In this month’s sneak peek, the September issue of Specialty Crop Grower Magazine highlights the Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo and its triumphant return to Fort Myers, Florida. The two-day event was held on Aug. 12-13 at the Caloosa Sound Convention Center and Luminary Hotel. The new venue offered farmers and industry leaders convenience and amenities.
Citrus and specialty crop sessions were held as was a tradeshow that provided a large space for networking opportunities for growers and vendors.
In other news, alternative crops are featured, as growers look to new crops and potential opportunities. These alternative crops include bamboo, hemp, avocado, citrus and even blueberry, as growers are trying alternative practices that are evolving the landscape for the crop. Bamboo is seen as a backup for Florida’s struggling citrus industry. Avocado is well established in South Florida, though efforts are being made to widen its footprint into the central parts of the state.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) is reporting that online fraud is targeting Georgia farmers. The agency’s law enforcement division said it has identified fraudulent schemes where scammers create websites and online advertisements that appear to represent legitimate farm equipment dealerships. Criminals are using artificial intelligence to imitate dealerships, creating convincing websites, advertisements, emails and communications designed to deceive potential buyers.
The GDA urges farmers and agricultural businesses to exercise caution before purchasing equipment online.
Also, Editor-in-Chief Frank Giles, explores how an increase in year-round imports is pressuring growers in his Up Front feature.
Video Component
Don’t miss this month’s bonus video coverage in the interactive digital edition of Specialty Crop Grower magazine.
VIDEO: Don’t miss a video of Danny Munch discussing the American Farm Bureau Federation report. (page 4)
VIDEO: Learn more about online fraud in Georgia agriculture. (page 14)
VIDEO: See a video with highlights from this year’s Citrus & Specialty Crop Expo. (page 18)