Southeast

FFVA comments on rising farm labor rates

Noting expected hikes in Florida farm labor rates, the Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association is weighing in on how growers are being affected by rising labor costs. Last week, the U.S. Department of Agriculture released... more »

UF AI center to push boundaries of ag research

The scientist called the grower with a proposition: Let me fly a drone over your grove and you’ll be able to see how many trees you have, and even the size of individual canopies. Alex... more »

Florida Tomato Institute grapples with pests

Despite some low crop years, Florida tomato growers are returning to normal production. A continuing concern, however, is protecting the crop from pests. At the Florida Tomato Institute on Sept. 7 in LaBelle, Florida, growers... more »

Fourth generation to lead Lipman Family Farms

Elyse Lipman, representing the fourth generation at Lipman Family Farms, is succeeding Kent Shoemaker as CEO of the tomato grower-shipper. Shoemaker led the company for 13 years, according to a news release, and Elyse Lipman... more »

AI center at UF will guide tech-driven agriculture

The University of Florida’s Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) is building a 19,000-square foot artificial intelligence hub, as technology driven by AI increasingly is used to protect crop yields and the environment. The... more »

Advisory panel to look at Mexican exports to the U.S.

U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai is not pursuing an investigation into claims that Mexico was “export targeting” Florida farmers, but said she will “pursue avenues” to assist southeastern U.S. produce growers. The U.S. Trade Representative’s... more »

New report estimates Hurricane Ian damage

Hurricane Ian caused up to $1.8 billion in losses to Florida agriculture production and infrastructure, according to an Oct. 24 report from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). While the damage estimate... more »

Florida tomatoes to harvest despite Hurricane Ian damage

Even though Hurricane Ian caused some damage, the Sunshine State’s growers want buyers to know they will be harvesting and shipping tomatoes during the winter. “Florida’s November tomato crop will be smaller than normal due... more »