Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Funds Research That Impacts the Future of Florida’s Cattle Industry
Florida’s cattle industry is a cornerstone of the state’s agricultural heritage, and its future depends on innovation, sustainability, and research-driven progress. The Florida Cattle Enhancement Board (FCEB) plays a vital role in funding studies and initiatives that help cattle producers adapt to modern challenges, improve herd health, and maintain profitability.
We recently spoke with Sarah Childs, a respected voice who has served in multiple capacities within the Florida cattle industry, to gain her perspective on the importance of research and innovation.
“Well probably one of the greatest things that we are encountering at this time is the fact that we are losing agriculture production land tremendously every year. We have less and less. So the current producers are going to have to use every trick of the trade that they can find and use to remain profitable and be able to stay in business. And it’s because of a lot of the research that’s being done that enables someone to keep their pastures in better condition, to grow their cattle better, to enable calves to be sold at higher weaning weights, to maintain the productivity of mature cows, to raise replacement heifers in a lesser financial way than we have in the past. It’s all those things put together that we need all the help that we can get to remain a beef producing state. We are nowhere near what we used to be 20-30 years ago and we’re going to have to be ever so diligent of what we do and how we do it and maintain the respect of the average American consumer to stay in business.”
Her words highlight the urgency of protecting Florida’s agricultural lands while embracing research-backed strategies to enhance productivity. The Florida Cattle Enhancement Board’s investments in pasture management, animal nutrition, and breeding technology provide producers with the tools they need to thrive despite economic and environmental pressures.
By supporting innovative research, the FCEB ensures that Florida remains a leading beef-producing state. From improved herd genetics to sustainable grazing practices, these initiatives not only strengthen the industry but also reinforce consumer trust in locally produced beef.
As Sarah Childs emphasizes, the future of Florida’s cattle industry depends on collaboration, education, and ongoing research — essential ingredients to preserve both the livelihood of producers and the legacy of Florida cattle ranching.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.