Frank Watts of Jacksonville dedicated his life to helping people understand the importance of the ground beneath their feet. Through decades of leadership and scientific contributions, he helped shape how Florida studies, maps and values its soils, a legacy that will continue to enrich the state for generations to come. Raised on a six-acre farm in western Kentucky,…
Firebreaks are one of the most effective ways to protect your ranch from wildfires, according to Sarasota cattle rancher and disaster response veteran Chuck Johnston. “If I had any one tool that I’d tell ranchers, make sure your firebreaks are in good shape so you can be proactive rather…
Nine farmers and ranchers were honored for their environmental stewardship with a County Alliance for Responsible Environmental Stewardship (CARES) award on May 7 at the UF/IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center- Suwannee Valley during the 25th Annual Suwannee CARES Celebration. Families recognized have demonstrated sustainability practices…
In episode 38 of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith sits down with Dr. Nathan Palardy, a UF/IFAS assistant professor in the Food and Resource Economics department and Extension economist, to explore agricultural conservation easements in Florida. Listen to the episode to learn more about why conservation easements matter, how easements work and the programs available to help farmers and ranchers…
Mental health challenges affect people of all ages and backgrounds, in rural and urban communities alike. However, there is no shortage of people who care and are ready to help. From financial stress and natural disasters to long, isolating hours and uncertainty about the future, the pressures of…
Florida residents should prepare for a below-normal 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) National Weather Service. [caption id="attachment_27270" align="alignleft" width="300"] Cone Graphic image courtesy of the National Hurricane Center[/caption] In addition to a below-normal hurricane season,…
Youth agricultural education is a core priority for each of Florida’s 60 county Farm Bureaus. Agricultural educators play a vital role in planting the seeds of knowledge that shape future leaders and informed consumers. One meaningful way educators connect students to Florida agriculture is through county Ag Ventures. These hands-on learning events introduce students to the people, practices and products that power Florida agriculture. Each year, county Farm Bureaus partner…
In episode 37 of the Rural Recharge podcast, Florida Farm Bureau President Jeb S. Smith sits down with …
More than 4 in 10 Florida farmers are at least 65 years old. Collecting Social Security is not the future of Florida farming. We’ve got an aging workforce challenge on our hands. UF/IFAS can’t make you younger (give us a few more years to work…
Taylor County native LaDonna LaValle was one of 12 farm and ranch women leaders that graduated from the spring session of Women’s Communications Boot Camp hosted by the American Farm Bureau Federation. These women completed an intensive four-day course that featured hands-on sessions focused on public speaking, working…
Volunteer leadership is central to Florida Farm Bureau’s grassroots structure. This National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, we celebrate the individuals who generously give their time and talents to support Florida agriculture and their communities. Our volunteers’ impact is amplified across a variety of programs and groups within Florida Farm…
An overwhelming majority of America’s farmers who responded to a nationwide survey say they cannot afford to purchase enough fertilizer to get them through the year. The percentage who pre-purchased fertilizer varies significantly by region. Conducted by the American Farm Bureau Federation April 3-11, the survey shows 70% of respondents…
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