Farmers in the Everglades Agricultural Area (EAA) are once again exceeding federal phosphorus reduction goals through their ongoing commitment to protecting Florida’s water resources. The South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) announced that EAA farmers achieved a 65% reduction in phosphorus levels during Water Year 2026 (May…
In this episode of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith is joined by Matt Caldwell, president of the Florida State Parks Foundation, Lee County Property Appraiser, owner of timber and cattle operations and former member of the Florida House of Representatives. Drawing on his…
Nearly 400 young farmers, ranchers and women in agriculture from across the state gathered at Florida Farm Bureau’s FUSION Conference July 10-12 in Orlando. The event brought together agriculture enthusiasts for leadership development and hands-on learning opportunities aimed at strengthening the future of Florida agriculture. Attendees participated in local farm…
In this episode of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith…
The Fiscal Year 2026-27 budget marks a historic year for Florida agriculture and working lands conservation. Through the leadership of the Florida Legislature, Commissioner Wilton Simpson and agricultural advocates across the state, Florida secured major investments in land conservation, water resource protection, agricultural research, food security and rural communities. The…
The Fulfords of Monticello have forged a path to sustainability for four generations. While producing the green peanuts for boiling for which they’re renowned, they have stewarded their land with an eye toward protecting it for generations to come. They have enlisted UF/IFAS scientists each step of the way.
Families planning a Fourth of July cookout to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday will continue to find high prices at the grocery store, based on the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Summer Cookout Cost Survey. This year, the cost of an Independence Day cookout in Florida will be $84.36 for 10 guests. At $8.44 per person,…
“Florida Farm Bureau Federation appreciates the Trump Administration for recognizing the extraordinary challenges facing America’s farmers and ranchers and for including critical agricultural assistance in its supplemental funding request to Congress.” said President of Florida Farm Bureau Federation, Jeb S. Smith. “Florida’s farmers have endured significant economic pressures in recent…
The invasive Pasture Mealybug has recently been detected in Florida, raising concerns for pasture, hay, turfgrass and sugarcane producers. Pasture Mealybugs feed on plant sap, stressing grasses and causing symptoms that resemble drought or nutrient deficiency, including leaf yellowing, red or purple discoloration, stunting, poor root growth, and dieback.
Summer break can leave children without access to regular, healthy meals. Many Florida Farm Bureau farmers and ranchers help fill the gap by providing nutritious food to children statewide through the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Summer Food Service Programs. One…
The American Farm Bureau’s Women’s Leadership Committee, with support from JBS and CoBank, has unveiled a new study intended to guide industry programming dedicated to women in agriculture for the next five years. Women play a vital role in American agriculture—contributing through production, advocacy, education and entrepreneurship, while…
In episode 39 of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith is joined by LaDonna LaValle, District 3 Women’s Leadership Committee Chair for Florida Farm Bureau, to share how her family’s story of recovery after devastating hurricanes hit their farm, why communication matters…
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