2021 Citrus Achievement Award winner Larry Black of Peace River Packing Co. is optimistic about what’s ahead for Florida citrus.
Photo by Frank Giles
This the final installment of four special Q&A features with Larry Black, the 2021 Florida Grower Citrus Achievement Award winner. He is VP and General Manager of Ft. Meade, FL-based Peace River Packing Co.
Do you have a fond memory or story about growing citrus?
BLACK: I planted my first grove after graduating college in 1997 in partnership with my parents. We planted ‘Murcotts’ near Lake Henry in Fort Meade. Developing the grove was a lot of fun, and the grove performed well over the years. We replanted the grove to Valencia in 2019 after HLB took a toll on the ‘Murcott’ variety.
I have enjoyed several great partner-ships growing citrus. In addition to my family, friends Corby Myers and Jason Rogers are great partners. It is rewarding to share the various industry challenges and optimism for the future.
Why do you believe in Florida citrus and its future?
BLACK: Florida citrus has a bright future and will continue to be a major economic driver for the State of Florida. The industry is currently in a very difficult period of contraction. Research will continue to deliver new tools that will make growers more efficient with increased yields and ultimately lower per-unit pro-duction costs.
Orange juice and fresh citrus are quality products that consumers demand. Each of the major production areas in the world share the challenges of HLB. Long-term pricing for citrus will be strong, with the usual temporary imbalances that create volatility.
Florida is well positioned with our ideal growing conditions, committed growers, strong brands, and proximity to the U.S. market. As growers lower costs through increased yields, margins will improve, and there will be strong motivation to expand production.
Listen Up!
Want to hear more about what Larry Black has to say about Florida citrus? Check out our recent interview with him for the We Believe in Florida Citrus Podcast series.
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