News

Almost everything we do at UF/IFAS contributes to keeping working lands working. We do it with a laser focus on keeping you profitable. The combined threats of rising input costs, volatile markets, extreme weather and pests can threaten farmers’ bottom lines and make it more economically attractive to…

As Jacksonville continues to expand, surrounding rural communities face growing pressure to develop agricultural land. Located less than an hour from Jacksonville’s metropolis, Baker County’s cultural and economic identity is rooted in generations of working lands.  [caption id="attachment_27137" align="alignleft" width="300"] South Prong Plantation in Baker County.[/caption] South…

The Florida Farm Bureau Disaster Relief Fund for Agriculture was created for those interested in contributing to farmers and ranchers who have suffered significant agricultural losses or expenses as a result of weather-related events and other natural disasters. Donations can be made via check or online through the Disaster…

Farmers and ranchers across Florida met with Congresswoman Kat Cammack (FL-03) on Feb. 13 to discuss the upcoming Farm Bill. The Congresswoman held three listening sessions throughout the state to discuss key priorities, listen to concerns, and collect feedback from farmers.   The listening sessions began in Alachua and concluded in Clewiston, with one stop in Lake Wales. The sessions…

Florida Farm Bureau has commented on the recent Farm Bill markups that were released on February 13. Florida Farm Bureau Federation appreciates Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson and the House Agriculture Committee for advancing the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. America’s farmers and ranchers have been operating under…

In episode 35 of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith sits down with Trevor Williams, host of the Farm Traveler podcast and YouTube channel, to discuss how digital tools are transforming the relationship between farmers and consumers and the…

More than 100 million people will tune in to watch the biggest football game on television on February 8. While key team players and football fans alike will travel from all over the country to one city for this big event, the most crucial players in the game are…

Florida Farm Bureau has commented on the freezing temperatures that farmers, ranchers and growers are experiencing across the state. “The recent and continuing cold weather events have challenged Florida’s farmers at a critical time during the growing season. Damage is still being assessed, but we know it is significant. “Florida…

Florida Farm Bureau distributed a total of $47,346 to fund meaningful, hands-on agricultural learning experiences in the 2025-26 school year through its Classroom Mini-Grant program.  Florida Farm Bureau county leaders and Women’s Leadership Committee members delivered 194 mini-grant checks to 168 schools across Florida-- the largest amount of mini-grants awarded in a single year.  The Mini-Grant program was created to help teachers build awareness in…

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) currently has two grant programs accepting applications, from January 13, 2026, until March 27, 2026, for forestry operations. The objective of the Enhancing Gulf Waters Forestry Landowner Incentive Program is to increase the acreage of healthy pine ecosystems in…

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced it is seeking nominations for individuals willing to serve on the Farm, Ranch, and Rural Communities Federal Advisory Committee (FRRCC).   The FRRCC serves as an advisory board that addresses specific topics of relevance to agriculture as identified by the EPA Administrator. These topics cover…

Maybe you’ve heard piecemeal about incentives available to keep your farm a farm. Commissioner Simpson is the loudest and proudest champion for conserving ag land through the Rural and Family Lands Protection Program. There are federal programs that fund agricultural conservation easements, too. In a few places,…