Florida Ag Community Continues Work to Enhance Water Quality Management

By Frank Giles Water quality and quantity are issues that cross all political and economic boundaries in Florida. When blue-green algae and red tides occur, they make front-page news and keep these challenges top-of-mind for all Floridians. Agriculture and the water-quality debate have been closely intertwined over the years. As a large user of water for irrigation and the need …

AFVGA Tour Visits Sites in Georgia, Florida

By Clint Thompson The Alabama Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association (AFVGA) toured farming operations in Georgia and Florida last week. It allowed its attendees, young and experienced, to build camaraderie while learning from fellow growers in the Southeast. Blake Thaxton, executive director of the AFVGA, discussed the importance of the week-long tour, which included stops at Lewis Taylor Farms, a …

Seminis Pepper Varieties Solution for Bacterial Leaf Spot

By Clint Thompson Seminis Vegetable Seeds (Bayer) has an answer for those pepper producers combating bacterial leaf spot disease. New varieties with disease resistance are critical for growers who are concerned that they are overusing imperfect fungicides. Andrew Scruggs, market development representative in North Carolina for Bayer Vegetable Seeds, discussed the situation facing growers. “You think about the Southeast United …

Take Precautions When the Heat Is On

By Ashley McLeod-Morin Due to the nature of their work during the extreme heat of summer, those who work on farms are at a higher risk for heat-related illnesses than the general population. The Southeastern Coastal Center for Agricultural Health and Safety, led by the University of Florida, has compiled heat illness educational resources (see tinyurl.com/2u5mh642) for farmers and farmworkers …

Incorporating Grilled Vegetables in July 4 Cookouts

This July 4 should not just be about grilling hamburgers and hot dogs. Vegetables can work just fine on the outdoor grill, says Sandy Proctor, Extension food expert with Kansas State University. She discussed the idea of cooking fresh veggies this holiday season. “I think grilled vegetables are really an opportunity to show what you can do on the grill …

Grilled Vegetables: Another Option for July 4 Cookouts

This July 4 should not just be about grilling hamburgers and hot dogs. Vegetables can work just fine on the outdoor grill, says Sandy Proctor, Extension food expert with Kansas State University. She discussed the idea of cooking fresh veggies this holiday season. “I think grilled vegetables are really an opportunity to show what you can do on the grill …