By Clint Thompson The H-2A temporary agricultural workers program is a “old and outdated system.” Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association (FFVA) President Mike Joyner argues it is a “broken” system in need of immediate repair. “I think first and foremost we struggle to get any domestic workers to work on the farm. We rely so heavily on the H-2A program. …
Syngenta’s Kathy Eichlin, Robin Thomas Receive Honorary American FFA Degrees
Syngenta leaders recognized for exceptional service to agriculture GREENSBORO, N.C. – The National FFA Organization (FFA) awarded Kathy Eichlin, head of Internal Communications for Syngenta Crop Protection in North America, and Robin Thomas, Early Talent Acquisition manager for Syngenta in North America, Honorary American FFA Degrees at the 94th National FFA Convention and Expo on Oct. 29 in Indianapolis, Indiana. …
Current and Future Citrus BMPs Getting a Closer Look
Learn why growers are concerned with new guidance on phosphorus.
Hemp Applications: Alabama Extension Says Growers Fill Out Soon as Possible
By Clint Thompson The sooner the better for Alabama producers wishing to fill out a hemp grower application for the 2022 season. Katelyn Kesheimer, Auburn University Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist, talks about why farmers should not delay in getting their applications done as soon as possible. “The earlier you get it in, the earlier the Department of Ag can …
Farm Bill Planning: Natural Disasters, Mechanization Part of FFB Agenda
By Clint Thompson It is never too early to start thinking about the upcoming Farm Bill if you are a vegetable or specialty crop producer. John Walt Boatright, director of National Affairs at Florida Farm Bureau Federation (FFBF), describes the process and the necessary steps in preparing for a Farm Bill still two years away. “It’s a process that requires …
Organic Corner: Do’s and Don’ts of Using Hubbard Squash Trap Crop
By Ayanava Majumdar, Olivia Fuller, David Lawrence and Jacob Kelley Have you faced the full onslaught of squash bugs and been frustrated with dead squash plants? Have you battled cucumber beetles and squash vine borers on your farm? If you answered “yes” to one of these questions and are looking for sustainable integrated pest management practices, then it is time …
Comments Needed: OSHA Developing Workplace Heat Standard
By Clint Thompson According to the Federal Register, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is initiating rulemaking to protect indoor and outdoor workers from hazardous heat. But they are soliciting additional information about the extent and nature of hazardous heat in the workplace and nature of effectiveness of interventions and controls used to prevent heat-related injury and illness. This …
Turf Breeding: UGA, UF Collaborate to Develop Better, Tougher Turf
By Maria M. Lameiras, Kirsten Romaguera for CAES News When the University of Georgia (UGA) Bulldogs take the field against the University of Florida (UF) Gators for their annual football game on Saturday, the teams will be playing in neutral territory at TIAA Bank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. But the grass they are playing on could be considered home turf …
Spotlight: Setting Strawberries up for Success
By Jeff Cook Growing quality plasticulture strawberries begins with an understanding of your soil and proper fertilization of the crop. Start with a Soil Sample A soil sample should be taken a minimum of two months prior to fumigation and bed formation. This is critical to be sure you have enough time to adjust the pH up to between 6.0 …
Don’t leave your success to chance: Place your bet on a solid crop protection strategy
Specialty crop growers are high-stakes gamblers. Despite meticulous planning and vast experience, any grower can succumb to factors out of their control. Every season, you put everything on the line, taking a chance on a crop to make a profit — or lose it all. Like any gambler, you aim to stack the deck to ensure you’re not leaving success up to chance. Shan Brooks, Atticus director, Florida & specialty markets/products, is no stranger to the risks you take season after season. “Growers of specialty …