Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles H. Bronson has requested and received from the Governor an Executive Order extending for an additional seven days a state of emergency to assist farmers dealing with crop damage from the freeze. The order directs the state Department of Transportation to extend the lifting of weight, height, length and width restrictions for commercial vehicles transporting vulnerable …
Limited Options for Tropical Fish Growers
One of the commodities hard-hit by our cold weather streak was the tropical fish industry and Dr. Craig Watson with the University of Florida’s Aquaculture Lab says unfortunately some growers may not be able to recoup their losses. Download Audio
Congressman Putnam Surveys Florida’s Freeze Damage
Congressman Adam Putnam has toured Florida’s freeze damaged crops and says the work now is to be focused on ensuring that farmers receive compensation. Download Audio Download Audio
Growers Asked for Input on Impacts of the Freeze
In order to get a better picture of the overall impact of the freeze, Hendry County Extension Director Gene McAvoy, is asking specialty crop growers for details of their losses. Download Audio
New EPA FL Water Nutrient Regs Create Huge Statewide Brouhaha
The announcement in recent days about EPA’s new numeric nutrient criteria for Florida waters has created a huge standoff between EPA and many, many Florida interests. Florida Congressman Adam Putnam did not mince words when asked by Southeast AgNet about the matter during recent visits to freeze damaged areas of Florida agriculture. Download Audio By the way, it is reported …
FL Commissioner’s Spotlight on the Citrus Research Referendum
This week’s Commissioner’s Spotlight from Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson is about the approval of a citrus research order by growers through a referendum. More information is available on the web by clicking on research order.
U.S. EPA Announces New Water Regulations – Singles Out Florida
As soon as E P A made new Florida water regulations public in recent days, opponents were quick to pounce. This following joint statement is from the Don’t Tax Florida Coalition. By the way, it is reported that pre-registration is necessary for those wishing to appear at the February public hearings on this matter. CLICK HERE to go to an …
Reaction Quick to EPA Rules on Water Pollution
From THE NEWS SERVICE OF FLORIDA – By MICHAEL PELTIER THE CAPITAL, TALLAHASSEE, Jan. 15, 2009…The electronic ink had yet to dry Friday on proposed new federal water quality standards for Florida before combatants chimed in. On Friday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency released a set of proposed numeric standards for phosphorus and nitrogen levels in Florida’s lakes, rivers, streams, …
Food Safety a Concern for the Entire Food Sector
Food safety is a hot topic these days and Josh Craft, assistant director of Ag Policy with the Florida Farm Bureau, says it’s one that crosses all sectors of the industry.
Fumigation Considerations for Cold Wet Soils
A word of caution for growers who have recently fumigated but not yet planted. Hendry County Extension director, Gene McAvoy, says the recent cold weather could increase the time needed to prepare the soil.