The November issue of Specialty Crop Grower Magazine highlights Cultiva and its high tunnel vegetable production. With approximately 865 high tunnels, covering a farmable area of about 150 acres, it is an impressive sight to behold in North Florida. But hurricanes in recent years, notably Idalia in 2023 and Helene in 2024, have challenged production.
Federico Boscolo with Cultiva discusses his company’s resiliency.
The Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) deportations have caused concerns for farmers who must prepare in case an ICE agent makes a visit. Producers should have a plan in place, which the Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association stressed in a memo to its members.
In other news, Auburn University remains focused on artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in agriculture production. AI was highlighted during the university’s AI Symposium held earlier this year. Simer Virk, associate professor and Extension specialist of machine systems engineering, discussed the symposium’s focus and how AI is impacting research plans at Auburn.
A new Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) methodology has been announced for the H-2A program, a much-needed change for the fruit and vegetable industry. Chris Butts, executive director of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association, talks about the importance of the change.
Sweet Grown Alabama continues to help the state’s specialty crop growers achieve success. The marketing program, which started in 2019, has more than 500 farms, markets, product makers, stores and restaurants as part of the program. Ellie Watson, director of Sweet Grown Alabama, talked about the program’s importance.
Video Component
Video Component
Don’t miss this month’s bonus video coverage in the interactive digital edition of Specialty Crop Grower magazine.
VIDEO: Federico Boscolo talks more about his Cultiva farm. (page 12)
VIDEO: A feature on the Sweet Grown Alabama program. (page 18)
VIDEO: Florida Senate President Ben Albritton discusses citrus. (page 21)
VIDEO: Florida citrus grower Jason Griffin talks about his rootstock/scion research trials. (page 21)