(FDACS/Tallahassee, FL/Oct. 25, 2022) — Florida Commissioner of Agriculture and Consumer Services Nikki Fried and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) are proud to announce the winners of the 2022 Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award. The program, created in 1994, highlights environmentally innovative farming practices across different parts of Florida’s agricultural industry. This year’s winners will be honored at the Commissioner’s Breakfast on Friday, October 28th, during the Florida Farm Bureau Annual Meeting.
“It is my great honor to recognize the recipients of our 2022 Agricultural Environmental Leadership award,” said Commissioner Fried. “Florida is on the front lines of climate change and our farmers, ranchers, and producers are constantly evolving their practices to mitigate its effects while continuing to support a strong domestic food supply. These agricultural leaders are wonderful examples of those efforts to preserve Florida’s natural lands for generations to come.
Effective leadership is crucial in driving innovation and progress, and these award-winning farmers and producers serve as role models for others in the industry. Their exceptional efforts to implement environmentally sustainable practices not only contribute to the preservation of natural resources but also demonstrate that responsible agriculture is possible while maintaining profitability. This recognition of their achievements provides more detail about the importance of promoting and adopting leadership qualities that prioritize sustainable and environmentally conscious practices in the agricultural industry.
2022 Agricultural Environmental Leadership Award Winners
- Lynetta Usher Griner of Usher Land & Timber
- Brooks Garland of Lee Peanut Farms
- Marlon L. Pendergrass of the Groves of Peace River
The nominations for the award were evaluated by a committee of representatives from FDACS and key Florida agricultural groups. Award winners were judged on the following environmental practices:
- Wildlife Protection and Habitat Conservation: Provide a safe, viable habitat for wildlife within an agricultural operation.
- Pesticide/Nutrient Management: Use pesticides/nutrients responsibly, maximizing benefits and minimizing potential adverse environmental effects.
- Water Quality: Preserve or improve water quality within or adjacent to an agricultural operation.
- Soil and Water Conservation: Reduce soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and water consumption; and enhance water recharge.
- Waste Management/Recycling: Reduce waste by recycling agricultural by-products and waste products on site.
To learn more about the Agriculture-Environmental Leadership Award click here.