(AgPR) — Women around the state who work in agriculture came together Dec. 5 for Florida Agri-Women’s first farm tour. The initiative aimed to provide education on agricultural issues while visiting farm operations.
The goal of Florida Agri-Women (FAW) is to work together as a collective voice to promote the industry and keep the future of Florida agriculture sustainable. The one-day educational tour stopped at various farms in the Everglades Agricultural Area in South Florida to see some of the state’s crops, learn from growers and researchers, and network with other women in agriculture.
FAW members and guests heard from Gregg Nuessly with the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences on the research that continues to shape the Florida industry before visiting a lettuce field and a sugar mill. Some saw Lake Okeechobee, Florida’s largest freshwater lake, for the first time.
“We have an important story to tell,” said FAW President Ruth Jensen. “Those who work in agriculture have seen firsthand the hard work put into producing food for the country. Our women’s group is important because we keep each other informed as issues arise and policies are being made.”
Attendees also had a chance to interact with leading producers in the area, including: Marie Bedner, Bedner’s Farm Fresh Market; David Goodlett, Sugar Cane Growers Cooperative; Daniel Cavazos, Florida Crystals Corp.; and Stephen, Ethan and Myles Basore, TKM Bengard.
Source: Ag News Center