USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey says eventhough we were able to avoid the latest freeze event that hit our western neighbors, specialty crop growers are still feeling the effects from the December and January cold weather. Download Audio
Cold Weather Affecting Gulf Fishing Industry
USDA Meteorologist Brad Rippey tells us that fruit and vegetable farmers are not the only specialty crop producers that have had to struggle through the multiple freezes this season. Download Audio
Produce Supplies Remain Tight as Cold Weather Spreads to Mexico
The freezing temperatures that cut across a wide swath of Mexico last week could now have a huge effect on supplies of tomatoes, peppers and other winter vegetables. Download Audio
Cold Threatens South Texas Fruits & Vegetables
Much of the Midwest is under snow, in some cases up to two feet, from a storm moving across the country. While Florida farmers sit this one out, other parts of fruit and vegetable country in the deep south are in for some cold nights this week. USDA Radio’s Gary Crawford has details with Meteorologist Brad Rippey in this report. …
Frigid Temps Again for FL Ag & Fertilizer/Agrichem Mtg
Another cold snap on tap this week for most of Florida and for this week’s gathering of the Florida Fertilizer and Agrichemical Association (FFAA) and Florida Chapter of the National AgriMarketing Association (NAMA) in St. Petersburg this week. FFAA & NAMA members will hear a special message from Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam, and a special presentation about energy crops expansions …
Despite the Weather AG CONNECT Expo is Open Today
The wintery weather conditions here in Atlanta may have some wondering if AG CONNECT Expo 2011 will still be open, but it will be. I was able to catch up with show director Sarah Mooney who told me things are still on for the last day of the show. Download Audio The show runs today from 9:00am until 3:00pm at …
First Southeast AgNet Family Baby
The very first baby born into the Southeast AgNet family made her apperance early Saturday morning as Naomi Grace McPeake was born at 12:18am in Athens, Georgia. Naomi is the new daughter of our own Julie McPeake pictured with her husband Andrew. Mom and baby are doing great and looking forward to getting back home today before the winter storm …
Emergency Order Extended for Transporting Freeze-Vulnerable Crops
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam announced that the Executive Order relaxing trucking restrictions so farmers can transport freeze-vulnerable crops has been extended. The order, which was set to expire on January 7, has been extended for an additional seven days.
The Effect of the Freezes on All FL Specialty Crops and Markets
As we continue to keep you informed on the affects of our three December freezes, the following two reports have information from USDA experts regarding the impact on the grower and the consumer. USDA Meteorologist – Brad Rippey: Download Audio USDA Economist – Gary Lucier: Download Audio
After Freezes, Growers Have to Make Tough Decisions
The threat of freezing weather has abated for now, but Director of Hendry County Extension, Gene McAvoy, says the risk for the producer is still as strong as ever. Download Audio