The Citrus Research and Field Trial (CRAFT) program is now accepting applications for the fourth cycle of trials. The deadline for applications has been extended to Dec. 31, 2022. This cycle will follow practices established in the first three cycles by partnering with growers to evaluate the effectiveness and economic feasibility of HLB mitigation strategies in commercial settings.
The CRAFT board of directors and technical working group have established a list of factors of interest that are considered to be of higher importance during cycle four. The list can be found at craftfdn.org/craft-cycle-four.
The factors of interest list is not all-inclusive, so growers are encouraged to submit all project applications that they believe may be beneficial in the fight against HLB. CRAFT staff can assist growers who need help developing an experimental project for cycle four.
Funding guidelines for cycle four of CRAFT require that at least 50% of all dollars spent be allocated to “small” growers owning less than 2,500 acres of grove land.
Through the first three cycles, CRAFT has allocated approximately 64% of funds to small growers. In an effort to ensure that smaller growers continue to have an opportunity to participate, the CRAFT board of directors will consider projects of at least 5 acres and may opt to waive the program minimum requirement of 20 acres on a case-by-case basis.
For more information, growers should contact Program Manager Tamara Wood (tamara@craftfdn.org or 863-698-9276) or Assistant Program Manager Tina Buice (tina@craftfdn.org or 863-214-3731).