The January issue of Specialty Crop Industry Magazine profiles corn producer Karla Thompson. She is an advocate for all farmers and discusses the challenges that accompany being a producer in today’s agricultural landscape. Thompson also highlights the importance of continuing to educate consumers about food production.
Florida’s sweet corn production got off to a shaky start this season following Hurricane Ian’s impact in September. Plantings were delayed about two weeks, but volumes caught up quickly.
AgNet Media’s Frank Giles attended the University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences Everglades Research and Education Center sweet corn program in December. He reports on what was discussed.
Imports continue to threaten the long-term sustainability of specialty crop producers, especially in Georgia and Florida. U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai acknowledges a problem exists with rising imports, not by opening an investigation, but by establishing an advisory panel as a response to export targeting. The Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association and Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association respond to the latest development.
Also, the Southeast Strawberry Expo was held in Asheville, North Carolina in November. It provided a chance for farmers to learn from each other and help grow an important industry in the state.