By Clint Thompson
The Florida Citrus Show was once again a success.
It united the specialty crop industry, informed farmers about trends impacting citrus and vegetables, while preparing growers for the upcoming season. And it never hurts to enjoy tailgating treats that were prominent among participating vendors.
It was an impactful event, says Morgan Assaf, show organizer for AgNet Media.
“We had a great successful show,” Assaf said. “It’s a great time with food and fellowship. We had over 500 pre-registered attendees, and we had 53 exhibitors. It was a great time to bring the industry together.”
The event was held on Thursday, March 13, and hosted at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Indian River Research and Education Center and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Agricultural Research Service, U.S. Horticultural Research Laboratory in Fort Pierce, Florida.
A general session started the day with topics centering on citrus research, labor and survival in the HLB era. Concurrent citrus and vegetable sessions were held in the afternoon. It featured experts from UF/IFAS and the USDA.
Tailgating Theme
A highlight of the day, though, was the tailgating experience during lunchtime. Growers and industry experts networked with vendors in attendance while sampling delicious delicacies that were offered.
“We love having this event with the tailgate. It’s a great way for all of the different industry representatives and growers to get together and discuss what’s going on, and they can talk with the exhibitors as well,” Assaf said.
Farmers and industry leaders can go ahead and mark their calendars for the Citrus and Specialty Crop Expo, slated for Aug. 20-21 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, Florida.