardee counties through the sale of raffle tickets at 20bucktruck.com.
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Each year, supporters are eager for the reveal of the custom Twenty Buck Truck. As the 2022 Twenty Buck Truck Raffle ticket is drawn, the truck for the next year’s drawing will be revealed. To further show support for agriculture, the raffle occurs every year on National Farmer’s Day, October 12th. This year’s winner will be cruising around town or the ranch in
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a custom 2022 Chevrolet Crew Cab 3500 Flatbed. The Kelley family goes the extra mile to work on sponsorships beyond their donation of the truck to make this truck something special with custom features. Throughout the year, the Kelley Buick GMC team of Bartow ensures that the Twenty Buck Truck is on display at various events within the community. Events and locations where you might see the Twenty Buck Truck include: youth fairs, cattle auctions, various community events, and local businesses. In efforts to showcase the truck and cause, the truck can be requested to be on display at events by contacting Kelley Buick GMC in Bartow. If 2022 is not your lucky year to be the 2022 Twenty Buck Truck winner, don’t fret, the future is bright for the Twenty Buck Truck. The Kelley family wholeheartedly supports and believes in this program and looks forward to keeping it going for years to come. For six years, they have been able to donate 100 percent of donations to 4-H and FFA chapters, as well as Warrior Beach Retreat, Inc. Twenty Buck Truck tickets can be purchased online at 20bucktruck.com. Purchasers are eligible within the United States and do not have to be present at the drawing to win. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
The amount has steadily grown throughout the years, and last year they sold approximately 4,000 tickets. “Kelley Buick GMC challenges all businesses to support youth in agriculture since they are our future farmers after all. We believe in reinvesting our customers’ money back into the community, which is why we encourage everyone to shop local,” said Tyler Kelley.
SCAN HERE TO BUY TICKETS
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Visit 20bucktruck.com to view all the details and remember for $20, you will not only be furthering the local youth in agriculture, but you could also be in the driver’s seat of the custom ride!
UF/IFAS SCIENTISTS STUDYING NEW
POTTED BOSTON FERN FUNGUS;
SEEK INVOLVEMENT OF CONSUMERS AND NURSERIES By Jim Frankowiak
Researchers at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) have identified a new genus and species of fungus, found in potted Boston fern plants. Scientists want to know more about the fungus – such as its cause. They believe they’ll find cause with help from the nursery industry and consumers. The fungus, called Asperosporus subterraneus, was brought to the UF/IFAS Tropical Research and Education Center (TREC) by two South Florida nurseries in 2017 and 2018. Researchers at the center’s Plant Diagnostic Clinic believe that while there is no indication that the fungus can kill the plant because there was no evidence of contact with the roots, the species deserves more investigation. The team that identified the fungus is asking nurseries and consumers to help look for the fungus in potted plants so scientists can continue their investigation. Additional spread of the fungus can lower the economic impact of this popular plant, which is grown and sold extensively in Florida and across southern states by the ornamental nursery industry. “The good news is that we do not believe it is a pathogen that will lead to disease for the Boston fern, but we need more data to determine the cause,” said Elena Karlsen-Ayala, a doctoral student of plant pathology who co-authored the finding with Romina Gazis, an assistant professor at TREC and director of its Plant Diagnostic Clinic, and Matthew Smith, an associate professor in plant pathology in Gainesville. Scientists published their findings in the latest issue of Fungal Systematics and Evolution.
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Additional spread of the fungus can lower the economic impact of this popular plant, which is grown and sold extensively in Florida and across southern states by the ornamental nursery industry.
Photo cutline: A sample of the white mat symptom binding organic matter in one of the potted Boston Ferns leaves due to a lack of chlorophyll. This is called chlorosis. There is an unpleasant odor that comes with the fungus. But the most obvious sign is found when the fern is removed from the pot. It is there that a white mat of the fungus will surround the outer surface of the soil, binding the organic matter and preventing the plant’s roots from accessing water and nutrients. This causes the surface symptoms. Fruiting bodies of the truffle-like fungus can also be found at the base of the soil.
“To determine how common and widely distributed this fungus is within the nursery production, we encourage producers to inspect their potted tropical foliage and contact us at the Plant Diagnostic Clinic if they find the truffle-like fungus,” said Gazis.
Florida is a leading state in the production of foliage plants, like Boston ferns and they are popular among consumers, often found on raised planters or hanging pots. These easyto-grow plants produce lush masses of long, narrow, green leaves that make them a desirable ground cover creating a dense, tropical look in landscapes. However, on the occasion, these plants can be subject to fungi and fungal diseases.
Gazis recommends homeowners also inspect their potted Boston ferns for symptoms. Homeowners are asked to work with their local UF/IFAS Extension offices, which are in all 67 counties. Use the following website https://sfyl.ifas.ufl.edu/ to determine if the samples require collecting and testing. Visible symptoms to look out for on the surface of potted plants include wilted leaves and yellowing of normally green
Researchers believe there are several favorable conditions that can foster the growth and spread of the fungus including potting soil containing peat moss and pine bark. Their next steps are to better understand the growth and spread of the fungus and determine if this is an introduced fungus. This will help develop effective management strategies for nurseries to prevent financial losses due to unmarketable plants.
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Sign up
for a FREE On-Farm Readiness Review The Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) Produce Safety Rule (PSR) inspections have begun. Sign up now to request a free On-Farm Readiness Review (OFRR), offered in partnership by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services and University of Florida IFAS. The OFRR is an educational opportunity to help individual farms align practices with the PSR regulatory requirements in preparation for inspections.
For more information on FSMA and to sign up for an OFRR, visit FDACS.gov/FSMA or call (863) 578-1900. To take full advantage of the OFRR and for PSR compliance, one farm representative should first attend a Produce Safety Alliance Grower Training. Upcoming trainings can be found at: crec.ifas.ufl.edu/extension/events
This publication is supported by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of a financial assistance award U2FFD007446 totaling $1,179,719 with 100 percent funded by FDA/HHS. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by FDA/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
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By Grady Judd, Polk County Sheriff
THE AG
Agriculture has long been a major part of Polk County’s charm, economy, and history. We obviously don’t have as many citrus groves and livestock pastures as we once did, but there is still a great presence here. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office is proud to do everything that can be done to protect the agricultural community against crimes and to aid and provide services and support where needed. According to the USDA’s ag-census report for 2017, Polk County has more than 2,000 farms with a total of more than 450,000 acres. That’s a lot of land, structures, and livestock, meaning, there is potential for a lot of problems. As many of you know, the PCSO has a group of deputies who specialize in working with farmers. The Agriculture Crimes Unit not only investigates crimes against the agriculture community, but they also help in other situations such as trying to reunite loose livestock with their owners, and notifying property owners of fences that have been damaged by car crashes or storms. When a cow gets loose and onto a road, people immediately call the Sheriff’s Office, and our deputies respond quickly. The last thing we want is for someone driving down the road getting into a crash with an escaped animal. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office maintains what we refer to as, “The Ag-Files.” The name makes it sound like some farfetched TV show, but in reality, it’s a list we keep of livestock owners and their contact information, in case an emergency occurs with their property or livestock.
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Once a loose animal is reported, and the deputy arrives on scene, that deputy is going to do what he or she can to get that animal back home safely. The deputy will attempt to determine how the animal got out. Usually, it is a break in the fencing. If the deputy is able to, the animal will be shepherded back through the fence, and then try to repair the fence,
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FILES
so the animal cannot escape again. Other times, the deputy can access the Ag-Files, locate the owner of the animal, and make contact. The best-case scenario is that the owner will arrive quickly, capture the animal, and repair the fence. Obviously, the quicker we can return an animal to its home, the better. We don’t wanting animals to get hurt, and we certainly don’t want people getting hurt either. If a loose animal causes someone to crash their car, and suffer a subsequent injury, the owner of that animal could eventually find themselves being sued, and nobody wants that. These examples show why it is important for livestock owners to communicate with the Sheriff’s Office, and get listed in our agency’s Ag-Files. With the information at the fingertips of our deputies, the process can move along quickly, and the safety of all involved is much more likely. Deputies are also able to utilize the Ag-Files in the event of other unfortunate events, such as a crime occurring on a landowner’s property, a fire, a crash, or who knows, maybe even a meteor crashing down in an orange grove. Hey, it could happen. Our Ag-Files are always in need of being updated. If you have one of the orange and white No Trespassing signs from the Sheriff’s Office, and you haven’t had contact with us in a while, call us up, make sure all of the contact information we have for you is up-to-date. If you don’t have one of the orange and white signs, and you’d like one, call us. You don’t have to have a farm, or grove, to have one. Anyone who owns property can get one. Not only are they good to let people know that they need to stay out, but it makes it a lot easier for our deputies to contact you in the event of an emergency. If you want to update your information, request a sign, or get more information, call our Ag Unit at 863-298-7205. The Sheriff’s Office members take pride in their service to the people, and animals, of Polk County, and our Ag-Files is just another way we can provide that service better. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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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®
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NEWS BRIEFS
Compiled by Jim Frankowiak
NRCS ANNOUNCES CONSERVATION FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRODUCERS AND LANDOWNERS
The US, Department of Agriculture (USDA) has announced assistance programs for Ag producers and private landowners for key, conservation programs. The USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) provides technical and financial assistance to help producers and landowners make conservation improvements on their land that benefit natural resources, build resiliency and contribute to the nation’s broader effort to combat the impacts of climate damage. For more information on programs and applications, visit: www.nrcs.usda.gov.
USDA AWARDS FLORIDA $500,000 GRANT FOR NEW STRESS AWARENESS AND REDUCTION INITIATIVE The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) a $500,000 grant to carry out a new Farm Sress Awareness and Reduction initiative in Florida. With the grant award, FDACS will launch an outreach campaign to help raise awareness about mental health and to promote existing and expanded services to farm and rural communities the state. FDACS will also partner with UF/IFAS to train public school agriculture teachers, 4-H and FFA members and others to recognize the signs of farm stress and to connect with mental health services in their areas.
Growers are asked to contact Gene McAvoy, Regional Vegetable Extension Agent IV Emeritus at 239-658-3414 or at gmcavoy@ifas.ufl.edu; or Craig Frey, at 863-674-4092 or at craigfrey@ufl.edu to receive a copy.
AFBF FOUNDATION HELPING CREATE AWARENESS OF AGRITOURISM VENUES The American Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture wants to help farmers and agritourism entrepreneurs through the introduction of the American Farm Trail app. Interested parties are encouraged to sign up at no charge to showcase their agritourism operation or tour to new visitors. Farmers and attractions can create their own profile showcasing their operation, history, products and more. Tourists using the app will be able to search by area, type of attraction, etc. The foundation hopes to launch American Farm Trails next spring and is currently searching for agritourism stops to add to the app. For more information or to sign up, visit: agfoundation.org. The foundation has also announced availability of a new book that offers facts about food in America, how and where it is grown and who produces our food. “Food and Farm Facts” can be purchased by visiting: dmsfulfillment.com/farmbureau. Copies of the 32-page book are $4.25 each along with a pocket guide that highlights content of the book.
RESEARCHERS INVESTIGATING SORREL AS NEW FLORIDA CROP UF/IFAS researchers are assessing sorrel to determine its potential for commercial growth in Florida. Sorrel is a leafy green plant with reddish-pink flowers. It is hardy, fast growing and has a variety of uses. UF/IFAS Extension agents, in collaboration with the University of the Virgin Islands and central Florida farmers are growing to research plots of the crop to understand its potential for commercial growth in Florida. The work is funded by a U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) grant.
DISTRICT OFFERS YEAR ROUND WATER CONSERVATION INFORMATION
UF/IFAS VEGETABLE PRODUCTION HANDBOOK NOW AVAILABLE The University of Florida (UF) Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (IFAS) 2021-2022 vegetable `production handbook is in stock for Florida producers. The 19-chapter handbook, which is updated every production season, provides guidance on vegetable production throughout Florida.
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) urges year-round water conservation. Water levels may rise and fall, but our water resources remain limited. The District encourages efficient, non-wasteful uses of water to sustain our high quality of life. For more information about ways to conserve water, contact the District at 1-800-423-1476 or visit the District’s website at: watermatters.org.
The handbook also includes extensive pesticide tables for each crop that is covered. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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Christmas! A Special Time To Celebrate by John Dicks
It’s that time of year, again.
Yes, it’s Christmas and New Year’s. It’s holiday time! Do you detect a note of excitement in my tone? Sure you do. It’s easy to spot. I’m a big fan of Christmas. Growing up, I generally just thought that everyone loved Christmas. The spiritual and sanctity of it was always divine. So, too, was the gatherings of family and friends. Even the lesser important accompaniments of fancy foods and delightful treats have always been something to look forward to. As years have passed, though, and time has aged and matured us, I’ve come to know that not the entire world shares my faith, my interests, nor even my taste and desire for Mom’s famous Walnut Chocolate Chip Pie. To those dear friends who might recognize themselves in a different religion, faith, or philosophy, it’s a wonderful reflection of the season simply to express respect for the beliefs and traditions of each other. That’s really what this season suggests. As for Christmas itself, I find it fascinating to recognize the similar traditions we share with others around the world and yet contrast those with what are considered unique compared with our own. It came into focus many years ago when a work trip carried me to Hawaii for the holidays. Surprised, yet delighted I was to watch and listen to, while in the tropical paradise, children who were caroling with our customary favorites of Sleigh Ride and even Frosty The Snowman! Christmas trees were abundant, too, but there were many, many more made with stacked poinsettias than there were of the Fraser firs that I had always preferred. Nonetheless, Hawaii succeeded in getting me into the Holiday spirit, even if it did have me incessantly singing, I’ll Be Home For Christmas, which fortunately I was able to do.
Celebrating Christmas in some other parts of the world no doubt has Santa Claus scratching his head in bewilderment. In Germany, for example, where one of my sons once spent the holidays while on deployment, his report was that the country revels in the tradition of Christmas Markets. Well lit with string lights and a festive atmosphere filled and fueled by local breweries it seems like every city, town, village, and hamlet is packed with celebration. Supposedly, too, there is the German tradition of placing a pickle in the tree. It’s hidden with the decorations and whichever child happens to find it (perhaps by smell?) is rewarded with a special gift. Not be outdone, legend has it that folks in South Africa, just as we do here, enjoy a fine family meal on Christmas Day. One difference, though, is that the highlight of the feast is to eat fried caterpillars of the Pine Tree Emperor Moth! Well, at least that’s the story I’ve heard for years. I must admit, though, that a few years ago, when I visited South Africa, again for work and it happened around the holidays, I never found a single soul to admit to the tradition. Of course here in America, most of how we celebrate the season has much to do with the weather. While in Florida we’ve enjoyed swimming and kayaking on this special day, but there were those couple of times when work had me spending some of the Christmas holidays in Vermont. Talk about singing I’m Dreaming Of A White Christmas, it was certainly appropriate to do so there! Thankfully, our family gathered there, too, which made for a wonderful memory. Imagine putting a fire in the fireplace without even having to, Florida style, crank down the air conditioner to do so! Yes, we did, indeed, sing, many times, Chestnuts Roasting On An Open Fire! For the rest of my years though, so far at least, Christmas has been spent back home, here in Florida. Frankly, and probably just like you, I wouldn’t want it any other way! I wish you a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!
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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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THE TRENDY FARMER
Haylee and Josh Pugh were high school sweethearts who recently married. Haylee considers herself to be a “farmer’s daughter.” “We both work for my father, Steven Mathis, at Mathis Farms, Inc. With that being said, you can say I have strong roots in agriculture with being a farmer’s daughter and working in it first hand to carry on our family business,” Pugh said. “My husband, alongside my brother, works as our farm managers. We farm around 200 acres of strawberries, blueberries, eggplant and squash. I work as our business secretary, as well as managing our warehouse facility, Mathis Farms Cooling & Shipping Company, where I also do vegetable brokering and sales for our farm and some other local farmers around the area.” Steven Mathis established Mathis Farms, Inc. in 1982. Mathis Farms has over 200 acres of fresh strawberries, blueberries and a variety of vegetables in the small town of Plant City. The goal of Mathis Farms is to deliver over the top quality produce. They value the importance of farm fresh fruits and vegetables and are dedicated into giving their consumers the best. “Being raised in an agricultural family, I have always been involved in seeing the day-to-day operations of running a business in agriculture,” Pugh said. “Along with that, you are apart of an agricultural community where you see good times as well as hard times.”
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Pugh wanted to take her agriculture knowledge and to do something different. She decided to start her own agriculture business called The Trendy Farmer. “The Trendy Farmer is an idea I got back in 2017 to create a platform that shares a little inside of what goes on a family farm, to create awareness to local produce, local farming families and to basically make farming trendy again,” Pugh said. “I want people to understand where their food comes from because I think it’s so important to know who is growing your food. When the supply chain issues hit recently, I got motivated to move forward and turn my idea into reality to supply local produce to the community and making it more affordable than the stores.”
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By Libby Hopkins
You can find The Trendy Farm and their Byrd Boxes at the Lakeland Downtown Farmers’ Curb Market on the weekends. “The Byrd Box is a mixed produce box that I created to bring a variety of local produce to my consumers at the fraction of the price you’d pay in the grocery stores,” Pugh said. “Ever since I was little, my family has called me ‘Haylee Byrd’ so, I figured the Byrd box was fitting! I wanted to create a box that had some staple items people carry on a weekly basis but mix it with some different items each week for people to try a variety of local produce out of their norm. My feedback has been amazing at the market! Everyone loves the name and are so intrigued with the idea of a simple ‘grab and go’ box that doesn’t require a lot of thought.” The Trendy Farmer is a market favorite too. “I have always been intrigued with the market in Downtown Lakeland,” Pugh said. “The main reason I wanted to get involved in a market outside of Plant City is to share with a different community what farming is all about. Since Plant City is a larger agriculture community, being exposed to a farmer and farming family is pretty casual and normal. But outside of Plant City, strawberry farmers aren’t as common and it’s intriguing to people what we do. I think it’s crazy, that just one city over, people are unaware of how much involvement Plant City has in the food chain. My favorite part of the market is meeting new people and getting to share with them what we do.” Keeping things local is extremely important to Pugh. “I feel like if more big businesses focused on buying local, especially produce, we’d see the farming community thrive again,” Pugh said. I find it important for people to understand that buying from local farmers is a safer, more sustainable and affordable option when it comes to you as a consumer.” If you would like to learn more about The Trendy Farmer, you can visit their Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TheTrendy-Farmer. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
JOINT USDA/FDACS GRANT TO AID BETTER BEGONIA PRODUCTION Photos courtesy of Matthew Creech, UF/IFAS
DISTRICT OFFERS SIX HOLIDAY WATER/MONEY-SAVING TIPS By Jim Frankowiak
The Southwest Florida Water Management District (District) is offering six easy ways to prepare for holiday meals and parties without wasting water and running up your water bill.
Begonias are among the top five most popular plants found in flower beds and Florida leads the way in production with sales valuing more than $11.8 million, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). But heat waves and drought have hurt begonia production in the southeast U.S. and many varieties cannot withstand the high heat and humidity Florida summers bring. The UF/IFAS researchers are working to find a begonia that can withstand the pressures of a changing climate thanks to a joint grant of $175,000 from USDA Agricultural Marketing Service and Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). Heat and humidity are the two major factors that put stress on begonias. Even if growers use shade and electric cooling to combat heat stress, the plant’s stress response to heat limits its marketability in the landscape. The results of the project will benefit gardening enthusiasts, private breeders, botanists and nursery growers in Florida and beyond. Understanding how the species responds to harsh environmental conditions will allow scientists to identify and select the most suitable begonia for enhanced stress tolerance. The problem reaches beyond Florida. Growers in both tropical and subtropical regions have had issues breeding and successfully growing the plants. The project team includes several UF/IFAS collaborators; David Norman, professor of plant pathology at UF/ IFAS MREC, Sandra Wilson, professor of environmental horticulture and Brooke Moffis, UF/IFAS Extension Lake County horticulture agent.
• Defrost frozen foods in the refrigerator or the microwave instead of running hot water over them. • Rinse vegetables and fruits in a sink or pan filled with water instead of under running water. This water can then be reused to water houseplants. A running faucet can use up to 4 gallons per minute. • When washing dishes by hand, fill one sink or basin with soapy water and fill the rinsing sink one-third to one-half full. Avoid letting the water run continuously in the rinsing sink. • Select the proper size pans for cooking. Large pans require more cooking water than may be necessary. • Scrape food scraps into the garbage can or a composting bin, rather than rinsing them into the sink’s garbage disposal. A garbage disposal uses up to 4.5 gallons of water per minute. • Run your dishwasher only when you have a full load. Dishwashers use between 7 and 12 gallons per load.
For more water conservation tips, visit the District’s website at: watermatters.org/conservation.
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During the holidays, water plays a role in everything from food preparation to the cleanup process. Here’s how to incorporate water conservation into your holiday preparations:
A Closer LookAmazing Activities Naturally
by Sean Green
Sock Gnome
Have you ever wondered what to do with your mismatched socks? I can tell you they drive me crazy and I hate keeping them long enough to find the matches. I found a fun way to repurpose those mismatched socks to share with our readers. A sock gnome makes a great gift for the holidays but is also great decoration for anyone that appreciates the high fantasy genre that includes gnomes, wizards, trolls, dragons and other mythical creatures. Your imagination will be the only factor limiting the possibilities and there is a good chance the mundane mismatches can become part of the holiday magic.
Materials:
• Mismatches (socks, mittens,) • Stuffing (rice, beans, cloth) • Scissors • Ribbon • Waxed twine • Craft Wire • Craft Fur • Rubber bands (small) • Heavy duty sewing needle (nail will work too) DIRECTIONS: Cut the front of the sock off to the heel (this will be the gnomes body) Enclose a generous amount of rice into a sheet of plastic wrap securing it with a small rubber band on top
Attach the nose to the body Tie the nose to the body with the waxed twine
Create the beard Cut a rectangle of craft fur wide enough to go half way around the body and long enough to reach the bottom of the body. Run a length of waxed twine through each corner of the beard Tie the beard to the body just under the nose Make the body Stuff the rice into the front of the sock that was cut earlier and tie the top with waxed twine
Create the hat Cut a few inches from the top of an old sock (I used a dress sock) Turn the sock inside out and sew the cut part together in the shape you want the hat, leave the original top of the sock open Turn the hat right side out again and tack it to the body with a few simple stiches on each side.
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Make the nose Stuff a smaller piece of cloth with rice and tie with a longwaxed twine, ** Note keep the twine long enough to tie around the body in the next step **
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A Closer Look A Closer Look
by Sean Green Photo Credit: April Green
Grizzled Mantis (Gonatista grisea)
Of all the insects that can be found and observed the mantis is arguably the coolest. It’s got raptor like arms and attacks with the speed of a ninja. The mantis is one of nature’s most effective insect predators. It can fly it can crawl or a can lie in wait, perfectly camouflaged from its intended victim. These insects are not as common as most but are a real treat when they can be found. On a recent night hike I lead at alderman’s Ford Conservation Park in Plant City, we found a grizzled mantis resting on an oak tree almost perfectly camouflaged against the bark of the tree. This species is difficult to find because they not only camouflage against tree bark, but also mimic the lichen that grow on bark. This month we will take a closer look at the grizzled mantis (Gonatista grisea) Many of our readers will be familiar with the insect commonly called the “praying mantis,” a large insect with a triangular head with large eyes that stands up on its hind legs and folds its enlarged front legs in a manner that resembles prayer. These general characteristics are responsible for the insect’s common name “praying mantis” but are by no means characteristic of all mantis species, in fact, it may come as a surprise, but the beloved mantids closest relatives include cockroaches which share some physical characteristics with the mantids. Nobody knows exactly how many species of mantis there are in the world. Some sources such as the “Tree of Life Project” estimate over 2,400 species in the insect order Mantodea, however, the projects website has not been updated since 2011 and can only offer a rough estimate of the current world’s population of mantis. What is known, however, is that mantids, as a group, tend to thrive in warm tropical environments such as Florida. Some mantids commonly found in the United States were originally introduced from other countries. The Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis) and the European Mantis (Mantis religiosa) for example were introduced to North America near the turn of the 20th century and soon became a popular means of biologic pest control. The mantis we are featuring this month is a Florida native and a bit smaller than those we know as “praying mantis,” but do not let its size fool you, our native grizzled mantis (Gonatista grisea) is a formidable predator. Like other mantids, the grizzled mantis has a triangular head that can rotate 180 degrees in either direction and have excellent eyesight, in fact, they
The mantids sense of hearing is a truly extraordinary adaptation that gives the mantid an advantage over other insects the bat may target for food. For most insects, any measure of hearing is limited to detecting basic vibrations. The mantis, however, is one of only a handful of insects that have evolved to have an ear like structure called a tympanal organ. In the mantis, this organ is sensitive to frequencies above 20 kHz (ultrasound). Bats emit sounds that range from 10 kHz to 120 kHz and the mantis has evolved to not only hear the bat following them but also know the precise moment the bat will attack. Dr. David Yager, a neuroscientist at the University of Maryland, in College Park, is credited with the discovery of the mantids extraordinary auditory capability through his study of the interactions of predator and prey. Yager explains that as a bat nears its prey, it increases the tempo of its ultrasonic pulses to peak in a “feeding buzz” just before striking. The tympanal organ in the mantis is sensitive to the ultrasonic pulses the bat uses for echolocation and when the “strike buzz” is detected, the mantis will abort its mating flight and spiral down to the safety of the ground where bats are less effective. The grizzled mantis (Gonatista grisea) is a fascinating insect and always a joy to find but not always easy to locate. If you are fortunate enough to find one, they make a terrific addition to the garden, but I must caution you, they are indiscriminate predators and will prey on a pollinator as readily as a pest insect. The next time you are out on a hike, take a closer look at the bark on oak trees and pine trees, and pay especially close attention to the lichen, you may find what you thought was lichen is actually a grizzled mantis. INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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are one of the few insects that have “stereo-vision” meaning they can focus both eyes on a single object to judge distance with much more accuracy than other insects. Their antennae give them a sense of smell, but like many other insects it is mostly limited to the detection of pheromones emitted by the female for reproduction. Both male and female mantids grow wings in their last molt but only the males fly and when they do it is only to follow the female’s pheromones for reproduction. The mating flight of the mantis is dangerous because it is typically done during nightfall when predators such as bats are actively looking for food.
CELEBRATE 500 YEARS OF CATTLE IN FLORIDA BY EATING BEEF FOR THE HOLIDAYS
By Madison Waldo
The holiday season is rapidly approaching. As Florida marks 500 years of cattle ranching this year, what better way to say thanks to the industry and celebrate this milestone than eating beef for the holidays? Incorporating beef products into any meal packs in essential nutrients and protein your body needs. Beef provides you with a one stop shop source of iron, protein, B vitamins, necessary amino acids and more for a healthy diet. Laura Bennett, a multi-county livestock agent with UF/IFAS Extension, is showing her thanks to the Florida cattle industry by serving a delicious rib roast for Thanksgiving dinner. This classic rib roast recipe by Beef. It’s What’s For Dinner, the brand funded by the Beef Checkoff and National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, is simple and comes together in just three short hours. This cut of meat is flavorful on its own but pairing it with the horseradish sauce they recommend brings the flavor to a whole new level. They also have a classic holiday dinners section at www.beefitswhatsfordinner. com/recipes/collection/33393/classic-holiday-dinners with more tasty options.
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“The chances of a bad eating experience is very slim when eating a rib roast. The key is to not overcook it,” said Chad Carr, a UF/IFAS associate professor of animal sciences specializing in meat. When cooking any meat products, make sure you have a meat thermometer to ensure the cut of meat is internally cooked to a safe temperature and cooked to your liking, Carr said. If you are looking for a more economically friendly dish that will still wow your guests’ taste buds, try this beef bourguignon recipe (https://cafedelites.com/beefbourguignon/). This cut of meat is generally more wallet friendly, but the end results are elegant and will
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have your guests thinking they are eating at a five-star restaurant. “This is a cut of meat that needs low and slow heat for best results,” Carr said. Adding liquid and cooking it for a longer period of time will bring out a mouthwatering flavor. This recipe calls for searing the cut of meat first but adding in some flour during this step will help it brown nicely. This dish can be made using several methods, such as cooking on the stovetop, instant pot, pressure cooker, the traditional oven method or a slow cooker. “Traditional oven, in my opinion, gives the best results,” Bennett said. If you already have your turkey defrosting for Thanksgiving, no worries! Who says you can’t cook both turkey and beef this holiday season? Special thanks to Laura Bennett for recommending two of her favorite beef recipes. RIB ROAST WITH HORSERADISH SAUCE INGREDIENTS: 1 beef Ribeye Roast Bone-In (2 to 4 ribs), small end, chine (back) bone removed (6 to 8 pounds) Salt Roasted Fennel (recipe follows) (optional) Seasoning: 2 tablespoons coarsely ground mixed peppercorns (black, white, green and pink) 1 tablespoon minced garlic 2 teaspoons vegetable oil Horseradish Sauce: 1/2 cup whipping cream WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
3 tablespoons finely chopped fresh fennel bulb 3 tablespoons finely grated fresh horseradish 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh fennel fronds 1/8 teaspoon salt GET INGREDIENTS Powered by Chicory COOKING: Heat oven to 350°F. Combine seasoning ingredients; press evenly onto all surfaces of beef roast. Cook’s Tip: Mixed peppercorns are sold in specialty food markets and in some supermarkets. Black peppercorns may be substituted. To easily grind whole peppercorns, use a pepper mill or coffee grinder (used only for seasonings). Or, place peppercorns in a foodsafe plastic bag, squeeze out the air, and seal. Use the bottom of a custard cup, a rolling pin, or the bottom of a heavy pan to crush the peppercorns. Place roast, fat side up, in shallow roasting pan. Insert ovenproof meat thermometer so tip is centered in thickest part of beef, not resting in fat or touching bone. Do not add water or cover. Roast in 350°F oven 2-1/4 to 2-1/2 hours for medium rare; 2-1/2 to 3 hours for medium doneness. Prepare Roasted Fennel, if desired. Meanwhile, prepare Horseradish Sauce. Beat cream in medium bowl just until soft peaks form; do not over-
Cook’s Tip: Whipping cream has reached soft peaks when the beater is lifted and the cream forms a peak that gently falls to one side. Two tablespoons prepared horseradish may be substituted for fresh horseradish. Omit salt in sauce. Two tablespoons chopped fresh chives may be substituted for fresh fennel bulb and fronds. Remove roast when meat thermometer registers 135°F for medium rare; 145°F for medium. Transfer roast to carving board; tent loosely with aluminum foil. Let stand 15 to 20 minutes. (Temperature will continue to rise about 10°-15°F to reach 145°F for medium rare; 160°F for medium.) Carve roast into slices; season with salt, as desired. Serve with horseradish sauce and roasted fennel, if desired. Roasted Fennel: Trim off and discard fronds and stems from 4 large fresh fennel bulbs (about 3-1/2 pounds) to within 1 inch of bulbs. Cut each bulb lengthwise into quarters. Place on metal baking sheet. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons olive oil; toss gently to coat, keeping fennel pieces intact. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt; arrange cut side down. About 2 hours before roast is done, place fennel in lower third of oven. Roast for 1-3/4 to 2 hours or until tender and lightly browned, turning and rearranging once.
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beat. Add fennel bulb, horseradish, fennel fronds and salt; mix well. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
FARM DATA
A Potential Source of Significant Revenue for Producers, If They Own the Data By Jim Frankowiak
"Courtesy, Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS photography."
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The rapid development of artificial intelligence means data derived from farms might be more valuable than the crops growers produce. That’s because farmers can make money from their data when companies use it for other purposes, says a University of Florida scientist. The key for producers is to take ownership of their data, and that means paying close attention to the details in the contracts they execute with Ag firms. “Once farmers own their original data, and give their consent for any access, disclosure or use, they can receive long-term income of their data harvest,” said Ziwen Yu, a UF/IFAS assistant professor of agricultural and biological engineering. Yu co-authored a new UF/IFAS Extension document that describes who owns farm-generated data. Other authors of the document are Albert De Vries, a UF/IFAS professor of animal sciences in Gainesville and Yiannis Ampatzidis, a UF/IFAS associate professor of agricultural and biological engineering at the Southwest Florida Research and Education Center in Immokalee. “Farmers’ primary reservation about embracing data-driven technologies stems from their concerns that they might lose ownership and control of their data from which agriculture technology providers derive high-value products,” Yu said. “The most important aspect is to understand the new role they will play in the next era and the associated rights and obligation for all entities in the industry. The bottom line for this evolution is whoever owns the data – in this case, farmers -- can claim the exclusive right to license access and use of data by others.”
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In contracts, all entities related to such data may claim ownership of the information, Yu said. Ultimately, ag-tech firms usually earn the lion’s share of the money from the data by using it for other purposes, including smart devices and their services, upgrades for existing products and data transactions. In the report, Yu draws a pyramid to describe how farm data is used. At the bottom are environmental facts – raw data like how much water farmers uses to irrigate their crops. Next up is agricultural operation data – the information a grower uses to more efficiently run the farm. At the top of the pyramid, is “business data.” Agricultural technology companies use this data to make money. For example, if a company would like to use data from several farms for crop disease detection, it must get permission from farmers to access their data and may very likely pay for it. Agricultural technology partners attribute data from the land at which it was collected, the device by which it was measured, the farmer who arranged the operation rate and sequence, the cloud services where it was stored, etc. These firms own most farm data, including the raw information -environmental facts that farmers cannot copyright, but they can share. “Some farmers don’t know that or don’t have the time or inclination to closely peruse the contracts associated with the data, Yu said. “But we urge them to read the contracts carefully to know their rights.” The referenced UF/IFAS Extension document is entitled: “Who Owns and Controls Farming Data?” and it can be accessed by visiting: edis.ifas.ufl.edu. WWW.INTHEFIELDMAGAZINE.COM
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KubotaUSA.com © Kubota Tractor Corporation, 2020. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For complete warranty, safety, incentive offer and product information, consult your local dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.
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FARM EQUIPMENT Massey Ferguson 261 60hp 2wd tractor, $6500.00. IH Farmall 140 tractor complete with cultivating and fertilize equipment, $5500.00. 2006 Bush Hog TH440C UTV, 4x4, Honda engine, $6000.00. All are in very good condition. Call JR at 813-997-6769 LUCAS METAL WORKS DRAG Ground hog arena drag. $1,500 Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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FORD 4610 TRACTOR 2wd, 60hp. Very good condition $6,500. Call Alvie 813-759-8722
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USED SCAG ZTR 52” Liberty zero turn with Kaw engine. $3,500. Call Jeff 813-752-1066
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FREE Wooden Shipping Pallets All sizes! Call Alvie 813-759-8722 24 HOUR SERVICE Coggins Plumbing licensed • bonded • Insured. www.cogginsplumbing.com 813-643-7173 OLD ANTIQUE BLUE STOVE Bread warmer, chrome trim. FARM BUREAU INSURANCE You have got to see it to believe it! We have you covered! Call us today. Call Ted for more details. 813-752-3378 813-752-5577 DOORS & WINDOWS SPECIAL ORDER LOOKING TO BUY OR SELL? Call Rhonda Wetherington, P.A. No upcharge. House & Mobile Home. Realtor, GRI. 813-933-1761 Many standard sizes in stock. Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378 ALAN’S AIR CONDITIONING Residential, Commercial Sales SVS & ReKITCHEN CABINETS & VANITIES Get quality all wood cabinets for less than the pair. Legendary service for over 20 years! 813-752-0821 BIG Box STORES! Call Today! Ask for Blake. (813) 752-3378 FOR RENT Millcreek Pine Bark Row Mulcher. JOBS For blueberry farms, six yard, PTO drive need at least a 30hp MECHANIC NEEDED Agricultural equipment. Pay with benefits tractor. Call 863-604-2526 for rental details. based on experience. Call David 863-537-1345 or Alvie 813-759-8722 PARTS COUNTER HELP Wanted for parts look up and sales. Experience in the agriculture equipment service. Speak with Alvie. 813-759-8722
JOHN DEERE Looking for your new tractor? Come see us at Everglades Farm Equipment. evergladesfarmequipment.com 2805 SR 60 West, Plant City 813-737-1660 OVERSTOCK SPECIAL Barn doors starting at $80.00 Call Ted 813-752-3378
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Citrus Flower Bud Advisories Resume for 2021-22 By Ruth Borger
photo courtesy Tyler Jones, UF/IFAS photography The University of Florida will resume providing growers regular flower bud advisories as the critical time for citrus grove management begins this winter. UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences associate professor Tripti Vashisth restarted the advisories December 2 and will continue providing them every other week through the spring. The advisories provide critical information about the intensity and time of citrus blooms. Growers use this information to determine when to spray for Asian citrus psyllid control as well as when to stop pesticide spraying so that pollinating bees may be moved into or placed near citrus blocks. The flower bud advisories may be found at the UF/IFAS Citrus Research and Education Center websites at Flower Bud Induction – University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (ufl.edu) or crec.ifas.ufl.edu/flower-budinduction. “I am excited to continue this important service to Florida citrus growers,” said Vashisth, a faculty member in horticultural sciences and an Extension specialist in citrus production management. “This information is something that growers need to make timely and value-added decisions to properly manage their groves.”
“Under these conditions, enough hours below 68 degrees are likely to accumulate to induce an economic level of flower buds but intermediate warm periods during the winter can lead to multiple flower cohorts and a very prolonged bloom. On the positive side, if dry weather prevails during the bloom period, there could potentially be lower incidence of postbloom fruit drop.” Flower bud advisories are driven by the Citrus Flowering Monitor which predicts date(s) when citrus trees will bloom based on observed and predicted weather patterns and other parameters (cultivar, expected yield, tree age, and soil type). Growers can enter parameters specific to their grove to get a prediction. Knowing the bloom date is important for managing bloom and other related events. The Citrus Flowering Monitor also gives specific recommendations on how to manage bloom. The Citrus Flowering Monitor can be accessed from the advisory page or directly at: http://disc.ifas. ufl.edu/bloom INTHEFIELD MAGAZINE
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“This is going to be a La Niña winter, second in a row, which means Florida will experience temperatures warmer than normal and rainfall lower than normal. We are in for a warm and dry winter weather,” Vashisth said in the first advisory of this season.
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