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....
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...
The emerging industry of growing microgreens influenced the University of Arkansas to create an online survey to determine food safety practices and growing techniques. A total of 176 small size farms (less than $10,000 annual revenue) participated in the survey. To learn more visit the Food Safety News article written by Jonan Pilet Survey shows larger microgreens growers exercise more food safety practices.
Growing conditions in Florida are favorable for olives. The past ten years continue to show a viable market for olive production. To learn more visit the Central Florida AgNews article written by Paul Catala, Florida Growers Court a New Alternative Crop.
Florida rancher discusses the hot topic issue of climate change and environment issues. To learn more visit the Southeast AgNet Radio Network article courtesy of the Florida Cattle Ranchers and rancher Jim Strickland, Florida Rancher Jim Strickland: Combat Climate Change Through Agriculture.
Florida grows nearly half of all fresh tomatoes produced in the US with counties like Pinellas, Hillsborough, Polk, Manatee, and Hardee have the longest growing season for fresh market tomatoes. To learn more about Florida's tomato production and the history of tomatoes in Florida, read the Farm Credit of Central Florida's sponsored article from Central Florida AgNews by Erika Aldrich, You Say Tomato, We Say Florida's Finest.
Potato growers work with retailers to keep potatoes from turning green on grocery stores shelves. Green potato skin, caused by UV light exposure, looks unattractive, it changes the flavor of the potato and can potentially be an indication of a dangerous toxin, solanine. To learn more, read the article by Carole Miller on Growing Produce, Why It's Time to Fall in Love with Potatoes.
