The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced new data indicating the organic industry continues to grow domestically and globally, with 24,650 certified organic operations in the United States, and 37,032 around the world. The 2016 count of U.S. certified organic farms and businesses reflects a 13 percent increase between the end of 2015 and 2016, continuing the trend of double …
Increased blueberry volumes from Naturipe
Ideal growing conditions are on the rise throughout the United States and Naturipe Farms has promotable blueberry volumes available which is meeting increased consumer consumption trends and offers promotion opportunities at retail. With earlier harvests this year, “We are now seeing optimal quality and production from Florida & Georgia,” says Mario Flores, Director of Blueberry Product Management. “Northern Florida and …
Applications Being Accepted for FFVA Leadership Program
Do you know an up-and-coming leader who wants to be more involved in the agriculture industry? He or she may be eligible for the Florida Fruit & Vegetable’s Emerging Leader Development Program. Launched in 2011, the program identifies and develops leaders to be strong advocates for Florida agriculture. The programming provides a wealth of information of the many issues facing …
Problem Expands for Avocado Growers
by Brad Buck, University of Florida,/IFAS 9 beetle species carry deadly fungus Many people love their avocados – not to mention guacamole dip. So it was bad enough when scientists said a beetle was ravaging avocado trees in South Florida. Then scientists found out that the redbay ambrosia beetle — originally determined to transmit laurel wilt — is rare in …
Agri View: The Avalon Pecan
Everett Griner talks about a new pecan variety going on sale in today’s Agri View. There is a lot of interest in that new pecan variety I mentioned a few days ago. Seedlings will go on sale for the first time this spring. Here is why buyers are anxious. It is a big nut. That makes it easy to hull. …
Nutrients are Nice, but Produce Better Pass the Taste Test
by Brad Buck, University of florida/IFAS Consumers want produce that tickles their taste buds and is easy on the eye, but they think quality fruits and vegetables are a matter of luck, according to University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences researchers. The fact that consumers purchase produce to satisfy their senses – not necessarily for its nutrients …
Bumblebees Boost Blueberry Yield
by Brad Buck, University of Florida/IFAS Bumblebees can boost blueberry yield by 70 percent, good news for Florida growers in the heart of their blueberry season, a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences study shows. The news also accentuates the need for blueberry pollinators, said Joshua Campbell, a post-doctoral researcher in the UF/IFAS entomology and nematology department. …
Agri View: Peach Crop Outlook
Everett Griner talks about trouble for the 2017 peach crop in today’s Agri View. Sponsored ContentCIR Agriculture Harvester ProductsNovember 8, 2025Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Plays Critical Role To Extend ResearchNovember 7, 2025Florida Cattle Enhancement Board Funded Research Impactful for the Future of the Florida Cattle IndustryOctober 31, 2025
U.S. Sugar Exec Comments Regarding Senator Rob Bradley’s Strike-All Amendment to Senate Bill 10
Statement from Judy Sanchez, Senior Director for Corporate Communications & Public Affairs for U.S. Sugar “This amendment makes significant progress and demonstrates that the Florida Senate has begun taking seriously the concerns of residents from communities south of Lake Okeechobee. The decision to no longer take 60,000 to 153,000 acres of farmland out of production is a positive step forward. While the amendment improves the bill, there …
ASA to House Ag Subcommittee: Keep Sugar Policy Strong Amid Low Prices, Foreign Subsidies
A U.S. sugar policy that costs taxpayers $0, protects American producers against foreign sugar subsidies, and keeps consumer prices among the lowest in the world should remain in effect in the next Farm Bill, according to a top industry economist. Jack Roney, Director of Economics and Policy Analysis for the American Sugar Alliance (ASA), testified today before the House Agriculture …