Florida Now Deemed as a Cotton-Producing State

Randall Weiseman Cotton, Florida

(MEMPHIS, Tenn.) –The U.S. Department of Agriculture has announced the results of a Cotton Research and Promotion Program referendum that was held October 13, 2009, through November 10, 2009, to consider amendments to the Cotton Research and Promotion Order (Order) – the referendum passed. Two amendments were proposed by AMS: – Revise the definition of “cotton-producing state.” – Revise the …

Citrus Packers Appeal UF New Varieties Methods; UF Responds

Dan Citrus, Florida

Florida Citrus Packers Executive Vice President Richard Kinney (top left) recently appealed to the Florida Citrus Commission to help Florida growers have more affordable and timely access to new citrus varieties developed by University of Florida -IFAS plant breeders. Southeast AgNet’s Ernie Neff offers the basics of Kinney’s appeal in the first report. Download Audio Listen to the remaining audio …

U.S. EPA Announces New Water Regulations – Singles Out Florida

Gary Cooper Cattle, Citrus, Florida, Nursery Crops, Specialty Crops, Sugar, Vegetables

As soon as E P A made new Florida water regulations public in recent days, opponents were quick to pounce. This following joint statement is from the Don’t Tax Florida Coalition. By the way, it is reported that pre-registration is necessary for those wishing to appear at the February public hearings on this matter. CLICK HERE to go to an …

Reaction Quick to EPA Rules on Water Pollution

Randall Weiseman Field Crops, Florida, Livestock, Specialty Crops

From THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA – By MICHAEL PELTIER THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, Jan. 15, 2009…The electronic ink had yet to dry Friday on proposed new federal water quality standards for Florida before combatants chimed in. On Friday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a set of proposed numeric standards for phosphorus and nitrogen levels in Florida’s lakes, rivers, streams, …

Growers Urged for Input for New E P A Numeric Nutrient Water Regs

Gary Cooper Cattle, Citrus, Florida, Forestry, General, Nursery Crops, Specialty Crops, Sugar, Vegetables

Florida farmers are urged to register now to assure their views are heard and considered at three EPA public hearings scheduled for mid-February. These hearings will address new numeric nutrient water standards EPA is announcing this week that could dramatically impact agriculture’s ability to operate in the state of Florida, and Florida is the ONLY state singled out for this …

Putnam Leads Delegation Request for Quick Aid to Florida’s Farmers

Dan Citrus, Corn, Field Crops, Florida, Nursery Crops, Peanuts, Soybeans, Specialty Crops, Sugar, Vegetables

WASHINGTON – Congressman Adam Putnam has gathered strong bi-partisan support from Florida’s congressional delegation for speedy federal reaction to the severe cold weather which appears to have done significant damage to much of Florida’s agriculture. After a week’s worth of freezing temperatures across most of the state Putnam anticipates that a formal request from the state for emergency assistance will …

FL Ag Commissioner Lauds Company for Pesticide Stewardship

Dan Citrus, Florida, Specialty Crops, Sugar, Vegetables

TALLAHASSEE — Florida Agriculture and Consumer Services Commissioner Charles H. Bronson has named Dow Agrosciences as the winner of the 2009 Commissioner’s Award for Pesticide Stewardship for programs that promote safe and environmentally friendly pesticide use. The award will be presented to representatives of Dow at today’s meeting of the Pesticide Review Council. The Commissioner’s Award for Pesticide Stewardship was …

Farm Bureau Asks Members to Speak Out at EPA Water Hearings

Randall Weiseman Cattle, Citrus, Dairy, Field Crops, Florida, General, Livestock, Nursery Crops, Specialty Crops, Sugar, Vegetables

Ag Policy Bulletin-ACTION ISSUE: On January 14, 2010, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will propose numeric nutrient criteria for flowing waters in the State of Florida. EPA will hold public hearings throughout the state on February 16, 17, and 18. Florida Farm Bureau Federation is asking that members attend and participate in the public hearings. It is imperative …

Georgia Ag Commissioner Receives Top AFBF Award

Randall Weiseman Field Crops, General, Georgia, Livestock

Georgia Commissioner of Agriculture Tommy Irvin received the American Farm Bureau Federations highest honor, the Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award, during this week’s 91st AFBF annual meeting in Seattle. Irvin has served as Georgia’s commissioner of agriculture since 1969. AFBF established the Distinguished Service Award to honor individuals who have devoted their careers to serving farming and ranching. Commissioner Irvin’s …

FL DOT Documents Needed for Transporting Heavy Produce Loads

Gary Cooper Citrus, Florida, General, Specialty Crops, Vegetables, Weather

We’re posting this information again so Florida growers will have handy the documents needed for trucks hauling overweight produce loads. As per action by Florida Governor Charlie Crist lifting the restrictions on truck weights in light of the deep freeze the state is experiencing right in the midst of winter fruit and vegetable harvests, these documents should be kept in …