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New Study Discovers Human Interaction May Reduce Calves’ Stress During Important Life Stage by STELLA CANFIELD, UF/IFAS correspondent  In a new study published in the journal JDS Communications, scientists at the University of Florida have discovered that human interaction with calves helps to reduce abnormal oral behaviors and increase rest during early life. As part

Frostproof Grower Trades Citrus for Avocados by TERESA SCHIFFER photos by MICHAEL WILSON Mitch McLellan is determined to blaze a trail out of the quagmire of doom that has beset Central Florida growers thanks to the unending ravages of citrus greening. He holds as his beacon of hope another crop – avocado. Avocados require warm

From Migrant Workers to Farm Owners: Castro Family Is Proof of the American Dream by  RYAN MILEJCZAK  Herman Castro has spent all his life working in agriculture. Born in Guatemala and raised in Mexico, he spent years working in sugarcane fields before coming to the United States. Over the years, he worked in orange and

Autonomous Electric Monarch Tractor Brings the Latest Advancements to the Fields by PAUL CATALA Growers recently got a glimpse of the latest in farm equipment technology during a demonstration of what is billed as the world’s first fully electric, driver-optional, AI-connected tractor. In early May, Monarch held a demonstration of its MK-V tractor at Polkdale

Hurricanes Made This Year’s Harvest a Trying Time for Some Growers by PAUL CATALADuring the past two years, Florida’s blueberry harvests weren’t great, but they weren’tnecessarily bad either. About 21 million to 21.5 million pounds were harvested from the2021 and 2022 seasons on Florida’s approximately 5,500 acres of blueberry farmland.But for the 2023 season, from

by TERESA SCHIFFER Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida When it comes to summer soirees with family and friends, there are few hors d’oeuvres as refreshing as a platter piled high with pieces of fruit from Florida. Served fresh from the fridge, the juicy bites of watermelon and chilled grapes are always a tasty

American National CattleWomen Foundation Names Peyton Chandley as 1 of 2 Scholarship Recipients by JULIE GMITTER Peyton Chandley is no stranger to the ag industry, and now she’s getting an unexpected  boost that brings her even closer to her career goals thanks to the American National CattleWomen Foundation. Each year, the foundation offers two $1,000

by TERESA SCHIFFER Sponsored by Farm Credit of Central Florida What goes great with long summer days in sunny Central Florida? Cool, refreshing watermelon, of course! The popular fruit is the perfect choice for hot weather snacking because it’s 90 percent water, meaning it’s a sweet treat that keeps you hydrated. Watermelon in Florida Florida

April 29, 2023 | Quail Creek Sporting Ranch, Okeechobee