FL Commissioner’s Spotlight

Randall Weiseman FL Commissioner Report, Florida, Specialty Crops

Florida Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson talks about the “Drop Red Gorgeous” strawberry promotional campaign. More information about the campaign can be found at: http://www.florida-agriculture.com/news/12-21-06.htm More information about Florida Strawberries can be found on the web site of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association: http://www.straw-berry.org/ Report (1:00 wma)

Trying to Increase Potato Appeal

Randall Weiseman Vegetables

Potatoes rank high in nutrition but low in convenience, something potato growers are trying to address with new marketing strategies. Report (1:00 wma)

Honey Board Anniversary

Randall Weiseman Specialty Crops

2007 marks the 20th anniversary of the National Honey Board which first opened offices in 1987 after honey producers and importers approved a referendum in 1986. Report (1:00 wma)

Consumer Study on Spinach Recall

Randall Weiseman Vegetables

Many consumers who stopped eating spinach after last fall’s recall also stopped buying other bagged produce, a study by the Food Policy Institute at Rutgers University has found. The study also showed that although most Americans heard about the recall, fewer were aware of significant details such as what kind of spinach was affected, what caused the contamination, and most …

Valentine’s Bell Pepper Field Day

Randall Weiseman Florida, Vegetables

A Bell Pepper Field day is being held at the SixLs Farm in Naples on Wednesday February 14th. According to Hendry county extension vegetable agent Gene McAvoy, this replicated trial contains 25 entries from a number of companies. The IFAS team will begin picking around 10:30 and will remain on site until approximately 1 PM. The site address is 11900 …

Free Cabbage Plants for Kids

Randall Weiseman Alabama, Florida, General, Vegetables

Once again this year Alabama-based Bonnie Plant Farm is offering free cabbage plants to all interested third graders who want to try their hand at growing a variety that can reach up to 50 pounds! Check out www.bonnieplants.com for more information about this popular educational program. Report (1:00 wma)