Governor and Cabinet Surpass 50K Florida Acres Preserved Through RFLPP

The Governor and Cabinet approved the preservation of more than 8,300 acres through four cost-effective conservation easements, which prevent future development of the land and allow agricultural operations to continue to contribute to Florida’s economy. The purchases are part of the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program (RFLPP), where the state partners with Florida’s farmers and ranchers to preserve active …

USDA Encourages Grower Attendance at WHIP Meetings

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency will hold several information sessions in Florida about the Wildfire Hurricane Indemnity Program (WHIP). The meetings are the first step in the Hurricane Irma relief package. The USDA is encouraging all growers who wish to participate in WHIP to attend at least one meeting. Below are the dates, times and locations …

Putnam Seeks Nominations for 2018 Woman of the Year in Agriculture

Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam is now accepting nominations for the 2018 “Woman of the Year in Agriculture” award, which recognizes women in all areas of the industry who have made outstanding contributions to Florida agriculture. The deadline for submitting nominations is July 31, 2018. Nominations may be submitted electronically by accessing the application located on the Woman …

UF/IFAS Hopes to Grow Vanilla, Meet Consumer Demand

For dessert, how about a scoop of ice cream flavored with vanilla from Florida’s farmers? Because so many consumers enjoy vanilla, University of Florida scientists hope to help Florida farmers grow the bean. Consumers have an appetite for vanilla. The U.S. leads the world in imported vanilla beans, said Alan Chambers, an assistant professor of horticultural sciences at the UF …

EWP Helping Florida Landowners after Storms

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida wants to remind landowners that should they suffer damage from a natural disaster, the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program can help relieve imminent hazards to life and property. EWP Helping Florida Landowners after Storms Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL Cattle Enhancement Board Wraps up Funding YearJune 30, 2026Florida Cattle Enhancement …

Dietitian Educating Florida Consumers About Beef Industry

The Florida Beef Council added a new person to its team last fall to help with promoting the beef message to consumers. Sarah Krieger, a Registered Dietitian, recently took part in a tour in Nebraska and explains how it is helping her educate consumers in Florida. Dietician Educating Florida Consumers about Beef Industry Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsJuly 1, 2026FL …

Water Policy Key for Next Agriculture Commissioner

Maintaining Florida’s water supply, while balancing the growing needs of residents, farmers, tourists and businesses, is a priority for the candidates seeking to replace Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam. The issue involves helping preserve diverse ecosystems, such as the Everglades and natural springs, without scuttling the economy. Candidates for agriculture commissioner are putting forward a variety of ideas, from continuing …

Florida Organic Certification Cost Share Program

Florida Organic Growers (FOG), in cooperation with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, is pleased to announce the 2017-2018 Organic Certification Cost Share Program. Certified organic operators in Florida can now apply for reimbursement of up to 75 percent of certification costs from October 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018, for a maximum of $750 per scope of certification. …