The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has launched the application process for the second class of its Blueberry Leadership Program that elevates up-and-coming leaders in the blueberry industry. The program will accept up to 10 professionals from across the supply chain to become the second group of fellows in the program. The training, which is the first of its kind in the …
Drought Monitor: Dry Conditions Remain in Parts of Southeast
Much-needed rainfall helped alleviate some of the drought present in some parts of Florida, specifically along the Florida Panhandle and in Southeast Florida, according to the latest release of the U.S. Drought Monitor. However, drought-like conditions persist in most areas of the state. An extreme drought is still present in counties along the west coast of the state, starting as …
USHBC Launches Second Class of Blueberry Leadership Program to Empower Future Leaders
FOLSOM, Calif. — The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC) has launched the application process for the second class of its Blueberry Leadership Program that elevates up-and-coming leaders in the blueberry industry. The program will accept up to 10 professionals from across the supply chain to become the second group of fellows in the program. The training, which is the first …
Peaked Interest: Christmas Tree Production Increasing in Alabama
By Clint Thompson Christmas tree sales have spiked in recent years across Alabama. It has piqued the interest of growers hoping to start their own Christmas tree farm. Jeremy Pickens, Alabama Assistant Extension professor in horticulture at Auburn University, discussed the recent trend of producers wanting to get into the industry. “I’d say the interest from people wanting to do …
Georgia Blueberry Producer Pleads for Federal Assistance
By Clint Thompson Georgia’s blueberry farmers have their share of seasonal challenges. Some federal assistance is needed if growers are going to remain sustainable. Russ Goodman, a Georgia blueberry grower and state representative, communicated those pleas of assistance to AgNet Media prior to the recent Farm Bill listening session in Newberry, Florida. “We just need protection from unfair trade, and …
Alabama Extension Expert Encourages Vegetable Growers to Scout for Armyworms
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. – Alabama Cooperative Extension entomologists are reporting a drastic increase in armyworm moth numbers. Vegetable producers should be scouting regularly. There are four armyworm species commonly seen in Alabama: Southern armyworms, beet armyworms, fall armyworms and yellowstriped armyworms. Ayanava Majumdar, an Alabama Extension entomologist, said populations of Southern armyworms are growing, and beet armyworm infestations are likely …
Growing Matters: BeSure! Campaign Helps Protect Pollinators This Spring
Spring is a vital time for protecting pollinators. and the BeSure! campaign from the Growing Matters Coalition helps growers keep these important insects protected. The coalition says when choosing crop protection tools, both effectiveness and potential impact on the environment must be considered. Protecting bees and other wildlife is a major part of good stewardship practices and is why Growing Matters launched BeSure!, an …
Growing Matters: BeSure! Campaign Helps Protect Pollinators This Spring
Spring is a vital time for protecting pollinators, and the BeSure! campaign from the Growing Matters Coalition helps growers keep these important insects protected. The coalition says when choosing crop protection tools, both effectiveness and potential impact on the environment must be considered. Protecting bees and other wildlife is a major part of good stewardship practices and is why Growing Matters launched BeSure!, an …
Growers Needed for Georgia Citrus Commission Board
Growers interested in serving on the board of the Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Citrus should send in their nominations by May 26. The newly established Georgia Citrus Commission seeks five farmers who will serve on the board. Qualified growers must have a minimum of 5 acres of trees and will commit to serving a 3-year term with the option …
Downy Mildew Disease Confirmed in North Florida Watermelons
By Clint Thompson Downy mildew disease has been confirmed in North Florida watermelons. South Georgia and South Alabama watermelon producers should be wary since the disease can spread easily by the high winds being experienced this week. “With the way the winds have been blowing here recently I think we’re in a situation where it’s relatively high risk throughout the …