Florida a Powerhouse for Horticulture, Landscape Industries by REBEKAH PIERCE Have you ever taken the time to appreciate the lush greenery and vibrant colors that adorn Florida’s landscapes and gardens? If you have, then you’ve probably unknowingly admired the work of Florida’s horticulture industry. This sector, which includes nurseries, landscapers, and greenhouses, generates more than […]
Polk County Youth Fair Just Weeks Away by PAUL CATALAphotos by TOM HAGERTY (2023) The gates to the 2024 Polk County Youth Fair swing open soon with just a few minor changes in store for its 77th year. There have been some alterations to some of the livestock judging events and shows, but otherwise it
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by KATI LAWSON, UF/IFAS Extension Highlands County Small, shaky hands charged by excitement worked to display crafts and products before customers started to enter the 4-H Kids Business Fair in December. 4-H members practiced their good manners, customer greetings, and change-counting skills with 4-H leaders and parents as they prepared to open the doors to
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(Figure 1) What appears to be a healthy row of trees is most likely infected with HLB but is not showingsigns yet. Keeping trees healthy long-term takes diligent care. Photo by David Austin Where Has All the Citrus Gone? Understanding Greening and the Future of Citrus by DAVID AUSTIN, UF/IFAS Extension Highlands County It is
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Smart Landscaping Choices Can Help Save Water While Still Keeping Your Lawn Lush by RYAN MILEJCZAK photos by JESSICA MCDONALD Water is one of the most precious resources we have. But with ever increasing growth and development here in Florida, our natural water resources are more strained than ever. Due to this, organizations throughout the
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Program Trains Veterans in Ag Industries to Ease Transition to Civilian Life by PAUL CATALA For the program’s participants, it’s the chance to lay down their weapons and pick up their shovels. Through the Veterans Florida Agriculture Program, thousands of military veterans have trained, learned the ropes, and become successful farmers, cattle ranchers, citrus growers
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Reflections From the National FFA Convention by SARAH TRUE, Polk County Farm Bureau Last month, the 96th National FFA Convention and Expo was held in Indianapolis, Indiana. As an FFA member, I was privileged enough to attend and compete at the National FFA convention for multiple years in a row. This year, I had the
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New Project Keeps Cattle on Ranch, Helps Protect Environment story and photos by BRAD BUCK, UF/IFAS For decades, Jim Strickland has managed and operated Blackbeard’s Ranch in Myakka City. As much as he cares about his cattle, he sees himself as an environmental steward. Strickland, 68, has been in the cattle business since he was
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Polk County’s Jason Watts of Florida Best Farms Named Florida Farm Bureau’s 2024 Farmer of the Year by REBEKAH PIERCE Polk County Farmer Jason Watts of Florida Best Farms in Haines City has been named the Florida Farm Bureau’s 2024 Farmer of the Year in recognition of his exceptional skills and achievements in agriculture. This
