TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson recently announced the completion of major updates to nine existing agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) manuals, which provide specific, research-based practices to producers to improve water quality, along with the introduction of a new BMP manual for small farms and specialty livestock. These updates mark the first comprehensive revisions in nearly 20 years for some manuals, reflecting advancements in agricultural science, water quality research and on-the-ground practices.
“Florida’s farmers, ranchers, and growers are the original stewards of our land and water resources, and these updates ensure they have the latest, most effective tools to continue producing the safe, affordable, and abundant food supply we all rely on,” said Commissioner Simpson. “These Best Management Practices manuals, updated in partnership with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida, and industry partners, provide real solutions that benefit both Florida’s natural resources and our agricultural economy.”
“I commend Commissioner Simpson for the completion of updating all the agricultural BMP manuals. It was a huge undertaking and essential to Florida agriculture,” said Scott Angle, the University of Florida’s senior vice president for agriculture and natural resources and leader of the UF Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS). “Sound science is a foundation of Florida farmers’ success. They rely on research that demonstrates what works in the field, in the grove and on the ranch. Commissioner Simpson is to be lauded for focusing on evidence-based agricultural practices that provide guidance on how farmers can best achieve water quality goals and support their livelihoods.”
What Others Are Saying
“Through the application of BMPs, we’re protecting and conserving Florida’s groundwater and creating landscapes that thrive,” said Phillip Hisey, a licensed irrigation and landscape professional and 2024-25 president of the Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association (FNGLA). “BMPs are a promise to the future—ensuring that our landscapes are sustainable and our natural resources are preserved. We are grateful to FDACS and UF|IFAS for working with the industry to develop these effective and practical guidelines.”
“BMPs help equip me and my team with tools and knowledge to implement research-based practices that conserve water, improve nutrient management and safeguard Florida’s natural resources. I appreciate Commissioner Simpson and the teams at FDACS and UF|IFAS for working to implement feasible, effective strategies to continue stewarding Florida lands,” said Michelle Williams, operations manager for G&F Farms.
BMP Definition
Under Florida law, BMPs are defined as the most effective and practical means to improve water quality in agricultural and urban discharges. These practices are developed by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ (FDACS) Office of Agricultural Water Policy (OAWP) in coordination with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, the University of Florida Institute for Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS), and industry experts.
BMPs help agricultural producers improve water quality while maintaining productivity and economic viability.
The updated BMP manuals are available on the FDACS website, where producers can access the latest guidelines and resources. For more information, visit FDACS.gov.
For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.