08/25/2016
Stay up to date: Zika Virus
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the National Institute
for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) are monitoring the Zika virus outbreak
spreading through Central and South America, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean,
including U.S. territories. For the most up-to-date information, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Zika website frequently. Some U.S. states
have mosquitoes that can become infected with and spread Zika virus, and travel associated
Zika virus infections in U.S. states may result in local spread of the virus.
Visit the CDC Areas with Zika website to learn where there is current transmission.
Helpful links can be found here:
Helpful links can be found here:
11/16/2015
Recommended Service: Ecolectric Company
We are a full service electrical contractor that
also specializes in low voltage technology integration and renewable energy
such as solar photovoltaic power. We have more than 30 years of expertise
in the industry with a great deal of experience working with Financial
Institutions. Besides banking, we service other major industries such as
car dealerships, supermarkets, manufacturing and retail. Please visit our web
site at www.ecolectric.us so
you can learn more about Ecolectric. In addition to servicing clients, it
is Ecolectric’s culture to encourage our personnel and associates to volunteer
within the community.
It would be our distinct pleasure and honor to
be considered as a preferred vendor by your company. Rest assured, you will be
satisfied by our high level of customer service and quality workmanship.
11/16/2015
Commissioner Putnam Appoints Steve
Dwinell as Director of Office of Agricultural Water Policy
TALLAHASSEE,
Fla. – Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam
announced today that he has appointed Steve Dwinell to serve as the Director of
the Office of Agricultural Water Policy within the Florida Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services.
“Steve
is a proven leader who will serve Floridians well in his capacity as the
Director of the Office of Agricultural Water Policy,” stated Commissioner of
Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
Steve
began his career as an Extension Agent in Hamilton County before moving to the
Department of Environmental Protection to work in the Bureau of Groundwater
Protection. He joined the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer
Services more than 20 years ago as an Environmental Administrator, and he has
served as the Assistant Director of the Division of Agricultural Environmental
Services since 2000. Steve earned a master’s degree in Agricultural Entomology
from the University of Florida.
10/22/2015
10/22/2015
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL AND CONSUMER SERVICES
State makes gains against fruit flies in South Florida
By Margie Menzel
News Service of Florida
TALLAHASSEE — Florida is on the way to eradicating the largest outbreak of Oriental fruit flies in the state's history, an agriculture official told a Senate panel Tuesday.
Since Aug. 26, a record 165 of the voracious insects have been found in part of Miami-Dade County that is mainly agricultural land, with an estimated 2,000 growers, nurseries and other businesses affected.
The state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has responded with a series of measures --- including aerial spraying earlier this month --- designed to quell the threat before it further affects Florida's $1.6 billion agriculture industry.
"This came at a very bad time, in a very bad place — but we're on it," Trevor Smith, the department's director of plant industry, told the Senate Agriculture Committee. "We're all over it."
A quarantine is in effect for 98 square miles in Miami-Dade's Redland area, where growers and other businesses had signed 1,300 compliance agreements by Thursday promising to destroy potentially infected crops. Additionally, they must allow state and federal agriculture officials to move in and out of the area.
Also within the quarantined area, approximately 16 square miles received an aerial spray treatment on the nights of Oct. 2 and Oct. 3. The product used was Spinosad, or GF-120, which the agriculture department noted is approved for use on organic crops and poses no threat to people, livestock or pets.
"It's very safe," Smith said. "It's organic."
In another move, the state has baited 25,000 traps for adult Asian male fruit flies.
10/1/2015
Frequently Asked Questions About Aerial Spraying
Map of Aerial Spraying
Link to Compliance Agreement
Oriental Fruit Fly Eradication Program Compliance
Agreement sign-up
OFF Homestead Extension Hours
18710 SW 288th St.
Homestead, FL 33030
305-248-3311
Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 3 to 5
Oriental Fruit Fly Eradication Program Information
Booth (Weather Permitting)
Tom Thumb Gas Station
Krome Avenue and Eureka
10 to 3 daily (weekends included)
Division of Plant Industry Helpline
Contact us Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST
1-888-397-1517 (352) 395-4600 (Outside North
America)
Recent Coverage Regarding Aerial Spraying
·
The state of Florida
plans to begin aerial spraying to combat a growing infestation of an aggressive
Asian fruit fly in southern Miami-Dade County. Beginning Friday, the state
officials plan to spray Spinosad, a common insecticide used in gardening and approved
for organic farming. The state had hoped to control the outbreak, the largest
ever recorded in Florida, by trapping male flies. But with the number of
captured flies climbing to 161 and a quarantine zone expanding to 97-square
miles, officials decided deploy their strongest weapon. “I am committed to
using every weapon in the arsenal to protect agriculture in Miami-Dade County,”
Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam said in a statement that was careful to
point out that Spinosad is also used in pet applications. (Miami
Herald, Bradenton
Herald)
·
Officials plan to combat
an infestation of the Asian fruit fly by spraying a portion of Miami-Dade
County with Spinosad. The number of captured flies has risen to 161 with a
quarantine zone expanding to 97-square-miles. So, beginning Friday, state
officials say they'll douse the area with the common insecticide used in
gardening approved for organic farming. (WTVJ)
9/30/2015
Message From FFB President, John Hoblick
September
29, 2015
Dear
Farm Bureau Leaders,
This
morning I received the letter below from Assistant Commissioner of Agriculture
Mike Joyner concerning the Oriental fruit fly infestation in Miami-Dade County.
State and federal officials will soon announce the beginning of an aerial
spraying program to control the pest.
The
letter outlines the program and provides additional sources of information you
can use in communicating with citizens in your communities.
We
will be closely monitoring this agricultural emergency and appreciate the swift
action by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. We all
pray that the eradication effort will be successful.
Sincerely,
John
L. Hoblick
President
9/29/2015
Oriental Fruit Fly Update:
Aerial Spraying to Take Place October 2, 2015
The Florida Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services (FDACS) has deemed it necessary to begin aerial spray
treatment to prevent further spread of and devastation caused by the Oriental
fruit fly. Aerial spray treatment will begin on Friday, October 2, weather
permitting. The spray will be applied aerially overnight. If rain or wind
conditions are not conducive to the treatment, the aerial spray treatment will
be postponed.
The insecticide to be
applied is Spinosad, also known as GF-120. It is approved for organic use and
is a common ingredient in garden products and veterinary medicines routinely
prescribed to pets. Spinosad poses no hazard to people, pets, farm animals or
wildlife. FDACS is working to notify individuals who are registered as
“chemically sensitive” with the U.S. Department of Health. FDACS will also
notify beekeepers and will assist them to take measures to ensure the safety of
their bees. The spray may leave a sticky residue on homes and cars, which can
be removed with water.
Fly Count
Total count to date: 161
Date of first find: Aug. 26, 2015
Date of Last Find: 09/28/2015
Estimated end date of quarantine: 02/05/2016 (provided there are no additional finds)
Did Quarantine Area Change? Yes. The quarantine area has been expanded by approximately 12 square miles.
Did Core Area Change? Yes, the core area has expanded.
Are There Changes to the Pre-Harvest Option? Yes. If a property is within a ½ mile arc around the new find, only post-harvest treatments are available.
Updated maps, including an interactive map, are available on the oriental fruit fly web page at www. http://www.freshfromflorida.com/orientalfruitfly
Division of Plant
Industry Helpline
Monday - Friday, 8
a.m. - 5 p.m. EST
1-888-397-1517
9/22/2015
Oriental Fruit Fly Update
Please see yesterday's (9/21/15) update below.
People may now sign-up for daily email updates on the main Oriental Fruit Fly page by clicking here:
Sign Up for Daily Updates Here
Fly Count:
9/20/15 Finds: 0
Total count to date: 159
Date of first find: Aug. 26, 2015
Estimated end date of quarantine: 01/20/2016 (*provided there are no additional finds)
Did Quarantine Area Change: No
The following are comment for the Incident Commanders:
• The FDCAS DPI OFF website now includes a webpage with information on the Redland OFF Program in Spanish.
Program in Spanish
Current Quarantine Map: Current Quarantine Map
Access a Compliance Agreement here: http://forms.freshfromflorida.com/08468.pdf
View a copy of the declaration . For more information, visitFreshFromFlorida.com, or call 1-888-397-1517.
###
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- About 1.52 million people worked full- or part-time in Florida’s agriculture, natural resources and food industries in 2013, an 8.7 percent increase in jobs over 2012, according to a new UF/IFAS economic report.
Oriental Fruit Fly Regulated Area Established in Redland Area, Miami-Dade County
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responding to the discovery of Oriental fruit flies in the Redland area of Miami-Dade County. As a result, a regulated area is in effect. Within this regulated area residents and businesses are asked to help stop the Oriental fruit fly by restricting the movement of host commodities. Regulatory information is provided below to assist business with compliance.
Regulatory
Compliance Agreement Cooperative Oriental Fruit Fly Eradication Program
Host Lists
Oriental Fruit Fly Host List - by Common Name
Oriental Fruit Fly Host List - by Botanical Name
Maps
Program Map
Treatment Area Map
Quarantine Area Map and Description
Quarantine Area Treatment Options
Please note that land within the core mile area around positive finds is not eligible for the 30-day pre-harvest treatment options. However, they are eligible for post-harvest treatments. Please confirm that treatment is designated forBactrocera dorsalis (Oriental fruit fly) and your specific crop species.
30 Day Pre-Harvest Treatment
Organic Option
Naturalyte GF-120 Fruit Fly Bait Specimen Label
Conventional Option
Gowan Malathion 8 Flowable Agricultural Insecticide
Miller Nu-Lure Insect Bait
Post Harvest Treatment
USDA Treatment Manual
Division of Plant Industry
Superintendent of Everglades National Park
July 28, 2015
July 23, 2015
Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015
July 21, 2015
The Florida Chamber’s Distinguished Advocate award recognizes lawmakers who championed key Florida Business Agenda legislation. This award goes to legislators who fought tirelessly for the passage of pro-jobs legislation – no matter how difficult – and furthered the Florida Chamber’s goals of securing Florida’s future through job creation and economic development.
Representative Edwards championed the protection of the rights of private property owners from unreasonable government restrictions and unconstitutional burdens, while also protecting the financial investments of property owners. This Florida Chamber-backed measure will also allow property owners the ability to collect damages and have increased flexibility to reach a settlement for those owners directly impacted by unconstitutional exactions.
“I am proud to stand with the Florida Chamber to advocate on behalf of Floridians and their rights as property owners,” said Representative Katie Edwards.
The Florida Chamber also released its annual publication How They Voted – which provides the grades for all 160 legislators so business leaders can see who voted for or against a competitive Florida, as well as what Florida Business Agenda issues did or didn’t pass this year. The full list of the Florida Chamber’s 2015 Distinguished Advocates can be found here.
For Information on SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Click Here!
July 20, 2015
July 14, 2015
Sales Tax Exemptions
Florida’s farmers and ranchers can take advantage of one of Farm Bureau’s legislative victories from the 2015 legislative session. A broad tax cut package, HB 33A passed the legislature during last month’s special session and was signed by Governor Scott on June 16. This package included a substantial cut for agriculture.
Starting today, Florida’s farmers and ranchers can begin saving what is estimated to be more than $13 million in state and local taxes each year.
Here is a breakdown of what is now exempt from sales tax and the estimated annual state sales tax savings:
The Department of Revenue has issued three Tax Information Publications that provide details about these new exemptions and the certificates needed to obtain the exemptions. You can access these here:
Exemption for Farm Trailers Weighing 12,000 Pounds or Less
Qualifying Power Farm Equipment Exemption Expanded to Include Replacement Parts, Accessories, Repairs, and Power Farm Equipment Used Through the Storage Phase of Production
Sales of Stakes Used to Support Plants During Agricultural Production
Tropical Fruit Growers Forum—Longan
When: Thursday, July 9, 2015; 4:30 PM to 5:45 PM
Where: The Agricultural Extension Center
18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL 33030
Cost: Free of charge
This is the first of what we expect to be a monthly open forum hosted by The Tropical Fruit Growers of South Florida and the Miami-Dade County Extension Office.
This month’s topic will be the longan: production, pruning, fertilizing, and any other general tropical fruit topics participants wish to speak about.
RSVPs are requested but not required, please RSVP with Jeff Wasielewski at: jwasielewski@ufl.edu or 305-248-3311, ext. 227.
First Detector Training: July 16th
Will cover several potential invasive pests from foreign imported plants or that could attack your crops in South Florida. Palm weevils, Bargrada bug, Slugs and snails, Sugarcane mosaic virus, Fusarium wilt of queen palm and CITEs (exports permit)
When: Thursday, July 16th from 9 am until 3 pm (Lunch included with registration)
Where: University of Florida Extension in Miami-Dade County.
18710 SW 288th St. Homestead, FL 33030
FDCAS category CEU’s will be granted for pesticide applicator’s renewal.
Registration link: Online Registration HERE
Growers can take a UF/IFAS online course NOW!
Register for thenew online UF/ IFAS Extension course “Greenhouse 101: Plant Science for Commercial Production”. The course is designed for nursery/greenhouse staff in the US and internationally who do not have formal training in horticulture. The typical participant is a section grower who has practical experience and is responsible for planting, spraying, pinching, irrigating and fertilizing ornamental crops in containers.
For more information in English or Spanish open the flyer attached. Flyer online course for growers
Use this link here and in the attached flyer for registration. Click HERE or copy and paste the following link
https://reg.distance.ufl.edu/reg/Activity/Details/0F72C3E43A7D42B783BBC0B8DE27C
June 10, 2015
June 10, 2015
Board of Directors
AG patrol report – Lt. Fernandez
Ag manager Report – C. LaPradd
Secretary’s Report – L. King, approval of May
meeting minutes
Meetings & Conferences – J. Crane
5 Facts You Should Know About the Role Trade Plays on America’s Farms and Ranches
Posted by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack,
Cross-posted from the White House blog:
Today, farmers, ranchers, and rural communities are more prosperous thanks to strong trade agreements. Foreign markets contribute to more than half of total sales for many American agricultural products. The last six years have been the strongest in history for agricultural exports, and agricultural exports now support more than 1 million good-paying American jobs. Without the expanded trade that came with past trade agreements, the agricultural economy and the American economy as a whole would not be as strong as it is today.
But new trade agreements are only possible if our negotiators can speak with one voice to negotiate free and fair trade deals. Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) — now being considered in Congress — allows them to do just that.
Here’s what’s at stake. The world is becoming even more competitive — opportunities and power are taken out of the hands of hardworking American farmers and put into the hands of their competitors. That is why the President is negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which will further open Asia-Pacific markets for American agricultural products.
It’s time for Congress to stand up for American businesses, communities, and families, rural and urban alike, and pass TPA legislation.
Here are five reasons why trade is important for the U.S. agricultural industry:
America’s farmers and ranchers are among the most productive in the world, but they depend on exports, which generate approximately 20 percent of their farm income.
U.S. agricultural exports to countries where the United States has free trade agreements (FTAs) increased more than 155 percent, from nearly $25 billion to more than $60 billion between 2003 and 2014.
U.S. agricultural exports were more than $150 billion in 2014, up more than 4 percent from 2013.
Overseas sales of agricultural products supported more than 1 million full-time American jobs, both on and off the farm in 2013.
Every dollar of agricultural exports stimulated another $1.22 in business activity in 2013.
You can get the full factsheet breaking down the important role trade plays in supporting America’s farmers and ranchers.
- See more at: http://blogs.usda.gov/2015/06/04/5-facts-you-should-know-about-the-role-trade-plays-on-americas-farms-and-ranches/#sthash.ZmLZj7qO.dpuf
Ag Sales Tax
Exemptions Included in House Tax Cut Package
On Tuesday, the House Finance and Tax Committee heard and passed HB 33A, a scaled-back version of the “No Tax is Safe” tax cut package that passed the House during regular session. This legislation is scheduled to be debated today on the House floor and is poised to pass the full House.
In an effort to free up more dollars to cover the shortfall created by less health care funding in the budget, the House package is now a $436.5 million tax cut package, compared to the original savings of $690 million during regular session.
The good news is after the House removed $250 million in tax cuts from the package, the $13 million in agricultural sales tax exemptions remained in full. If passed, this legislation will:
Lawmakers
Expected to Conference Over the Weekend
This week, the House and Senate passed identical versions of the budget each chamber passed during the regular session. However, with a number from the federal government on how much the state can expect from the LIP program, the two chambers are now in position to begin the conference process.
After passing their respective budgets, Speaker Crisafulli and President Gardiner released budget allocations and appointed conferees today, opening up the opportunity for representatives from the House and Senate to conference on the budget over the weekend. According to President Gardiner, budget conference is scheduled to begin Saturday morning at 9 a.m. This budget conference is an important step forward, as lawmakers did not come close to the ability to conference on the budget during the regular session due to the large fiscal gap between the two chambers’ budgets and the political brick wall that existed between the House’s stance against Medicaid expansion and the Senate’s insistence to draw down Medicaid dollars from the federal government to help negotiate additional LIP dollars to help hospitals care for the uninsured.
Florida Farm Bureau will be watching the budget conference closely as we will be laser focused on making sure that UF/IFAS and FDACS receive their budget requests to help serve the farm families and that appropriate dollars allocated to Amendment 1 are not spent on buying more land the state can’t manage. We look forward to funding dedicated to manage existing lands and complete important water and environmental projects to help restore and protect Florida’s natural resources.
Important FSA Deadlines
May 31, 2015 Deadline to file FSA 578 Manual Acreage Report. Farm Service Agency policy requires that producers participating in several programs submit a annual report regarding all cropland use on their farms.
June 1st, 2015 Deadline to file FSA form AD-1026 - certifies compliance with the highly erodible land conservation and wetland conservation provisions. All farmers and nursery men who have crop insurance must file. Failure to file this form can result in loss of the subsidy to your premium.
Contact FSA Miami-Dade office at 305-242-1197, Ext. 109 or CLICK HERE to locate other offices
http://forms.sc.egov.usda.gov/efcommon/eFileServices/eForms/AD1026.PDF
Krome Ave South TownHall Meeting
hosted by Dade County Farm Bureau, Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade and Representative Holly Raschein
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Miami Dade Cooperative Extension Building
18710 SW 288th Street Homestead, FL 33030
Dade County Farm Bureau in conjunction with the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade and Representative Holly Raschein invite you to a Town Hall Meeting concerning the FDOT- District Six State Road (SR) 997/Krome Ave project from SW 184th Street to SW 136th Street
For more details please call 305-246-5514 or email Debbie Brady atdebbie.brady@ffbic.com.
Agriculture classification Application Deadlines for 2015
The office of the Property Appraiser will be accepting Late Agriculture applications for 2015 until 25 days after the proposed tax bill is sent. You must be owner of record of the property as of January 1st, 2015 to be able to apply. Alternatively, the lessee of property may apply if the lease, or an affidavit executed by owner, provides that the lessee is empowered to apply for the agricultural classification on behalf of the owner of record. A copy of the relevant lease agreement or affidavit must accompany the application in order for it to be treated as a valid and complete application.
For more information visit http://www.miamidade.gov/pa/
April 2, 2015
Ornamental Plant Disease in Spanish (Manejo de plagas en plantas ornamentales en Español!)
April 1, 2015
Join us for our BBQ and Fundraiser April 25, 2015. Tickets are $50 a person! Call 305-246-5514 for tickets
March 13, 2015
January 22, 2015
10th Annual Women in Agriculture Luncheon
RSVP by February 2, 2015
January 22, 2015
(MIAMI, January 21, 2015) –Join the 52nd Annual Agricultural Farm Tour on Thursday, February 5, at 8 a.m. and help fund scholarships for students interested in agriculture.
The tour will begin in the heart of Homestead at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center (Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension) at 18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL, 33030.
Every year the tour visits different farming operations to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of farming in South Florida’s subtropical climate. This year participants will visit a vegetable farm, an ornamental greenhouse nursery, an ornamental fish operation and a new lime grove.
During the tour there will be a special luncheon at the Redland Golf and Country Club honoring two distinguished farming pioneers: the Martens family and Norman Ray Barrow.
Interested participants should call Lize Luna at 305-248-3311 ext. 242 or Patty Viera at ext. 225 to pre-register for the tour. The cost for the tour and luncheon is $50. The cost for the luncheon only is $30. Pre-registration and payments may be done online at: http://www.dadecountyagricouncil.org/events---ag-tour.html
The 2015 Ag Tour will be hosted by Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Service, Miami-Dade County’s Agricultural Manager, the Dade County AGRI-Council, Dade County Farm Bureau and Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association.
For more information, visit the University of Florida IFAS/Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension website and check their calendar of events or call the County’s Extension Office at 305-248-3311.
January 21, 2015
People may now sign-up for daily email updates on the main Oriental Fruit Fly page by clicking here:
Sign Up for Daily Updates Here
Fly Count:
9/20/15 Finds: 0
Total count to date: 159
Date of first find: Aug. 26, 2015
Estimated end date of quarantine: 01/20/2016 (*provided there are no additional finds)
Did Quarantine Area Change: No
The following are comment for the Incident Commanders:
• The FDCAS DPI OFF website now includes a webpage with information on the Redland OFF Program in Spanish.
Program in Spanish
Access a Compliance Agreement here: http://forms.freshfromflorida.com/08468.pdf
9/21/2015
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,
along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is continuing efforts to
eradicate the Oriental Fruit Fly in Miami-Dade County.
Please see today’s (9/19/15)
update below.
People may now sign-up for daily email updates on the main
Oriental Fruit Fly page by clicking her: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Pests-Diseases/Exotic-Fruit-Flies/Oriental-Fruit-Fly-Information/Stay-current-on-Oriental-Fruit-Fly-Eradication-Efforts
Fly Count:
9/18/15 Finds: 1
Total count to date: 159
Date of first find: Aug. 26, 2015
Estimated end date of quarantine: 01/18/2016 (*provided
there are no additional finds)
Did Quarantine Area Change: No
Current Quarantine Map: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/content/download/62633/1423830/OFF_REDLAND_COMBINED_TREATMENT_QUARANTINE_AND_SURVEY_ZONES_8X11.pdf
Access a Compliance Agreement here: http://forms.freshfromflorida.com/08468.pdf
Highlights from OFF Program:
•
Following the single fly detection on September 8, 2015, there have been no
additional OFF detections in the Miami delimitation/additional trapping
area. With seven consecutive days of no additional fly finds following
the complete deployment of the additional traps, the Program will go to weekly
monitoring in the Miami delimitation area.
•
Program personnel worked with the FDACS Office of Agricultural Enforcement
overnight to prohibit fruit being moved illegally from the Redland quarantine
area.
Upcoming Events:
Commissioner Putnam understands how crucial the eradication
efforts are to those in the agriculture industry. He invites you to attend an
Agriculture Industry Town Hall event. This event is being hosted in
collaboration with the Miami-Dade Extension Office and the USDA.
Details are below:
WHO:
Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam
WHAT:
Agriculture Industry Town Hall
WHERE:
Miami-Dade County Extension Office, located at 18710 SW 288 St., Homestead,
Fla. 33030-2309
WHEN:
Monday, Sept. 21, at 2 p.m.
Questions or Comments: Email DPIHelpline@FreshFromFlorida.com
or Call 1-888-397-1517.
9/15/2015
Commissioner
Adam Putnam Declares State of Agricultural Emergency for Oriental Fruit Fly
Infestation
MIAMI,
Fla.—Florida
Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam today declared a state of
agricultural emergency due to the Oriental Fruit Fly infestation in Miami-Dade
County. The Oriental Fruit Fly is considered one of the most serious of the
world's fruit fly pests due to its potential economic harm. It attacks more
than 430 different fruits, vegetables and nuts, including: avocado, mango,
mamey, loquat, lychee, longon, dragon fruit, guava, papaya, sapodilla, banana
and annona. The fruit flies lay their eggs in host fruits and vegetables. Since
the first detection of the Oriental Fruit Fly on Aug. 26, 2015 in Miami-Dade
County, a total of 158 flies have been detected, specifically in the Redland
area (156), Kendall (1) and Miami (1).
“The Oriental
Fruit Fly is one of the world's most destructive pests and poses a significant
threat to Florida's $123 billion agriculture industry and the two million jobs
it supports. Miami-Dade County's agriculture industry is a $1.6 billion
industry, and we will use every weapon in our arsenal that's necessary to
eradicate this pest and protect Florida agriculture and our economy,” stated
Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam.
The infestation
threatens the area's ability to produce the fruit and vegetables the nation has
grown to rely on during the winter months, the region's overall economic health
and the thousands of jobs that rely on this industry. Miami-Dade County
is the state's leader in the production of tropical vegetables, tropical fruit
and ornamental nurseries, and overall agricultural production generates more
than $1.6 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 11,000 jobs.
The department,
along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, has been aggressively working to
eradicate this pest. Efforts include:
- Assisting industry with the requirements of their
compliance agreements;
- Quarantining an 85-square-mile area around the core
areas where detections have been made in order to prevent the spread of
the fly;
- Treating a 1.5-square-mile area around each fly detection.
This treatment, which is conducted by the department, consists of
attracting male flies to bait which consists of an attractant, an
insecticide, and a thickening agent. The flies are killed when they feed
on the bait. The bait mixture is applied weekly to upper portions of
telephone and utility poles. The application will continue for at least
two life cycles of the fly after each find, which is approximately 60
days;
- Removal of fruit from host trees — while leaving the
trees — within 200 meters of a larval or mature female fruit fly find; and
- Ground spraying with GF120, a pesticide certified for
use in organic farming. Spinosad (GF-120 NF
NaturalyteTM Fruit Fly Bait) is an insecticide
that is extracted from the naturally occurring soil microbe, Saccharopolyspora spinosa. Spinosad is in common
use by organic growers and was granted a “Green Chemistry” award by the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which classifies it as “reduced
risk” because of its good environmental profile.
It is important
to note that all appropriate protocols are in place and that the fruits and
vegetables introduced into the marketplace from this area are certified for
movement and safe for consumption by the public.
View a copy of the declaration . For more information, visitFreshFromFlorida.com, or call 1-888-397-1517.
###
September 10, 2015
NEWS RELEASE
Florida’s agriculture-related
employment up 8.7 percent
Sept. 10, 2015
By: Brad Buck, 352-294-3303, bradbuck@ufl.edu
Source: Alan Hodges, 352-294-7674, awhodges@ufl.edu
GAINESVILLE, Fla. --- About 1.52 million people worked full- or part-time in Florida’s agriculture, natural resources and food industries in 2013, an 8.7 percent increase in jobs over 2012, according to a new UF/IFAS economic report.
That figure accounts for 14.3 percent of the state’s
workforce, and reflects a 19.7 percent employment increase since 2001, or just
under 1 percent annually, according to the report, led by UF/IFAS Extension
Scientist Alan Hodges.
“That’s pretty good economic growth in anybody’s book,” said
Hodges, a faculty member in food and resource economics.
Agriculture, natural resources and their related industries in
the state account for $148.5 billion in sales revenue, the report said. Regional
multiplier effects add 633,942 jobs and $83.64 billion to agriculture’s impact
on Florida’s economy.
“It’s new money from outside sources that’s circulating in
Florida’s economy,” Hodges said. The value-added impacts represent 15.4 percent
of the state’s Gross Domestic Product.
Many other industries count on agricultural and food products
and services, according to the annual report that can be found at http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fe969. The
report reflects data from 2013, the latest year for which figures are
available.
“We argue that there’s a relationship between what happens
on the farm and what happens in the food distribution system. So it makes sense
to talk about those things together,” Hodges said. “Agriculture, natural
resources and related food industries remain a significant force in the economy
of Florida, and it is important to recognize the economic contributions of
these industries to ensure informed public policy.”
At nearly $9 billion in industry output impacts, forestry
and forest product manufacturing make up the biggest commodity sector of
Florida’s agricultural economy. Next is environmental horticulture – the
nursery, greenhouse and landscaping industries – and third is fruits and
vegetables, including citrus.
“The forest products industry is pretty strongly tied to the
construction sector through demand for lumber and other building products” Hodges
said. “Housing starts is a leading indicator. Most homes are still framed with
wood.”
Forest products also lead Florida’s agricultural exports,
with $6.14 billion, according to the annual report, while fruits and vegetables
($3.72 billion) came in second and environmental horticulture ($3.54 billion)
was third.
Many people do not realize the impact of agriculture and
food industries on Florida’s economy, Hodges said.
“It’s a heck of a lot bigger than most people think,” he
said. “In terms of employment, it is actually the biggest employer in the
state.”
-30-
September 8, 2015
Miami-Dade County
Oriental Fruit Fly (OFF) Eradication Program
Program Update
·
August
17, 2015, one male OFF found in Jackson trap in a tropical almond tree in
southeast Miami-Dade County on SW 72nd Court.
·
Enhanced
trapping is being conducted in an 81-square mile area around positive find. No
additional flies found as of September 1, 2015 in this area of Miami-Dade
County.
·
August
28, 2015, OFF found in a trap in the Redland area of M-D County, 13 miles away
from the first find. Another trap located one section to the north of the
Redland find contained 45 OFF.
·
Several
other flies have been collected from traps in the area, and larvae have been
collected as well.
·
Press
release was distributed August 28, 2015.
·
A
treatment area has been designated and includes a minimum of 1.5 square miles around
the positive finds.
·
September
1, 2015, ad notifying the public of the treatment area was run in the
Miami-Herald, the El Nuevo Herald, and the online version of the Miami-Herald.
·
Florida Rule 5B-66 – State and federal agricultural
officials are mandated to keep the Oriental fruit fly out of this country. Whenever Oriental fruit flies are found in
the continental U.S., the pest mus t
be eradicated.
Control Activities
State
officials utilize an integrated pest management approach to completely
eradicate the Oriental fruit fly. Because we have adults and larvae, treatments
will include the following:
- TRAPPING: Statewide, almost 56,000 traps are routinely
- QUARANTINE: Where a quarantine is established, movement of host
material in the area is regulated to ensure infestation is not spread. The
quarantine for the Redland program will include the area which is within
4.5-miles in any direction from an infested property. Compliance
Agreements will be required.
- TREATMENT: Male Annihilation - for adult control, application
of a male lure bait is applied every two weeks, for two life cycles. This methyl eugenol bait with an inert thickening
agent and Naled insecticide is spot-applied to utility poles, tree trunks,
and fences out of the reach of children and pets. Naled (Dibrome) is a safe
organophosphate insecticide, often
- FRUIT
REMOVAL: When a confirmed larval site is
located, all ripe preferred host fruit up to 200 yards are removed and
placed in double plastic bags and properly disposed.
- USE OF STERILE
FLIES: In
situations where the
Oriental Fruit Fly
·
The Oriental fruit fly is on of the most
destructive fruit fly pests in the world.
Oriental fruit flies attack more than 230 fruit, nut and vegetable
crops, including: citrus , tomato, pepper, mango, persimmon, guava, pear,
peach, apple, fig, and many others. Complete host list included.
·
Oriental
fruit flies are pests foreign to the continental U.S. They are widespread throughout much of
southern Asia and neighboring Pacific islands.
They are established in Hawaii and have been detected and eradicated
numerous times in Florida and
southern California.
·
Oriental
fruit fly adults cannot fly more than a few miles. It is us ually
spread into new areas by people carrying infested fruit.
·
The
Oriental fruit fly could devastate agriculture.
If it becomes established in the continental U.S., it will ravage
commercial agriculture and make it difficult and expensive for you to grow
fruits, nuts, and vegetables in your backyard.
·
One
female Oriental fruit fly us ually
lays about 1,200 – 1,500 eggs in her lifetime, but may lay as many as 3,000.
·
Countries
with established Oriental fruit fly populations have typical crop losses of
25-50%. 100% losses can occur.
·
The
male attractant for Oriental fruit fly, methyl eugenol, is strongly attractive
and can lure them from over a half mile downwind. This compound is effectively us ed in baits and detections traps.
·
Females
puncture host fruits, nuts, and vegetables and lay eggs. Maggots (larvae) hatch from the eggs within 3
days under ideal conditions (78˚F and 80-85% relative humidity). Maggots feed and grow in the host, us ually caus ing
early fruit drop. Larvae leave the host
and burrow into the soil where they change into pupae. After 10-12 days, the adult fly emerges. The complete life cycle is 21-24 days during
warm months and up to 30 days or longer in cooler months.
·
The
adult fly us ually lives about 1-3
months but can survive up to 1 year in cool climates.
·
One
female Oriental fruit fly us ually
lays about 1,200-1,500 eggs in her lifetime, but may lay as many as 3,000.
What the Public Can Do
·
Oriental
fruit fly infestations can be spread by the public when they bring or mail
uninspected fruits, nuts, vegetables, or other host plants from foreign or
domestic quarantine areas to uninfested areas of the United States.
·
If
you live in or travel through an Oriental fruit fly quarantine area, please:
o
Do
not give away, mail, or accept home-grown host fruits and vegetables.
o
Do
not move potted plants grown under host plants unless they are first
inspected. Immature Oriental fruit flies
(pupae) may be hiding in the soil.
o
Do
not compost discarded host plants, fruit, or foliage; they may be infested with
Oriental fruit fly, and the composting process may not kill the pest.
o
Double-bag
and seal unwanted host fruits and vegetables and discard with your trash.
o
Cooperate
with quarantine rules and allow authorized inspectors access to your property
to check plants or traps for infestations.
FRUIT FLY COMPARISONS
·
Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera
dorsalis) is larger than the hous efly. The top of its back is black with lateral
yellow stripes. A black T-shaped mark is
on the abdomen. Leading edge of wing has
a thin dark band. Wings are not as heavily
marked as the two following species.
·
Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) is smaller than a hous efly. The top of its back is mottled with
yellowish-white and black areas. The
abdomen has two distinct white cross bands.
The base of the wing has many small dare/clear areas.
·
Caribbean fruit fly (Anastrepha sus pense) is
about the same size as the common hous efly. The body is uniformly brownish yellow in
color with a yellow stripe on its back.
The front edge of the wing is darkened except for a small clear area
half way to the tip. When the Caribbean
fruit fly invaded Florida in 1965, no eradication program was implemented. Today, many popular fruits, particularly peaches,
guava, Surinam cherry, and loquat, are ruined by Caribfly maggots.
To find out more about Fruit Fly
control, call:
Florida
Fruit Fly Help Line: 1-888-397-1517 (Toll Free)
Florida
Poison Information and Toxicology Resource Center: 1-800-282-3171
(Toll Free)
Florida
Public Health Department: 850-488-3385
Media Inquiries
All
media inquiries should be directed to:
Jenn Meale, FDACS Communications Director, (850) 617-7716 Office
Jenn.Meale@FreshFromFlorida.com
or
Aaron Keller, (850) 617-7723, Aaron.Keller@FreshFromFlorida.com
Jenn Meale, FDACS Communications Director, (850) 617-7716 Office
Jenn.Meale@FreshFromFlorida.com
or
Aaron Keller, (850) 617-7723, Aaron.Keller@FreshFromFlorida.com
September 8, 2015
***MEDIA ADVISORY***
Commissioner Putnam to Provide Update on Giant African Land
Snails in Miami-Dade County
MIAMI, Fla.–Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam will be
in Miami on Wednesday, Sept. 9, to provide an update on the giant African land
snail infestation in Miami-Dade County. The working dogs used to detect these
snails will be at a nearby site, so media can experience a demonstration.
Event:
Date:
Time:
Location:
|
Giant
African land snail press event
Wednesday, Sept. 9
10:30 a.m.
Morningside Park
750 NE 55th Terrace
Miami,
Fla. 33137
|
For more
information about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services,
visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
###
September 4, 2015
Oriental Fruit Fly Regulated Area Established in Redland Area, Miami-Dade County
The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is responding to the discovery of Oriental fruit flies in the Redland area of Miami-Dade County. As a result, a regulated area is in effect. Within this regulated area residents and businesses are asked to help stop the Oriental fruit fly by restricting the movement of host commodities. Regulatory information is provided below to assist business with compliance.
Regulatory
Compliance Agreement Cooperative Oriental Fruit Fly Eradication Program
Host Lists
Oriental Fruit Fly Host List - by Common Name
Oriental Fruit Fly Host List - by Botanical Name
Maps
Program Map
Treatment Area Map
Quarantine Area Map and Description
Quarantine Area Treatment Options
Please note that land within the core mile area around positive finds is not eligible for the 30-day pre-harvest treatment options. However, they are eligible for post-harvest treatments. Please confirm that treatment is designated forBactrocera dorsalis (Oriental fruit fly) and your specific crop species.
30 Day Pre-Harvest Treatment
Organic Option
Naturalyte GF-120 Fruit Fly Bait Specimen Label
Conventional Option
Gowan Malathion 8 Flowable Agricultural Insecticide
Miller Nu-Lure Insect Bait
Post Harvest Treatment
USDA Treatment Manual
September 1, 2015
Oriental Fruit Fly Eradication Program
Redland Area, Miami-Dade County
Growers Information Meetings
Staff from the
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will participate in
meetings with packers and growers to discuss details associated with the recent
discovery of an infestation of Oriental fruit flies in the Redland area of
Miami-Dade County. Meetings are being hosted by the University of Florida,
Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences. There will be two meetings –
the same information will be provided at both meetings.
Growers Meetings
Thursday,
September 3, 2015
9:00
a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
and
2:00
p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
UF/IFAS
Miami-Dade County Extension Auditorium
18710
SW 288th Street
Homestead,
FL 33030-2309
(305)
248-3311
Contact:
Teresa Olczyk, Director
Items to be
discussed will include:
ü Eradication
program update
ü Control
options
ü Compliance
Agreements
(c://ext/prog/2015/fruit fly 2015 growers.doc)
August 31, 2015
Oriental Fruit Fly
Update
As of 08/30/2015
To date we collected 93 male Oriental Fruit Flies on 17
properties in unincorporated Miami-Dade county since August 26. We have added more traps in an 81 square mile
area surrounding the positive finds. Added
trap array extends from S.W. 104 St. to
the NORTH, S.W. 280 St. to the SOUTH,
S.W. 147 Ave. to the EAST and beyond S.W. 217 Ave to the WEST. There is a 1.5 mile buffer around the
positive parcels. The buffer stretches S.W 152 St. to the
NORTH, S.W. 224 St. to the SOUTH, S.W> 177 Ave. to the EAST and S.W. 217 Ave
to the WEST.
Message From Superintendent of Everglades National Park
Pedro M. Ramos
Everglades National Park
announces the release of its final General Management Plan / East Everglades
Wilderness Study / Environmental Impact Statement (GMP/EEWS). I want to express
my sincere gratitude for your interest and support in the development of this
plan. It is the culmination of a great deal of time, energy, and input from
members of the public, other agencies, many organizations, our tribal
neighbors, and the National Park Service (NPS). This final GMP/EEWS provides
broad guidance for decisions about natural and cultural resource protection,
appropriate types and levels of visitor activities, and facility development
within the park. Its purpose is to articulate the park's mission, and define
the resource conditions and visitor experiences that should be achieved and
maintained over time.
During development of the plan
the National Park Service conducted extensive civic engagement to identify the
issues and concerns to be addressed in the plan. More than 100 public, elected
officials, agency, tribal, and stakeholder group meetings were held, and more
than 15,000 comments were received on the draft GMP/EEWS alone.
Comments on the draft GMP/EEWS
conveyed substantial support for protection of the park's natural and cultural
resources, wilderness values, and enhancements to the visitor experiences. Key
changes to the preferred alternative reflected in the final GMP/EEWS include:
(1) refinements to Florida Bay zoning to provide more accurate resource-based
zones, covering more than 140,000 acres, that protect ecological and wilderness
values while providing appropriate access to key destinations and across the
bay; (2) refinements to the East Everglades Addition frontcountry and
backcountry zoning and wilderness proposal to further support ecosystem
restoration, resource protection and a wide range of recreation opportunities;
(3) on the new 120-mile Everglades Paddling Trail (called the Alternative
Wilderness Waterway in the draft plan), zoning was modified to provide
peak-season opportunities for enhanced paddling experiences while recognizing
the traditional recreational uses of the park's western backcountry; and (4)
opening the Joe Bay area to public use for the first time in over 30 years,
allowing for paddling and catch-and-release fishing.
The final NPS preferred
alternative proposes an addition to the park's Marjory Stoneman Douglas
Wilderness of 85,300 acres in the 109,600-acre East Everglades Addition. This
includes 42,200 acres as proposed wilderness and 43,100 acres as potential
wilderness.
Communication and coordination
with the public and many organizations will continue to be critical to
successful plan implementation. The park looks forward to working cooperatively
with partner agencies, especially the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation
Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the National Marine Fisheries
Service; our tribal neighbors; and the numerous individuals and organizations
committed to advancing the important initiatives described in the plan.
The final GMP/EEWS including
the features of the preferred alternative can be downloaded at: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/evergmp. A limited number of CD
copies and printed copies are available at park headquarters at 40001 State
Road 9336, Homestead, FL 33034. For additional information about this plan
please contact Fred Herling, supervisory park planner at Fred_Herling@nps.gov or
call 305.242.7704.
Following publication of the
notice of availability of this document in the Federal Register there will be a
30-day waiting period before the Record of Decision can be signed, concluding
the EIS process.
Your input was instrumental in
the planning process. The National Park Service values the public's interest in
Everglades National Park, and we look forward to implementing the plan with
your support and collaboration.
Sincerely,
Superintendent of Everglades National Park
Pedro M. Ramos
August 28, 2015
| ||||||||||
|
July 28, 2015
Governor Rick Scott
Appoints Sam Accursio to South Florida Water Management District
TALLAHASSEE,
Fla. – Today,
Governor Rick Scott announced the appointment of Sam Accursio to the South
Florida Water Management District.
Accursio,
52, of Homestead, is the owner of Sam S. Accursio & Sons Farms. He
currently serves as the vice chair of the Agriculture Practices Advisory Board
and a member of the First National Bank of South Florida Board of Directors. He
succeeds Juan Portuondo and is appointed for a term beginning July 28, 2015,
and ending March 1, 2019.
The
appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.
July 28, 2015
Miami-Dade
County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez to host Budget Town Hall Meetings throughout the
community
Miami-Dade
County Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez will host a series of Budget Town Hall Meetings
in August where residents will have the opportunity to ask questions and
provide input on the FY 2015-16 Proposed Budget.
In addition,
Mayor Gimenez will host two Social Media Budget Town Halls on Thursday, August
20. There will be a Facebook Town Hall at noon, followed by a Twitter chat at
2:00 p.m.
July 23, 2015
Statement by Bob Stallman, President, American Farm Bureau Federation, Regarding H.R. 1599, the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015
WASHINGTON, D.C., July 23, 2015 – “Congress stood with farmers and ranchers today in supporting innovation that helps the environment and keeps food prices down for everyone. The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act of 2015 would protect consumers from confusing and misleading GMO labels and create a national, voluntary labeling standard based on science and common sense.
“The American Farm Bureau Federation supports all farmers and ranchers and opposes anyone who stands in the way of safe, affordable food. Consumers benefit from variety in the marketplace and should be free to make choices based on facts. The facts are that many farmers are growing more food with fewer resources, reducing their environmental impact, and keeping costs down—all thanks to advances in biotechnology.
“Farm Bureau applauds Representatives Mike Pompeo (R-Kan.) and G.K. Butterfield (D-N.C.) for introducing this legislation, as well as House Agriculture Committee Chairman Mike Conaway (R-Texas) and Ranking Member Collin Peterson (D-Minn.), for their leadership in moving the bill forward, and thanks the House for their overwhelming bipartisan support.”
July 21, 2015
July 21, 2015
Florida
Chamber Honors Rep. Katie Edwards with
Distinguished
Advocate Award
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.
(July 13, 2015)
– Today, the Florida Chamber of
Commerce announced Representative Katie Edwards (D- Sunrise) is one of 23 legislators honored with a 2015 Florida
Chamber Distinguished Advocate award.
“Representative Katie Edwards
led the effort to protect the private property rights of Floridians,” said
David Hart, Executive Vice President of the Florida Chamber of Commerce. “We
are proud to honor Representative Katie Edwards with a 2015 Distinguished
Advocate Award”The Florida Chamber’s Distinguished Advocate award recognizes lawmakers who championed key Florida Business Agenda legislation. This award goes to legislators who fought tirelessly for the passage of pro-jobs legislation – no matter how difficult – and furthered the Florida Chamber’s goals of securing Florida’s future through job creation and economic development.
Representative Edwards championed the protection of the rights of private property owners from unreasonable government restrictions and unconstitutional burdens, while also protecting the financial investments of property owners. This Florida Chamber-backed measure will also allow property owners the ability to collect damages and have increased flexibility to reach a settlement for those owners directly impacted by unconstitutional exactions.
“I am proud to stand with the Florida Chamber to advocate on behalf of Floridians and their rights as property owners,” said Representative Katie Edwards.
The Florida Chamber also released its annual publication How They Voted – which provides the grades for all 160 legislators so business leaders can see who voted for or against a competitive Florida, as well as what Florida Business Agenda issues did or didn’t pass this year. The full list of the Florida Chamber’s 2015 Distinguished Advocates can be found here.
###
July 20, 2015
For Information on SBA Disaster Loan Assistance Click Here!
July 20, 2015
07/15/2015
01:21 PM EDT
USDA Designates 2 Counties in
Florida as Primary Natural Disaster Areas
WASHINGTON, July 15, 2015 — The
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has designated Broward and Miami-Dade
counties in Florida as primary natural disaster areas due to damages and losses
caused by a recent drought.
“Our hearts go out to those
Florida farmers and ranchers affected by recent natural disasters,” said
Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “President Obama and I are committed to
ensuring that agriculture remains a bright spot in our nation’s economy by
sustaining the successes of America’s farmers, ranchers, and rural communities
through these difficult times. We’re also telling Florida producers that USDA
stands with you and your communities when severe weather and natural disasters
threaten to disrupt your livelihood.”
Farmers and ranchers in Collier,
Hendry, Monroe and Palm Beach counties in Florida also qualify for
natural disaster assistance because their counties are contiguous.
All counties listed above were
designated natural disaster areas on July 15, 2015, making all qualified farm
operators in the designated areas eligible for low interest emergency (EM)
loans from USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), provided eligibility requirements
are met. Farmers in eligible counties have eight months from the date of the
declaration to apply for loans to help cover part of their actual losses. FSA
will consider each loan application on its own merits, taking into account the
extent of losses, security available and repayment ability. FSA has a variety
of programs, in addition to the EM loan program, to help eligible farmers
recover from adversity.
Additional programs available
to assist farmers and ranchers include the Emergency Conservation Program, The Livestock Forage Disaster Program, the Livestock Indemnity Program, the Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised
Fish Program, and the Tree Assistance Program. Interested farmers may
contact their local USDA Service Centers for further information on eligibility
requirements and application procedures for these and other programs.
Additional information is also available online at http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov.
FSA news releases are available
on FSA’s website at www.fsa.usda.gov via the “Newsroom” link.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider and
employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the
Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence
Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer
Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice
users).
July 14, 2015
“Fresh From Florida” Products in Record Number of Stores
Worldwide
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Adam
H. Putnam announced today that the “Fresh From Florida” retail program, which
markets Florida agricultural products, has reached a new record of 12,357
retail stores in 26 countries carrying “Fresh From Florida” products. More than
4,000 of the participating retailers are outside of the United States. In 2014,
Florida agricultural exports totaled $4.2 billion.
“Florida’s hardworking
farmers, growers, ranchers and fishermen produce some of the highest quality
products in the world,” Commissioner of Agriculture Adam H. Putnam said.
“Today those products are being promoted through the ‘Fresh From Florida’ brand
in 12,357 retail locations in 26 countries around the world.”
Top international
partners by store count:
1.
Canada –
1,824 stores
2.
Scandinavia – 724
stores
3.
South Korea – 507
stores
4.
United Kingdom – 320
Stores
5.
Japan – 276
stores
The 12,357 retail
locations promote more than 40 different types of fresh fruits, vegetables,
citrus and other products. From blueberries in Japan to grapefruit in
Denmark and dozens of commodities in Canada and the U.S., the program strives
to help Florida’s more than 47,000 farmers sell their products. Over the
lifetime of the program, now finishing its sixteenth year, this is the highest
number of store outlets ever included.
The retail campaign
includes three major promotional areas: Florida and the Southeastern U.S., the
Northeastern and Midwestern states, and all other areas outside of the
continental U.S.
For more information
about the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FreshFromFlorida.com.
July 8, 2015
Sales Tax Exemptions
Florida’s farmers and ranchers can take advantage of one of Farm Bureau’s legislative victories from the 2015 legislative session. A broad tax cut package, HB 33A passed the legislature during last month’s special session and was signed by Governor Scott on June 16. This package included a substantial cut for agriculture.
Starting today, Florida’s farmers and ranchers can begin saving what is estimated to be more than $13 million in state and local taxes each year.
Here is a breakdown of what is now exempt from sales tax and the estimated annual state sales tax savings:
Irrigation parts and repairs—$2.4 million
Parts and repairs for power farm equipment—$6.7 million
Equipment used to store raw products on the farm after harvest—$0.2 million
Farm trailers weighing less than 12,000 pounds—$1.3 million
Stakes used in plant production—$0.6 million
Exemption for Farm Trailers Weighing 12,000 Pounds or Less
Qualifying Power Farm Equipment Exemption Expanded to Include Replacement Parts, Accessories, Repairs, and Power Farm Equipment Used Through the Storage Phase of Production
Sales of Stakes Used to Support Plants During Agricultural Production
Tropical Fruit Growers Forum—Longan
When: Thursday, July 9, 2015; 4:30 PM to 5:45 PM
Where: The Agricultural Extension Center
18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL 33030
Cost: Free of charge
This is the first of what we expect to be a monthly open forum hosted by The Tropical Fruit Growers of South Florida and the Miami-Dade County Extension Office.
This month’s topic will be the longan: production, pruning, fertilizing, and any other general tropical fruit topics participants wish to speak about.
RSVPs are requested but not required, please RSVP with Jeff Wasielewski at: jwasielewski@ufl.edu or 305-248-3311, ext. 227.
First Detector Training: July 16th
Will cover several potential invasive pests from foreign imported plants or that could attack your crops in South Florida. Palm weevils, Bargrada bug, Slugs and snails, Sugarcane mosaic virus, Fusarium wilt of queen palm and CITEs (exports permit)
When: Thursday, July 16th from 9 am until 3 pm (Lunch included with registration)
Where: University of Florida Extension in Miami-Dade County.
18710 SW 288th St. Homestead, FL 33030
FDCAS category CEU’s will be granted for pesticide applicator’s renewal.
Registration link: Online Registration HERE
Growers can take a UF/IFAS online course NOW!
Register for thenew online UF/ IFAS Extension course “Greenhouse 101: Plant Science for Commercial Production”. The course is designed for nursery/greenhouse staff in the US and internationally who do not have formal training in horticulture. The typical participant is a section grower who has practical experience and is responsible for planting, spraying, pinching, irrigating and fertilizing ornamental crops in containers.
For more information in English or Spanish open the flyer attached. Flyer online course for growers
Use this link here and in the attached flyer for registration. Click HERE or copy and paste the following link
https://reg.distance.ufl.edu/reg/Activity/Details/0F72C3E43A7D42B783BBC0B8DE27C
June 19, 2015
 When: Thursday, June 25, 2015; 9:00 AM to 11:30 AM Where: The Agricultural Extension Center 18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL 33030 There are a multitude of services available for Tropical Fruit Growers. Find out about services being offered (many of them free) by the USDA-NRCS, the FSA, the Farm Bureau, Miami-Dade County, and the University of Florida in this informative workshop. Registration is $12 online, and $15 at the door. There will be organic coffee and a light breakfast. You can find more information and the program here. The program will include speakers from the Farm Bureau (Debbie Brady), the Farm Service Agency (Paula Robinson and Nancy Mundo), the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service (Christine Coffin), Miami-Dade County (Charles LaPradd and Jeff Wasielewski). Chipper Safety Workshop in English and Spanish Wednesday, June 24, 2015 Miami-Dade Extension 18710 SW 288 St Homestead, FL 33030 CEUs for: FNGLA and ISA $10.00 for the day. Includes University of Florida publications, coffee, pastries CEUs applied for: ISA, FNGLA Registration through Eventbrite at: https://eventbrite.com/event/ Redland Raised Recipe of the Week Dragon Fruit and Avocado Salsa 
To scoop out the dragon fruit, take a large spoon and just run it around the edges. Since this fruit is so soft, it basically comes right out of the flesh. Cube it up, toss it with the avocado, chives, cilantro and lime juice.
Spoon the prepared salsa back into the husk and serve up with crackers or tortilla chips, in tacos, and on a burger. |
June 10, 2015
June 10, 2015
Fruit and Spice Park Upcoming Events
June 9, 2015
Tropical
Fruit Growers of South Florida, Inc.
18710
S.W. 288 Street, Homestead , FL
33030 Telephone: 305-401-1502 Fax: 305-246-2932
Website:
tropicalfruitgrowers.com Email: tropicalfruitgrowers@gmail.com
Board of Directors Meeting
June 11, 2015 4:30 PM
Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension,
18710 SW 288 St., Homestead, FL 33030
Board of Directors
AGENDA
New Business
AG patrol report – Lt. Fernandez
Ag manager Report – C. LaPradd
Secretary’s Report – L. King, approval of May
meeting minutes
Treasurer’s Report – L. King, approval of May financial
report
Commercial Growers Forum – S. Green
Ag Practices Report – D. Rodriguez
Tropical Fruit Program Update – J. Wasielewski
Summer Fruit Festival at Fruit &
Spice Park – L. King
New NAP procedures for claims – S. Green
SFWMD Local Group Seat opening – S. Green/J. Humble
Old
Business
FSA New – S. Green
2012 Specialty Crop Grant Update
– L. King
Avocado, LWD, & Red Bay Ambrosia
beetle Update – J. Crane
Pest Update – J. Crane
Meetings & Conferences – J. Crane
Last Minute Items – S. Green / L. King
The
next TFGSF board meeting will be
held on the second Thursday of the month,
Thursday, July 9, 2015 at 4:30 pm at Extension
All
members are welcome!
June 9, 2015
Agriculture Day Camp- June 11,
2015 (Bill Sadowski Park)
This
Day Camp will be held at Bill Sadowski Park. Registration for this
event is now open and will close on June 9, 2015. Please register for this
event by following the link provided: https://june2015agcamp.eventbrite.com
4-H/USDA Bug Camp – June 24,
2015 (USDA Building)
Registration
for this event is now open and will close on June 19, 2015. Please register for
this event by following the link provided: https://june2015bugcamp.eventbrite.com
Agriculture Day Camp – July 7,
2015 (Homestead Extension Office)
This Day Camp will be held at the Cooperative Extension
Office in Homestead. Registration for this event is now open and will close
on July 3, 2015. Please register for this event by following the link
provided: https://july2015agcamp.eventbrite.com
Youth
Fishing Clinic - July 21, 2015 (Biscayne National Park)
Registration for this
event is now open and will close on July 17, 2015. Please register for this
event by following the link provided: https://july2015fishingclinic.eventbrite.com
4-H/USDA Bug Camp – July 22,
2015 (USDA Building)
Registration
for this event is now open and will close on July 17, 2015. Please register for
this event by following the link provided: https://july2015bugcamp.eventbrite.com
June 8, 2015
5 Facts You Should Know About the Role Trade Plays on America’s Farms and Ranches
Posted by Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack,
Cross-posted from the White House blog:
Today, farmers, ranchers, and rural communities are more prosperous thanks to strong trade agreements. Foreign markets contribute to more than half of total sales for many American agricultural products. The last six years have been the strongest in history for agricultural exports, and agricultural exports now support more than 1 million good-paying American jobs. Without the expanded trade that came with past trade agreements, the agricultural economy and the American economy as a whole would not be as strong as it is today.
But new trade agreements are only possible if our negotiators can speak with one voice to negotiate free and fair trade deals. Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) — now being considered in Congress — allows them to do just that.
Here’s what’s at stake. The world is becoming even more competitive — opportunities and power are taken out of the hands of hardworking American farmers and put into the hands of their competitors. That is why the President is negotiating the Trans-Pacific Partnership, which will further open Asia-Pacific markets for American agricultural products.
It’s time for Congress to stand up for American businesses, communities, and families, rural and urban alike, and pass TPA legislation.
Here are five reasons why trade is important for the U.S. agricultural industry:
America’s farmers and ranchers are among the most productive in the world, but they depend on exports, which generate approximately 20 percent of their farm income.
U.S. agricultural exports to countries where the United States has free trade agreements (FTAs) increased more than 155 percent, from nearly $25 billion to more than $60 billion between 2003 and 2014.
U.S. agricultural exports were more than $150 billion in 2014, up more than 4 percent from 2013.
Overseas sales of agricultural products supported more than 1 million full-time American jobs, both on and off the farm in 2013.
Every dollar of agricultural exports stimulated another $1.22 in business activity in 2013.
You can get the full factsheet breaking down the important role trade plays in supporting America’s farmers and ranchers.
- See more at: http://blogs.usda.gov/2015/06/04/5-facts-you-should-know-about-the-role-trade-plays-on-americas-farms-and-ranches/#sthash.ZmLZj7qO.dpuf
June, 5, 2015
Ag Watch from Florida Farm Bureau
On Tuesday, the House Finance and Tax Committee heard and passed HB 33A, a scaled-back version of the “No Tax is Safe” tax cut package that passed the House during regular session. This legislation is scheduled to be debated today on the House floor and is poised to pass the full House.
In an effort to free up more dollars to cover the shortfall created by less health care funding in the budget, the House package is now a $436.5 million tax cut package, compared to the original savings of $690 million during regular session.
The good news is after the House removed $250 million in tax cuts from the package, the $13 million in agricultural sales tax exemptions remained in full. If passed, this legislation will:
- Expand the sales tax exemption for
“power farm equipment” to include replacement parts and accessories for
power farm equipment and irrigation equipment.
- Allow equipment used for the storage of
raw agricultural products on the farm to be eligible for a sales tax
exemption.
- Provide a sales tax exemption for most
trailers used in agricultural production or the transportation of farm
products to the first point of sale.
- Provide a sales tax exemption for stakes
used in agricultural production.
This week, the House and Senate passed identical versions of the budget each chamber passed during the regular session. However, with a number from the federal government on how much the state can expect from the LIP program, the two chambers are now in position to begin the conference process.
After passing their respective budgets, Speaker Crisafulli and President Gardiner released budget allocations and appointed conferees today, opening up the opportunity for representatives from the House and Senate to conference on the budget over the weekend. According to President Gardiner, budget conference is scheduled to begin Saturday morning at 9 a.m. This budget conference is an important step forward, as lawmakers did not come close to the ability to conference on the budget during the regular session due to the large fiscal gap between the two chambers’ budgets and the political brick wall that existed between the House’s stance against Medicaid expansion and the Senate’s insistence to draw down Medicaid dollars from the federal government to help negotiate additional LIP dollars to help hospitals care for the uninsured.
Florida Farm Bureau will be watching the budget conference closely as we will be laser focused on making sure that UF/IFAS and FDACS receive their budget requests to help serve the farm families and that appropriate dollars allocated to Amendment 1 are not spent on buying more land the state can’t manage. We look forward to funding dedicated to manage existing lands and complete important water and environmental projects to help restore and protect Florida’s natural resources.
May 20, 2015
Important FSA Deadlines
May 31, 2015 Deadline to file FSA 578 Manual Acreage Report. Farm Service Agency policy requires that producers participating in several programs submit a annual report regarding all cropland use on their farms.
June 1st, 2015 Deadline to file FSA form AD-1026 - certifies compliance with the highly erodible land conservation and wetland conservation provisions. All farmers and nursery men who have crop insurance must file. Failure to file this form can result in loss of the subsidy to your premium.
Contact FSA Miami-Dade office at 305-242-1197, Ext. 109 or CLICK HERE to locate other offices
http://forms.sc.egov.usda.gov/efcommon/eFileServices/eForms/AD1026.PDF
Krome Ave South TownHall Meeting
hosted by Dade County Farm Bureau, Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade and Representative Holly Raschein
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Miami Dade Cooperative Extension Building
18710 SW 288th Street Homestead, FL 33030
Dade County Farm Bureau in conjunction with the Economic Development Council of South Miami-Dade and Representative Holly Raschein invite you to a Town Hall Meeting concerning the FDOT- District Six State Road (SR) 997/Krome Ave project from SW 184th Street to SW 136th Street
For more details please call 305-246-5514 or email Debbie Brady atdebbie.brady@ffbic.com.
Agriculture classification Application Deadlines for 2015
The office of the Property Appraiser will be accepting Late Agriculture applications for 2015 until 25 days after the proposed tax bill is sent. You must be owner of record of the property as of January 1st, 2015 to be able to apply. Alternatively, the lessee of property may apply if the lease, or an affidavit executed by owner, provides that the lessee is empowered to apply for the agricultural classification on behalf of the owner of record. A copy of the relevant lease agreement or affidavit must accompany the application in order for it to be treated as a valid and complete application.
For more information visit http://www.miamidade.gov/pa/
May 19, 2015
May 01, 2015
Water Resource Advisory Commission (WRAC) - Monthly Meeting - May 2015
When: May 07, 2015, 9:00am
Where: Phichol E. Williams Community Center
951 SW 4th Street Homestead, FL 33030
Contact Information:
Tia Barnett
tbarnett@sfwmd.gov
561-682-6286
Tropical Fruit Irrigation Workshop
When: Tuesday, May 12, 2015; 10:00 AM to 12:00
Where:The Agricultural Extension Center
18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL 33030
Learn about the latest irrigation technology and types, as well as the importance of proper watering of tropical fruit. Registration is $12 online, and $15 at the door. There will be organic coffee and a light breakfast.
Register online here:
Florida Water Star program in Ft. Lauderdale.
When: May 13, 2015, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Where: Beach Community Center
3351 NE 33rd Ave Ft. Lauderdale , Fl
This program is for anyone in the landscape and irrigation profession who wants to learn more about water efficient design and installation. Here are the specifics:
Should you need continuing education credits, the following has been approved:
Board of Landscape Architecture – 7.25
FNGLA Certified Professionals – 4
Florida Water Star Accredited Professionals – 4
Irrigation Association – 4
Volusia County Irrigation License – 4.5
To register please contact 407-295-7994
April 2, 2015
DCFB BBQ and Fundraiser
April 25, 2015
4:30-11:00pm (Dinner at 6:00pm)
DiMare Annex 500 N Krome Ave, Florida City, FL 33034
Join us for the LARGEST Farm to Table experience in South Florida. Tickets are $100 per couple. Call (305) 246-5514 for tickets
DCFB Truck Raffle
Win a 2015 Chevy Colorado or $15,000 Cash!
Tickets are $100 each. VISA/MC accepted. Winner need not be present to win.
Guaranteed Odds are 1 in 550
Winner Chooses Prize!
For more information visit the Farm Bureau at 1850 Old Dixie Hwy., Homestead, Fl or call (305)246-5514. Or visit www.dade-agriculture.org
Winner must redeem prize by May 15, 2015
Miami International Ag, Cattle and Horse Show
April 11 - 12 , 2015
Tropical Park Equestrian Center
DOORS OPEN AT 9:00 AM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SUNDAY AT 10:00 AM
ADMISSION: $3 AND KIDS UNDER 12 FREE
April 25, 2015
4:30-11:00pm (Dinner at 6:00pm)
DiMare Annex 500 N Krome Ave, Florida City, FL 33034
Join us for the LARGEST Farm to Table experience in South Florida. Tickets are $100 per couple. Call (305) 246-5514 for tickets
DCFB Truck Raffle
Win a 2015 Chevy Colorado or $15,000 Cash!
Tickets are $100 each. VISA/MC accepted. Winner need not be present to win.
Guaranteed Odds are 1 in 550
Winner Chooses Prize!
For more information visit the Farm Bureau at 1850 Old Dixie Hwy., Homestead, Fl or call (305)246-5514. Or visit www.dade-agriculture.org
Winner must redeem prize by May 15, 2015
Miami International Ag, Cattle and Horse Show
April 11 - 12 , 2015
Tropical Park Equestrian Center
DOORS OPEN AT 9:00 AM FRIDAY AND SATURDAY SUNDAY AT 10:00 AM
ADMISSION: $3 AND KIDS UNDER 12 FREE
Ornamental Plant Disease in Spanish (Manejo de plagas en plantas ornamentales en Español!)
WHEN: Thursday, April 16 of 2015, from 8:50 a.m. to 12:00.m
WHERE: UF/IFAS Extension 18710 SW 288th ST. Homestead, Florida 33030
April 1, 2015
Join us for our BBQ and Fundraiser April 25, 2015. Tickets are $50 a person! Call 305-246-5514 for tickets
March 13, 2015
UF/IFAS partners with USDA to conduct grant workshop to support local foods
Extension is working with federal partners to offer a workshop in Miami in April to help interested parties write and submit federal grant applications for the Farmers Market and Local Food Promotion programs. UF/IFAS is part of a national effort to train people in attaining these grants.
Workshops are being conducted across the nation, but the Florida workshop will be from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., April 8 at the Miami-Dade County Water and Sewer Department, 3071 SW 38th Ave., Miami.
Pre-registration is not required but is strongly encouraged to ensure materials are available for all participants. Please register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/amsta-technical-assistance-program-tickets-15668841928.
University of Florida (UF)/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension and OSHA
Nursery and OSHA inspection compliance
WHEN: Thursday, March 24th of 2015 from 9 am to 12:00 pm
WHERE: University of Florida/IFAS Miami-Dade County Extension: 18710 SW 288th St. Homestead, FL 33030
Employers must train their employees on how to read GHS-formatted safety data sheets and any chemical labels.
OSHA makes this the first priority because GHS-formatted documents are making their way into U.S. workplaces and can be different from what workers are used to seeing.
By June 1st of 2015, the second deadline applies to manufacturers and distributors who must reclassify their chemicals and produce GHS-formatted safety data sheets and labels for items shipping to users.
Acreage Reporting Date for Nurseries
In order to comply with FSA program eligibility requirements, all producers are encouraged to visit the County FSA office to file an accurate crop certification report by the applicable deadline.
Nursery Deadline: May 30, 2015
Please make your appointment with FSA by calling 305-242-1197
The Fair Be There!
March 12 - April 15, 2015
The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition (also known for generations as The Youth Fair) will celebrate its 64th anniversary in 2015! The 2015 Youth Fair will open March 12 to April 5, 2015 (open daily except March 16-17 & 30-31).
January 22, 2015
10th Annual Women in Agriculture Luncheon
RSVP by February 2, 2015
January 22, 2015
52nd Annual Agricultural Farm Tour to Take Place February 5
(MIAMI, January 21, 2015) –Join the 52nd Annual Agricultural Farm Tour on Thursday, February 5, at 8 a.m. and help fund scholarships for students interested in agriculture.
The tour will begin in the heart of Homestead at the John D. Campbell Agricultural Center (Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension) at 18710 SW 288 Street, Homestead, FL, 33030.
Every year the tour visits different farming operations to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of farming in South Florida’s subtropical climate. This year participants will visit a vegetable farm, an ornamental greenhouse nursery, an ornamental fish operation and a new lime grove.
During the tour there will be a special luncheon at the Redland Golf and Country Club honoring two distinguished farming pioneers: the Martens family and Norman Ray Barrow.
Interested participants should call Lize Luna at 305-248-3311 ext. 242 or Patty Viera at ext. 225 to pre-register for the tour. The cost for the tour and luncheon is $50. The cost for the luncheon only is $30. Pre-registration and payments may be done online at: http://www.dadecountyagricouncil.org/events---ag-tour.html
The 2015 Ag Tour will be hosted by Miami-Dade Cooperative Extension Service, Miami-Dade County’s Agricultural Manager, the Dade County AGRI-Council, Dade County Farm Bureau and Florida Nursery, Growers & Landscape Association.
For more information, visit the University of Florida IFAS/Miami-Dade County Cooperative Extension website and check their calendar of events or call the County’s Extension Office at 305-248-3311.
January 21, 2015
Connect with Miami-Dade County's newest commissioner,
Email: district8@miamidade.gov
Downtown Office
305-375-5218 Phone
305-372-6073 Fax
District Office
305-378-6677 Phone
305-253-7495 Fax
