A negative Coggins test is required to travel out of state and at most equine facilities, but do you know what the Coggins test is screens? A Coggins test is simple blood test that screens for EIA antibodies only present in an infected animal. To learn more about the Coggins test and tips on how to prevent exposure visit the Central Florida AgNews website and read the article written by Dr. Katie Hennessy, “What is a Coggins Test?”
Florida currently ranks 13th nationwide in cattle production and is predominately a cow-calf state. Production practices are based on what works for each producer and vary across the industry. Selection for end-product traits is necessary to meet the needs of consumers, but beef producers have to find a balance to make the cow-calf industry sustainable while satisfying various consumer preferences. The Beef Improvement Federation published the...
The USDA New Farmers website offers resources for youth to discover exciting science and technology job opportunities in agriculture. There are many different innovative ways to grow food and fiber, and modern farming is full of opportunities for agriculture and science to meet. Innovations at Work in Agriculture is a resource that shares research information, the history of science in agriculture, and how technology is used on farms today....
Rayonier land managers and technical analysts share how they use drones to gain a new perspective in forestry operations. The "Flying Foresters: Meet Rayonier's Drone Pilots" article features multiple drone pilots who are continuously preparing for what's next and working to stay on top of future technological advances. Visit the Rayonier article to learn more:
The USDA shares information on practicing good biosecurity to reduce the risk of infection and spreading disease to poultry. The Defend the Flock education program provides resources to help those who handle poultry follow proper biosecurity practices. Visit the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service Website to learn more! Basics of biosecurity and best practices Know the signs of illness How you can prepare for and prevent disease...
The Brooksville Plant Materials Center is working on research to build soil health for Florida farmers and ranchers. The practice of no-till farming and using cover crops is a national movement that reduces the use of fertilizer and pesticides. The USDA National Resources Conservation Service Florida features a News Release on soil health research at the center in Brooksville. Visit the News Release article to learn more: Study Helps Florida...
Florida is home to nearly 1,000 certified aquaculture farms who grow over 1,500 aquatic crops using a variety of production systems. To learn more about Florida Aquaculture read the Florida Farm & Family article written by Cathy Lockman, "Florida Aquaculture Teaches the Art of Raising Fish." Florida Aquaculture Teaches the Art of Raising Fish - Florida Farm & Family (floridafarmfamily.com)
As the cost of fertilizer, animal feed, and fuel continue to rise many cow/calf producers are searching for ways to increase revenue to off-set the rising costs. Agriculture and Natural Resources UF IFAS extension agent Mark Mauldin in Washington County has developed a series that shares ways to increase revenue in cow/calf operations. Upcoming articles include Sire Selection - Using genetics to Increase Revenue and Maximizing Revenue Through...
2021 has been a better year for Florida Blueberry Growers. Some growers credit the rebound to the use of agricultural technological innovations and mechanized harvesters. Florida growers share how the use of harvesting technology has allowed for more Florida blueberries to reach more U.S. markets this growing season in the article “2021 Harvest Up 4.9 Million Pounds From Last Year,” written by Paul Catala posted by Central Florida Ag News...
Florida commercial strawberry growers report an increase in fungal disease outbreaks. Neopestalotiopsis, also referred to as Pestalotpsis, is a fungal pathogen that has been present throughout the years, but reports indicate cases have increased in Florida strawberry production in recent years. The fungus causes poor establishment and stunting after transplanting, eventually causing the fruit to rot. To learn more about the fungus that is...
