Chilli thrips threaten many of the Sunshine State’s most important crops, but University of Florida research shows a predatory mite that could help Florida growers with the invasive pest.
Good Food Garden
USDA has joined forces with the non profit organization Share Our Strength and the Food Network to bring healthy and fresh foods to children in underserved communities.
Watermelon Juice for Ethanol
With much of the watermelon season winding down here in Florida studies have shown that there may be another market for the popular fruit.
Growth of Farmer’s Markets
The number of farmer’s markets in the US has grown by seven percent in the last two years. If your interested in finding a farmers market in your area, The Florida Department of Agriculture has a list of local markets.
Tomato Viruses
In these two reports we look at Tomatoes and two separate issues that are currently affecting them.
Food Safety Legislation Proposed
In the latest attempt to move all-encompassing food safety legislation, the House Energy and Commerce Committee proposed a bill that would give the Food and Drug Administration new enforcement tools.
Transportation Funding Cut for Food Banks
Florida’s state budget contains bad news for Florida’s food banks with a 50 percent cut in transportation funding. David Reaney, President of the Florida Association of Food Banks, says that the cut puts an added strain on an already challenging task.
New Fumigant Regulations Released
The new regulations for fumigant buffers have been released by the EPA and will go into affect in 2011. The EPA has developed a fact sheet regarding the new buffer requirements.
FL Commissioner’s Spotlight on Farm to Fuel Summit
This week’s Commissioner’s Spotlight from Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson is about the 2009 Farm to Fuel Summit. More information is available on the web by clicking on Summit.
Florida Home to 2000th E85 Fuel Station
South Florida is now home to the nation’s 2000th E85 fuel pump which Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson says is good for agriculture, the environment and the economy.