New Sentinel Landscape in Florida to Strengthen Military Readiness

The Sentinel Landscapes Partnership, comprised of the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Department of Defense (DoD) and Department of Interior (DOI) has announced three new areas designated as sentinel landscapes. These are areas where natural and working lands thrive alongside military installations and ranges, and play a key role in strengthening the nation’s military readiness while addressing natural resources concerns …

Florida Senate Passes Revamped Water Bill

(NSF/TALLAHASSEE/Feb. 17, 2022) — With a key lawmaker saying he wanted to clarify and counter “purposeful misinformation,” the Senate on Thursday changed a controversial measure that critics said could affect Everglades restoration projects. The measure (SB 2508) had drawn opposition from Gov. Ron DeSantis and critics such as fishing guides who raced to the Capitol to appear in the Senate …

USDA-NRCS Investing in Partner-Driven Conservation on Ag and Forest Land

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in Florida and Georgia reminds conservation partners that up to $225 million in funding is being made available through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP). The partner-driven program leverages collective resources to find solutions to address natural resource challenges on agricultural land. This year’s funding announcement includes opportunities for projects that address climate change, benefit …

Florida House Passes $105.3 Billion Spending Plan

(NSF/TALLAHASSEE/Feb. 16, 2022) — What would be a record $105.3 billion spending plan bolstered by federal stimulus money was approved Wednesday by the Florida House, helping set up negotiations with the Senate on a final budget for the 2022-2023 fiscal year. The House voted 102-14 to approve the proposal (HB 5001), after Democrats objected to shifting $200 million away from …

Florida Beef Council Ready for “Beef It’s What’s For Dinner 300”

The Florida Beef Council (FBC) is putting the finishing touches on a big Beef Checkoff promotional event coming this weekend. Several folks from other states are coming in to help out during the “Beef It’s What’s For Dinner 300” at the Daytona International Speedway. And during the recent Cattle Industry Convention in Houston, FBC Director of Education & Promotion DeAnne Maples promoted the big event. …

ACEP Working to Protect Wetlands in Florida

While wetlands are some of Florida’s treasures, over the years we’ve seen an acreage decrease of nearly half. According to a U.S Fish and Wildlife Service report, over 20 million wetland acres have been lost since settlers began draining and diking them back in the 19th century. And of course now, population growth continues to threaten what remains. USDA’s Natural Resources …

Florida Lawmakers Discuss Veterinary Telemedicine

Week five of the Florida Legislative Session saw various issues discussed once again, but there is a bill that has been of interest to some in agriculture across the state. Florida Cattlemen’s Association (FCA) Director of Governmental Affairs, Sam Ard, explains what the bill is about and where it currently stands. The 60 day Florida Legislative session will run until March 11th. Sponsored ContentCIR …

DeSantis Takes Aim at Senate Environmental Proposal

(TALLAHASSEE, FL/NSF/Feb. 10, 2022) — Gov. Ron DeSantis on Thursday opposed a controversial Senate budget bill that critics say could affect Everglades restoration. But Senate President Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, defended the bill as protecting restoration efforts, including a massive reservoir. Members of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Wednesday approved the bill (SB 2508), which drew opposition from environmentalists, charter boat …