Farmers in western Palm Beach County have exceeded water quality standards by cutting harmful nutrients in field runoff by 59%. This is more than double what is required by law. To learn more about the Florida Everglades Forever Act and how the farmers have been able to consistently exceed requirements visit The Palm Beach Post website and read the article, "Palm Beach County farmers exceed water quality requirements by more than double,"...
Precision and automation in agriculture can minimize the overall amount of spray used in groves and orchards. Tim Hammerich explains how this technology helps Florida citrus growers in his Farm of the Future Report. Visit the Ag Information Network website to download, read, or listen to the reports. Bringing Precision and Automation to Agriculture - AG INFORMATION NETWORK OF THE WEST
The Florida Farm Bureau's CARES program recognizes Florida farmers and ranchers who implement Best Management Practices with a This Farm Cares award. Recipients of this award are committed to protecting Florida's environment and natural resources. To learn more visit the Farm Bureau website and read the article, "Florida Farmers are Protecting Natural Resources and Diverse Ecosystems," written by Cacee Hilliard. Florida Farmers are Protecting...
Agriculture provides food, clothing, and shelter, all of which are critical to society. However, agriculture is often cited as one of the largest emitters of greenhouse gasses. Improving grazing land management, increasing forage production and soil carbon stocks, and manure management may offer new opportunities for agriculture to play an important role in climate change mitigation. Scientists are currently working to better understand and...
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....
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...
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...
