University of Georgia researchers have identified a new species of bacteria, which they have named Pseudomonas alliivorans — from “allium vorans,” which translates as onion devourer or eater. As part of a multistate, four-year project, UGA Cooperative Extension vegetable disease specialist Bhabesh Dutta and his team surveyed onions at every stage of production — from seedling to mature bulb and …
Sneak Peek: December 2021 VSCNews Magazine
By Clint Thompson The December issue of VSCNews Magazine highlights the Florida Ag Expo, which was held on Nov. 18 at the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Gulf Coast Research and Education Center in Wimauma, Florida. Various topics like artificial intelligence, best management practices, disease and pest management tips, field tours and a trade show …
Florida, Georgia Remain Top Users of H-2A Program
Florida and Georgia remained the top two users of the H-2A program, according to the U.S. Department of Labor, as of Sept. 30, 2021. For the fiscal year (FY) 2021, the number of certified positions for Florida numbered 44,706, or 14.1% of the total certified in FY 2021. Georgia was second with 35,205 positions or 11.1%. The other top states …
Current Dry Conditions for Parts of SE a Concern During La Nina Winter
By Clint Thompson The current dry conditions felt in some areas across the Southeast could be a prelude to a long dry winter for vegetable and specialty crop farmers. That would not be good news for next growing season, says Pam Knox, University of Georgia Extension Agricultural Climatologist. “What it does mean is that we have to start thinking about …
New GFVGA Executive Vice President: Butts Assumes Role on Dec. 1
By Clint Thompson The new executive vice president of the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (GFVGA) hopes to continue the success the previous leader sustained for 25 years. Chris Butts has big shoes to fill when he takes over for Charles Hall as the new leader of the GFVGA on Dec. 1. But he believes the infrastructure is already …
Safe Eating During Thanksgiving: Keep Foods Free from Foodborne Illness
WASHINGTON — Americans will enjoy Thanksgiving this week with family and friends. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) reminds everyone that it is important to keep family and friends safe from foodborne illnesses this Thanksgiving. “Thanksgiving is one of my favorite times to remind people about food safety,” said Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “I personally know how much effort it …
Citrus Greening Detected in Leon County, Florida
Citrus greening disease has been detected in a backyard in Tallahassee, Florida. University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) recommended to the homeowner to have the tree removed. It’s the first occurrence in Leon County, according to Xavier Martini, UF/IFAS assistant professor at the North Florida Research and Education Center. According to the UF/IFAS, citrus greening or …
Statistics Say Warmer, Drier Conditions Expected This Winter
By Clint Thompson A La Nina weather pattern was declared a month ago for the second straight winter across the Southeast. Growers should anticipate warmer and drier conditions this year, especially compared to last season. At least that’s what statistics say, points out Pam Knox, University of Georgia Extension Agricultural Climatologist. “Last year was a one off. All of these …
UGA’s New Extension Vegetable Specialist
By Clint Thompson The new University of Georgia (UGA) Cooperative Extension vegetable specialist in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences is no stranger to the vegetable and specialty crop industry and the challenges it currently faces. That’s why Ted McAvoy should be a wealth of knowledge and experience for South Georgia producers. McAvoy joined UGA after working at Syngenta …
Georgia Hemp Licenses: New Producers/Processors Can Apply in January
Georgia hemp producers and processors who were licensed this year can now apply for a license for the 2022 season. The 2022 Georgia hemp grower license and processor permit window will reopen in January for all new applicants. Tim Coolong, associate professor in the University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, believes hemp acreage will not increase next …